When asking yourself about something to do near me in Round Rock with a group of friends or family, consider
Executive Watersports
Why Executive Watersports is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Executive Watersports, located on scenic Lake Austin in Texas, is an elite, semi-private facility specializing in wakeboarding, water skiing, wakesurfing, and hydrofoiling instruction. Founded in 1998 by Chad Eppes, the facility has grown into Austin’s top-tier youth development and watersports training center. It’s known for its welcoming and positive environment focused on building relationships while learning water sports. Executive Watersports offers a variety of summer programs, private lessons, and clinics tailored for all skill levels, making it an ideal meeting place for friends and families who enjoy active outdoor recreation. The instructors are highly qualified, with USA Watersports Level 1 and CPR/First Aid certifications, ensuring safety and quality instruction. Unique teaching methods include riding doubles—towing two people so an experienced instructor can ride alongside the student—allowing real-time coaching. The owner, Wilson Allen, who started as a camper and rose to lead the business, fosters a tight-knit community of water sports enthusiasts. He actively participates in wakesports and embraces sustainability through his university studies. Executive Watersports offers access to all necessary equipment and uses premium boats like Malibu 23 LSV, creating an exceptional water experience on Lake Austin for friends to enjoy learning and progressing together.
Here's what people think of Executive Watersports
As of recent, Executive Watersports holds a 5-star rating based on 12 reviews.
Reviews consistently reflect an overwhelmingly positive impression of Executive Watersports. Customers appreciate the facility's strong focus on safety, high instructor quality, and personalized attention in small groups, which creates a supportive and fun learning atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of the staff and how they go above and beyond to help both kids and adults improve their water sports skills. The use of innovative teaching methods, such as riding doubles for hands-on coaching, receives praise as it enhances learning effectiveness. The community feeling and family-friendly environment are also frequently mentioned as distinct advantages, making it an excellent place to meet and bond with others. Negative reviews are rare, but a few comments mention the need for reservation due to demand, which can limit spontaneous visits. A small number of customers have noted that operating hours are not always clearly stated. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback confirms Executive Watersports' reputation as Austin's premier watersports instruction center, successfully balancing safety, skill-building, and enjoyment for participants of all ages.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marissa Owsley Brown
The executive water sports staff was extremely kind and gentle with my children. This was our second summer doing their camp and we will definitely return again. It is a favorite camp and has given them tons of confidence!
Katherine Miles-Finch
Highly recommend Executive Watersports. We booked an excursion to celebrate our son’s 13th birthday. Jaco did an amazing job corralling six 13-year-old boys. He was super attentive to all the boys, and he was incredibly safe. What was most impressive were his problem solving skills which kept the boys on the water longer.
Huyler Brooks
It’s been a shade over 20 years since I took a class at Executive Watersports and I have no doubt things have changed. So, with that in mind, this is not so much a review of the skills that one can expect to gain from attending a course at Executive Watersports. However, it is a comment to the incredible character that Jacob shows while he is off the clock and in his normal life. Me, being a dumb dumb and riddled with nerves as I was right into the beginning of a second date, did not check the fuel gauge before setting off. This was brought to my attention 10 minutes from Walsh/Oyster Landing by the sputtering, lurching, and then the silence of a warm engine with no fuel. My date stared at me with mild amusement as the silence amplified my panic and embarrassment as I ran through our options and surveilled the lake for a friendly mariner willing to lend a hand. Alas, the lake was empty save for a boat to which I did jump up and down and wave at. No dice. Their eyes were trained - rightly so - on their surfer who was en town. It was at this moment I resigned myself to the most horrifying and embarrassing and exhausting option at our disposal. Like a fountain, I spewed apologies to my date and while bracing for the swim ahead back to “The Only Store” where, I had thought, gas might be; I was later informed their tanks were dry as well. It wasn’t the swim that horrified me, or the embarrassment of being a dummy in front of someone I was trying to impress, it was the simple fact that I’d have to get down to my skivvies - which I had not planned on being seen by anyone other than myself that day - to make the tow. Khakis are not optimal swimwear. With my shirt unbuttoned and apologies still flowing, out of nowhere it seemed, a boat crested the horizon. With not much hope, I half heartedly flailed an arm in the boats direction as my date gazed on with patience, amusement, and a complex blend of pity and empathy. Just like that, the boat altered course towards us and my heart leapt. As vessel neared, I remarked to myself how, whoever was captaining it, handled the boat with precision and care. The acceleration and deceleration were smooth and the maneuvering as it approached nearer indicated a skilled waterman with many many hours under his belt was behind the helm. Desperation made my words fall out as I explained our plight which were treated and received by a cool, calm, and collected young man named Jacob. Without hesitation, he said “yes” to helping us get to shore, but what is most remarkable is that he did not stop there with my “ask” of him. He went on to offer everything that he had at his disposal to help us with our situation which included his time for a complete tow back to Walsh, gas from his truck which he was using to fuel his own boat for EW, his patience in dealing with my frenetic energy, and his trust that I would indeed settle up with him once he had sent us on our way with a FULL tank of gas in exchange for simply a handshake and a promise of repayment. These moments, I find, are few and far between and the people that bring them into existence - like Jacob - are exemplary. For in such a way as I have been able, his example has stuck with me since that moment where he literally tossed a line to a boat that was adrift without any expectation of return. So, with all of this said, while I cannot comment on his ability to teach wakeboarding, surfing, and skiing. I can say, firstly, the way in which he handles his craft shows to me the true markers of a skilled mariner…so much so that he very well could be Poseidon himself. So, I can assume that his students in the water are very well considered and looked after. More importantly, and finally, the way in which he handles himself outside of the “classroom” shows a character that shows a certain degree of maturity and caring that I have no doubt finds its way into every aspect of his practice.
