6 of the World's Best Places to Do Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Stand up paddleboarding, also known as SUP, has taken the watersports world by storm. It has attracted a lot of people not just because of the workout you get from it but also because of the enjoyment of the sport. It is just like surfing but without the waves and like kayaking while standing up. Plus, it doesn’t feel like working out at all.

Paddleboarding is best done on calm and flat water, especially if you’re still learning the sport. But if you’ve already taken lessons and can manage paddleboarding by yourself, then just paddleboard your way towards these great places around the world.

Oahu, Hawaii. Hawaii is known for waves that are ideal for surfing. It’s also a place that is worth visiting if you’re into paddleboarding. There is a flat water area at Puaena Point at Hale’iwa Beach Park for those who are still learning the sport. The waves are also a lot calmer, especially during the summer time. You can do stand-up surfing as well as SUP yoga and it’s easy to get lessons and paddling gear.

California. When paddleboarding in California, go to Santa Cruz or at Lake Tahoe. The Santa Cruz wharf is great for beginners. You do have to expect to share the space with surfers, however. The harbor is also a good place to learn the sport. Lake Tahoe offers crystal clear waters and a breathtaking view of nature. You can paddleboard on the North Shore’s calm waters. Beginners can enjoy the flat water and light winds by paddling in the morning or early in the evening.

Bali, Indonesia. You don’t need to choose a season to travel to Bali since you can paddleboard all year-round. The Medewi and Balian beaches in the north offer calmer waters and are less crowded. There’s plenty to do while you’re here aside from paddleboarding. You can go hiking, climbing, trekking, and even diving. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

The Turks and Caicos Islands. There’s nothing like the turquoise waters of these islands. The Turks and Caicos Islands have crystal clear waters with reefs that are teeming with life. Take advantage of the island’s trade winds and practice downwind paddling or flat-water paddling and head to the mangrove swamps. There are paddleboard tours being offered that allow you to tour the islands just by being on your paddleboard. Plus, paddle in the open shallow waters and enjoy watching the fish, sharks, and stingrays as you paddle along. Head to the clear and calm waters of Grace Bay or go to Big Blue Unlimited for a paddleboard tour.

Perth, Australia. Being surrounded by waters, there’s no doubt Australia is included in the best places to paddleboard. Get your gear ready and proceed to Perth, Australia. Swan River’s flat waters are a great spot for beginners. You can also enjoy the shores, gentle waves, and the relaxing paddle boarding experience of Cottesloe Beach.

Mexico. Mexico has great places for paddleboarding whether you’re on the Pacific Ocean side or on the Gulf of Mexico. Sayulita, Cancun, and Punta Mita are some examples. There’s a big community of paddleboarders in Sayulita and you could go and catch SUP retreats hosted by many SUP professionals. And of course, there’s no shortage of lessons, guides, and gear rentals in the area.