Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next tropical paddleboard adventure getaway, for a long weekend away in your van, or simply a SUP day adventure, this page should give you all the supspiration you need!
We’ve broken this page down into Paddleboard backyards which are regions with multiple spots close together. These work well as inspiration for weekend or week away adventures. Some of these are UK, and some are international – choose your inspiration well
And the other type of spot is a bitesize paddle board travel guide – each article is a specific spot, and the article contains safety, accessibility and other important information.
If you want to add your favourite SUP spot, please drop us an in**@mc*****.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>email.
PLEASE NOTE:: The map below is still a work in progress.
If you’re looking for general information on what type of waterways you’re allowed to paddle, and what licences you need, please check out this article
Location:
Pagham, Arun, West Sussex.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location that can feature flat water, choppy seas or waves at times.
Conditions:
Pagham is, for many local SUP surfers, a wave venue that can be offshore when winter south westerlies blow. The offshore sand/shingle bank does move about but on its day the surf can be super fun.
At other times is mostly a flat/choppy water venue that gives access to a few different adventure SUP routes.
Click here for more info on hazards, access, amenities, and much more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzXOuGiJLw4
Location:
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Spot type:
Open water, tidal, rocky and remote west facing beach break that almost disappears at high tide leaving only reef.
Conditions:
Being open to the Atlantic Marloes Sands picks up plenty of surfable juice. And at low tide can be an idyllic beach break. With a few small rocks to watch out for. It’s a remote place, due to difficult access, but this remoteness makes Marloes equally very beautiful. On flat water days it’s a dreamy spot for recreational paddling. There are a few adventure SUP routes but you’ll need to know the area and have your emergency get outs sorted!
Click here for more info on hazards, conditions, parking etc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHAJuNy8Hfc
Location: Manorbier, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type: Open water, tidal location that whilst often flat in summer gets a fairly hefty wave on the right swell. More cove like than true open beach there’s a significant reef to the right that you’ll appreciate or not.
Conditions: In winter you get waves so Manorbier is predominantly a surf spot. Outside of this you get flatter times – especially in summer. That said freak swells can still chuck up a SUP surfing peak or two during high season. And if there’s onshore wind then you’ll definitely get something. Even if it doesn’t look paddle friendly at that point. Manorbier’s tidal range is pretty big so best be aware of how the beach changes as water ebbs and flows.
Click here for more information about hazards, parking facilities and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDF5S7qTTlA
Location:
Milford on Sea, Lymington, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location nestled in the shadow of Hurst Castle.
Conditions:
Milford on Sea is the closest proper open tidal water spot to Lymington. It’s open to swell and does get its fair share of proper waves – especially during winter. Unfortunately, the beach is very steep meaning shore dump – particularly at high tide – can be a bit full on. There’s also the tide factor to keep in mind. Hurst Spit is a one mile shingle bank that shelters mudflats and salt marsh, known as Keyhaven. The tide flows out of the marshes and can create currents which may present hazards. Also, being at the mouth of The Solent there’s also flow to keep in mind. And to a certain degree large boat traffic, which also needs keeping clear of.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, facilities and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBwPCta0G60
Location:
Bude Canal, Bude, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Manmade, inland waterway sheltered from all weather and non-tidal.
Conditions:
Bude canal is very sheltered. Whilst not what you think of when visiting Bude (as the town’s more associated with surfing) the canal can serve as flat water respite when the Atlantic’s not playing ball. The start point is right at Summerleaze Beach and it runs a total of 35 miles. There’s no real flow but a reservoir built at Virworthy does feed the canal so in parts paddlers may experience moving water.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, facilities, and much more
Location:
Instow to Northam Burrows (Torridge Estuary), North Devon.
Spot type:
Extremely tidal location that goes almost dry on big spring low tides. A lot of water moves here so getting it right is super important. It’s quite sheltered, however, with Atlantic swell not really making it this high into the estuary. Wind can sometimes be a factor though.
