Nearly three quarters of our planet is covered in water, most of which remains unexplored. Therefore, it’s no surprise that stand up paddle boarding has emerged as a trendy and enjoyable pastime. Here are some of the top places to experience this exhilarating water sport.
USA
From tropical Hawaii and Florida to California where paddlers are making waves, even the remote and rugged regions of Alaska and the Great Lakes are ideal for paddle boarding. Whether it’s fresh or saltwater, flat water or rushing river, there’s a spot for everyone.
SUP Hot Spot: Lake Tahoe, nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, offers a breathtaking setting with its mountainous landscape, rocky shorelines, and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for paddlers of all levels.
French Polynesia
Tahiti and the other atolls of French Polynesia present stunning vistas when viewed from a paddle board in their serene coral lagoons. Slip on your sunglasses and immerse yourself in the vibrant blues of the South Pacific.
SUP Hot Spot: Experience the idyllic lagoon of Bora Bora in Mo’orea, where you can paddle above schools of sharks and rays.
Australia
A continent surrounded by water, Australia offers diverse paddling experiences. From crystal-clear lagoons to peaceful harbors, and even catching waves while exploring the largest coral reef system in the world, this destination is a paddler’s dream.
SUP Hot Spot: The Great Barrier Reef is best experienced from a paddle board, providing a breathtaking aerial view of its stunning underwater landscape.
Costa Rica
Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is ideal for paddlers. You can leisurely paddle from cove to cove along palm-fringed beaches or seek thrills by catching some waves. This small country is a paddler’s paradise offering two coastal experiences.
SUP Hot Spot: Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast showcases unparalleled beauty. Where else can you spot monkeys while paddling?
Mexico
With three distinct bodies of water, Mexico offers vast paddling opportunities along its extensive coastline. Enjoy navigating through warm waves or swimming alongside whale sharks beneath you.
SUP Hot Spot: Puerto Vallarta provides a family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring a fun paddling experience for all ages.
Italy
With the Ionian, Adriatic, and Tyrrhenian Seas as well as alpine lakes in the Alps, Italy is a paddler’s haven providing countless exploration opportunities.
SUP Hot Spot: Explore the coast of Sicily, where history and breathtaking landscapes provide an enriching paddle experience.
South Africa
South Africa features the unique advantage of two oceans. The Atlantic Ocean, to the west of Cape Town, offers dramatic coastlines filled with sand dunes and shipwrecks. In contrast, the Indian Ocean to the east contributes aqua blue waters and exhilarating waves, attracting adventurous paddlers.
SUP Hot Spot: Addington Beach in Durban provides ample space for various paddle boarding activities, whether it’s catching waves or tranquil coastal exploration.
Indonesia
The volcanic islands of Indonesia boast world-class tropical waters, reefs, and perfect waves calling for paddlers everywhere. Paddle boarding opens doors to snorkeling adventures or leisurely exploration among the thousands of rideable waves.
SUP Hot Spot: Raja Ampat is undoubtedly among the most beautiful destinations to paddle, home to mesmerizing marine life including manta rays.
Norway
Stand up paddle boarding isn’t just a warm-water activity. Enjoy whale watching, cruising glaciers, and exploring fjords in Norway. With guided tours available, you can delve into its breathtaking landscapes.
SUP Hot Spot: The Helgeland Coast offers stunning scenery perfect for an unforgettable paddle boarding journey, with deep bays and fresh seafood.
Thailand
In Thailand, the challenge lies not in paddling itself, but in deciding where to go. With stunning bays, lagoons, and beaches awaiting discovery, let the tropical fish below your board be your guide.
SUP Hot Spot: Koh Phi Phi’s stunning Andaman waters and unique geography create a paddlers’ paradise, complete with convenient board rentals on the beach.
