Kid-Friendly Boat Day Ideas: Things to Do in Austin with Kids this Summer

Make lasting memories with fun-filled lake days the whole family will love.

Looking for fun, screen-free ways to keep your kids entertained this summer? When the Texas heat is on full blast, there’s no better escape than the water. At Float On Boat Rentals, we specialize in helping families create unforgettable lake days—and we’ve got tons of kid-friendly ideas to prove it.

If you’re searching for the best things to do in Austin with kids this summer, here’s why a boat day should be at the top of your list.

1. Plan a Themed Boat Adventure

Kids love a little imagination mixed in with their lake day! Choose a fun theme to build excitement:

• Pirate Day: Bring eye patches, a treasure map, and gold-wrapped treats.

• Mermaid Party: Add bubble wands, seashell crafts, and ocean-themed snacks.

• Jungle Safari: Pack binoculars and go “wildlife watching” from the deck.

Themed days turn a typical outing into a storybook adventure on the water.

2. Bring Water Toys & Games

Add extra fun with splash-ready gear:

• Inflatable floaties

• Water balloons or squirt guns

• Our complimentary lily pads—giant floating mats perfect for playing or relaxing

It’s one of the easiest ways to upgrade your boat day and maximize things to do in Austin with kids this summer.

3. Snack Like a Pro

No boat day is complete without snacks! Keep things easy and mess-free:

• Fruit kabobs

• Cheese cubes & crackers

• Sandwich rolls

• Refillable water bottles or juice pouches

Coolers on board help you stay stocked and hydrated, even on the hottest days.

4. Explore the Best Kid-Friendly Beach Spots (With a Captain!)

Want to discover hidden gems your kids will love? If you rent with a Float On captain, we’ll take you to the best beachy areas on the lake—perfect for:

• Wading in cool, shallow water

• Walking on soft sand

• Searching for shells and small lake treasures

Our captains know the lake inside and out, so you can sit back and relax while we guide you to calm, family-friendly spots off the beaten path. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Austin with kids this summer, and a great way to turn your boat day into a mini-adventure.

5. Try a Lake Wildlife Scavenger Hunt

Austin’s lakes are teeming with kid-friendly wonders. Print a simple scavenger hunt sheet and let your little explorers look for:

• Turtles on logs

• Ducks or herons

• Jumping fish

• Kayakers or paddleboarders

This combo of fun + learning is a hidden gem among things to do in Austin with kids in summer—and kids love it.

6. Make It a Memory-Maker

Whether you’re celebrating a summer birthday, the first week of break, or just a Saturday with no plans, a boat day is a great way to unplug and reconnect as a family. Add a few special touches like balloons, goodie bags, or even cupcakes to mark the occasion.

Ready to Book Your Lake Day?

At Float On Boat Rentals, we make family fun simple. Our boats are clean, safe, and easy to use—so you can spend more time enjoying the water and less time stressing about the details.

If you’re mapping out your summer bucket list and wondering about the top things to do in Austin with kids this summer, look no further. A lake day with Float On checks all the boxes for fun, adventure, and unforgettable family time.

👉 Book your family-friendly boat (with or without a captain) and let the summer memories begin!