Heather Pharr
Favorite summer camp in Austin!! Best instructors, really well run, and the kids have so much fun! We have a boat but having this great crew teach our boys to wake surf, wakeboard and ski was SO wonderful. It supported a love for water sports that has transferred into fun for our whole family. Really impressed both years the boys have attended. Our boys will be headed back for sure!
Michele Karp
If you want your child to learn how to water ski, wakeboard, and/or wake surf (and have the most fun ever), send them to Executive Watersports!!!! Every year, it is the best week of my children’s entire summer. They have a total blast. The staff is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and SO fun. They will communicate with you as needed and Wilson is quick to remedy any issues that might arise (like reapplying sunscreen, haha!). He is amazing. It may seem pricey but it’s completely worth it (and there are sibling discounts, etc). Love these “EW” peeps and appreciate what they do! 💕🤙🏄
How to reach Executive Watersports
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Why Executive Watersports may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Executive Watersports with your friends?
Executive Watersports stands out as a top destination for rallying with your friends because it combines expert instruction, a safe and fun environment, and a diverse range of water sports activities that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned pro, EW provides an inclusive space where camaraderie and adventure mesh seamlessly. The instructors are known for their kindness, attentiveness, and ability to keep groups, even energetic teenagers, safe and engaged on the water. Booking a session here feels like joining a community that thrives on creating exciting shared experiences on the beautiful Lake Austin. The atmosphere at Executive Watersports encourages building lasting bonds through teamwork and mutual encouragement, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings, friend meetups, or birthday celebrations. The business enjoys stellar reviews, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating across a dozen detailed testimonials, confirming the quality and care they provide. Rallying here means stepping out of your routine to enjoy something active, social, and genuinely memorable on the water, all supported by a well-run, experienced team that has been part of Austin’s water sports scene since 1998.
What water sports activities are offered at Executive Watersports?
Executive Watersports specializes in a variety of exhilarating water sports that cater to different interests and skill levels, making it an ideal venue for group meetups. The activities offered include wakeboarding, wakesurfing, waterskiing, wakefoiling, and tubing. Each of these sports uses specially designed boats and equipment, and expert instructors guide participants through lessons tailored to their skill level. Wakeboarding and wakesurfing involve riding on boards behind a boat, with wakesurfing mimicking the feel of surfing on a river wave created by the boat. Waterskiing requires balance and speed, where participants ski on water using two skis or one slalom ski. Wakefoiling is a newer, rapidly growing sport that uses a hydrofoil attached beneath a board, allowing riders to soar above the water's surface in a smooth, flying sensation. For more relaxed fun, tubing involves being pulled on an inflatable tube behind the boat, perfect for friends who want to cheer on riders or simply glide on the water together. Executive Watersports supports beginners through pros with private lessons and summer camps, ensuring everyone in your group can enjoy the water safely and confidently.
Why is Executive Watersports perfect for a group meetup?
Executive Watersports is an exceptional spot for group meetups because it focuses not only on skill development but also on safety, fun, and social connection. Their longstanding reputation, with over 25 years of experience, underpins a professional yet welcoming culture that makes people feel comfortable trying new things together. The instructors are attentive and experienced in managing groups, even those with children or mixed ages, which is crucial for larger meetups. They offer private charters and custom lessons, allowing groups to tailor their experience to their interests and abilities. The spacious boats and the friendly staff ensure that everyone—from casual tubers to competitive wakeboarders—feels included and has a great time. Additionally, Executive Watersports operates on Lake Austin, a scenic and accessible location with ample parking and stunning natural surroundings, which enhances the entire day out. The commitment to safety and quality instruction means organizers can relax while their friends or family enjoy the activities fully. This supportive environment encourages bonding through shared challenges and achievements on the water.
What makes the instructors at Executive Watersports stand out?
