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Whether you seek challenging river expeditions through precisely carved canyons or leisurely explorations through untouched rainforests, hidden beaches, and tropical lagoons, these nine extensive stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) locations promise remarkable adventures and unique perspectives that only paddleboarding can provide. SUP has not only emerged as one of the globe’s fastest-growing sports but also serves as a reflective means of exploration.
The following destinations boast ideal conditions for multi-day paddleboarding expeditions, along with local guides that can facilitate these experiences in 2022.
1. Great Bear Rainforest, Canada
The enchanting Great Bear Rainforest, along the Pacific coast of British Columbia, is the only location globally where one can encounter the elusive white subspecies of the American black bear, known as the spirit bear. Norm Hann Expeditions provides seven-day excursions that not only allow the opportunity to search for these fascinating creatures but also to paddle alongside humpback whales and establish a deeper connection with the land through the guidance of First Nations. Typically, these journeys coincide with the annual salmon run to optimize wildlife viewing potential.
2. Kratie, Cambodia
The mighty Mekong River was historically home to as many as 1,000 Irrawaddy dolphins, characterized by their distinctive bulging foreheads and stubby beaks. Currently, only 92 remain in a limited stretch of the river between Kratie, Cambodia, and the border with Laos. While most visitors hire boats from Kratie to observe the dolphins, the most unobtrusive method is to paddle independently. SUP Asia conducts three-day paddleboarding tours that enable interaction with this critically endangered species, in addition to exploring secluded river beaches, engaging with local communities, and navigating the Mekong’s flooded forests.
3. Southwater Caye, Belize
Traveling to the coastal area of the small Central American nation of Belize allows you to partake in one of the world’s only lodge-to-lodge SUP tours. Island Expeditions offers a six-day voyage among the palm-fringed islets of Tobacco Caye, Billy Hawk Caye, and Southwater Caye. Paddle by day over the Belize Barrier Reef—part of the second-largest coral system globally after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia—while exploring tranquil lagoons, narrow mangrove canals, and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Each evening, relax in a hammock and enjoy the sunset from a family-run lodge.
4. Zadar Archipelago, Croatia
Few regions in Europe are as ideally positioned for paddleboarding as Croatia’s Zadar Archipelago, renowned as one of the densest island groups in the Adriatic. Situated off the coast of the historically rich city of Zadar, these predominantly uninhabited islands offer a complete reprieve from the more tourist-centric areas of the Dalmatian Coast further south. During a six-night journey with Malik Adventures, paddlers traverse pristine coves, concealed fishing villages, and fascinating grottos while concluding most days with traditional culinary experiences based on locally sourced ingredients.
5. Costa Verde, Brazil
The historic resort town of Paraty may be among Brazil’s most tranquil destinations, but just nearby lies the even more serene “tropical fjord” of Mamanguá. This narrow 7km (4.5-mile) channel winds through hills blanketed with untouched Atlantic rainforest, providing ideal conditions for relaxed paddleboarding. Paraty Explorer organizes four-day excursions that allow navigation among tropical islands along the Costa Verde, followed by exploration of the dense mangrove forests and secluded beaches of Mamanguá. Hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation form a complete lodge-based experience.
6. Cornwall, England
Comprising high cliffs, sandy beaches, and sheltered coves, the Cornish Coastline represents one of England’s most significant natural resources. It has also emerged as a developing region for stand-up paddleboarding, featuring numerous areas that offer extended stretches protected from substantial swells. Based in Porthleven, Vertical Blue Adventures organizes customized multi-day excursions to secluded beaches where you can forage for your meals and camp outdoors beneath a star-studded sky.
7. New Mexico, USA
Envision navigating a breathtaking New Mexican river that inspires works by renowned painter Georgia O’Keeffe and pioneering landscape photographer Ansel Adams. New Mexico River Adventures provides a captivating 21-mile (34km) three-day paddleboard excursion down the Rio Chama. This adventure commence in the river’s namesake town and concludes in the small artist enclave of Abiquiu. Along the route, you will encounter multi-hued cliffs and ancient Native American remnants while facing a combination of flat water and Class II rapids. Camping is conducted along the canyon walls at the river’s edge.
8. Kenmare Bay, Ireland
Ireland maintains a profound connection to the encompassing sea. What better manner to discover it than to embark on a SUP adventure along the rugged western coastline? The sinuous Kenmare Bay offers the ideal environment for extensive paddling on serene waters, without sacrificing the essential pub visits each evening. Wild SUP Tours features a five-day expedition where you explore deserted islands adorned with ancient remnants, indulge in hearty Irish cuisine onshore, and uncover the rich history of the Iveragh Peninsula.
9. Utah, USA
Extensive sections of the US state of Utah have been sculpted so deeply by rivers that they are only reachable by those willing to paddle in. This scenario is evident in parts of the Green River, a tributary of the larger Colorado, which offers optimal flat-water conditions as it flows through Labyrinth Canyon near the adventure epicenter of Moab. During four-day excursions with Paddle Moab, participants SUP over a 45-mile (72km) stretch of red-rock canyons, camping on secluded river beaches throughout the journey. The scenic route presents a veritable Wild West fantasy, characterized by sandstone cliffs, towering buttes, and flat-topped mesas.