The instructors at Executive Watersports are known for their deep expertise, patience, and genuine passion for teaching water sports. Many are former students or former campers themselves, such as Wilson Allen, the current owner, who took over from the founder and continues the tradition of mentoring new generations. This personal connection to the community contributes to a welcoming atmosphere where instructors treat students like family. Their instruction emphasizes safety without sacrificing fun, which has been praised repeatedly in reviews highlighting how even young children have benefited from lessons that boost confidence and skills. The staff is outstanding in managing groups, demonstrated by their ability to work with varied ages and skill levels simultaneously. Their problem-solving skills and attentiveness allow groups to maximize their time on the water, often keeping everyone engaged longer. This expert guidance ensures that every participant, from novices to returnees, gets personalized attention to progress and enjoy their experience fully.
How does Executive Watersports accommodate children and families?
Executive Watersports is exceptionally well-suited for children and family gatherings due to its focused summer camps and family-friendly instruction. The summer wake camps are among the best in Austin and have been running since the business’s founding. These camps teach kids wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing in a safe, encouraging environment that nurtures confidence and excitement for water sports. Parents appreciate the kindness and gentleness of the instructors, who tailor teaching methods to suit children’s needs and ensure safety is a top priority. The camp experience also fosters new friendships among participants, making it a social highlight for kids during the summer. For family meetups, Executive Watersports offers private charters and sessions that can involve multiple family members, perfect for multigenerational fun. The supportive and structured setting lets families try new water sports together, creating lasting memories on Lake Austin while building skills that kids can continue to develop year-round.
What are some unique features of Executive Watersports?
Executive Watersports offers several distinct features that enrich the group meetup experience. One memorable aspect is their affection for their pontoon boat, affectionately called the “Juicy Buddha,” which adds character and a communal vibe to outings on the lake. The company’s legacy, having been established in 1998, reflects its longstanding commitment to quality and community-building. The evolution of ownership from founder Chad Eppes to former student Wilson Allen highlights the continuity of passion and expertise in the business. Their focus on new and trendy water sports like wakefoiling positions them at the cutting edge of the water sports world, appealing to adventurous groups looking for novel experiences. The location on Lake Austin offers calm, scenic waters perfect for both learners and experienced riders. Executive Watersports also provides well-maintained equipment and a clean, organized facility, ensuring a hassle-free day for visitors. These details combine to create an inviting, high-quality environment that distinguishes Executive Watersports as an outstanding choice for hosting social water sports meetups.
How accessible is Executive Watersports for groups?
Executive Watersports is very accessible for group outings thanks to its flexible scheduling, private charters, and range of activities suited for all ages and skill levels. The center operates daily from early morning until evening, providing ample time slots to fit various group plans and preferences. Their private charters allow groups to reserve focused time on the water with expert guidance, avoiding overcrowding and ensuring a personalized experience. The location on Lake Austin offers convenient parking and easy access, which is important for groups traveling together. Additionally, the variety of water sports options means groups don’t have to stick to only one activity—some members can learn to wakesurf while others enjoy tubing or wakefoiling, making the experience enjoyable for diverse interests. Their careful attention to safety, especially for children and beginners, means group organizers can feel confident bringing mixed-ability participants. Executive Watersports’ professional organization and customer service simplify group planning, maximizing enjoyment and minimizing stress.
What kind of atmosphere and community can you expect at Executive Watersports?
Executive Watersports fosters a lively yet welcoming atmosphere that blends excitement with community values. Customers consistently praise the friendly, expert staff and their ability to create a supportive environment where everyone feels included, regardless of water sports experience. The feeling of belonging is enhanced by the company’s history as a camp and training ground for local youth, which has built a loyal community of multi-generational water enthusiasts. This sense of community is palpable during group events, where shared challenges on boards or tubes bring friends and families closer together. The natural beauty of Lake Austin adds a serene backdrop to the energetic water action, balancing adrenaline with relaxation. Executive Watersports effectively combines professional service with a personal touch, resulting in an environment that feels less like a business and more like a gathering of friends who share a love for water sports and fun.
Why should you consider Executive Watersports over other water sports centers?
Choosing Executive Watersports over other centers comes down to their exceptional reputation, longevity, tailored instruction, and community focus. With over 25 years of operation, they have refined their approach to teaching and hosting groups, resulting in a seamless, safe, and highly enjoyable experience. Their perfect 5-star rating across multiple reviews speaks to consistent customer satisfaction and the high-quality care they provide to every guest. They offer a wider range of services than many competitors, including summer camps, private lessons, boat charters, and cutting-edge sports like wakefoiling. Their staff’s personal connection to the business and the sport means they are more invested in participant outcome and safety than a larger or less specialized facility might be. For group meetups, Executive Watersports’ combination of expert guidance, flexible options, excellent equipment, and beautiful location on Lake Austin creates a superior environment to bond, learn, and create lasting memories. This blend of professionalism and community engagement is rare and makes Executive Watersports the premier choice for hosting social water sports events.