Conditions:
Flat to choppy water dictated by tide and breeze are what you’ll find here. Some wake from boat traffic and very occasionally massive swell can push in from the open sea. Although this is rare and even if it does the waves will be small and weak.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and amenities
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0LKcigJgBA
Location:
Stand up paddle boarding Abbotsham Cliffs to Buck’s Mill, Bideford, North Devon.
Spot type:
Remote, reefy, rocky and cliffy adventure SUP, touring spot open to the elements.
Conditions:
Conditions along Abbotsham Cliffs can be serenely flat and calm – especially during good weather spells in summer. This can be a good time to tick this adventure SUP route off. During more changeable parts of the year you’ll be at the mercy of weather gods. And being so remote there’s no easy get out if things go awry. With a rocky, reefy bottom you’ll need to keep your wits about you. And if there’s surf the many reef set us can light up. But they’re definitely not for inexperienced paddlers!
Click here for more information on hazards, access and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeDl3nHZRHg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bola4QDf1JU
Location:
Caledonian Canal, The Great Glen Canoe Trail, Corpach (Fort William) to Seaport (Inverness).
Spot type:
Inland, non tidal, extensive open water. This is a 95km multiday journey crossing Scotland, linking the west coast to the east coast via the Caledonian Canal, Loch Lochy and Loch Ness.
Conditions:
Normally paddled from south to north, as this is the direction of the prevailing wind. A reputation for changing weather and water conditions.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdn9s88rqMs
Location: Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Spot type: Split into three beaches Tenby is a bit of a SUP paradise (for those happy to mix and match what conditions they prefer) depending on which beach they launch from and the prevailing conditions on the day. Open water, tidal and changeable Tenby can be a wave haven for surf SUPers, a flat water recreational venue, downwind nirvana, adventure paddle spot or everything else in between.
Tenby itself is a buzzing seaside hub that attracts all manner of visitors from coastal admirers, families, hen and stag groups as well as discerning watersports participants.
Conditions:
The three main beaches in Tenby (Tenby North, Tenby South and Tenby Harbour) all offer distinct SUP conditions. Tenby North is an E facing put in featuring plenty of golden sand, shallow water with decent shelter from inbound Atlantic weather. During serious SW storms Tenby North can chuck up a reeling wave that breaks off the iconic lifeboat station at low tide. If the wave’s on then it’ll packed out with surfers all vying for their share of this rare breaking wave. For most of the time, however, Tenby North is a flat water spot that occasionally suffers from chop, mostly brought about by easterly winds.
Tenby Harbour is an extremely sheltered spot. It can be blowing dogs off chains out in the sea proper yet the harbour remains idyllically flat. There are plenty of boat moorings here and it should be noted this is a working harbour so fishing craft do come and go. That said it’s a great spot for learning to SUP. Those wanting to cover distance will be disappointed here as the harbour only offers a small playing field for SUP.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OePaZiH6JUI
Location:
Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Super exposed, west facing beach boasting a high quality reef break and not too shoddy beach break wave. Very rippy with strong currents when a decent swell’s running but for the experienced paddler challenging and fun surf. During flat water times (mostly in summer) Freshwater West can be a good touring/adventure SUP spot with the chance of potential spotting seals and dolphins.
Conditions:
When there’s a pulse of swell heading in from the Irish Sea Freshwater West can be an awesome location to snag the wave of your life. It’s a quality break, with the right forecast, and serves up fast, reeling lefts and rights that’ll propel any confident, experienced SUP surfer along at warp speed. It should also be noted, however, that the sand bar beach break wave can snap boards as it has a tendency to unload with power in the shallows.
For anyone thinking about tackling the reef certainly give appropriate consideration before putting in. The wave, during certain stages of tide, can resemble a slab i.e. breaking in minimal water depths> whilst this can give exceptional rides you and your equipment need to be up to the challenge. We know of at least one experience paddle surfer who broke his back having been chucking into the shallows here. Not to scaremonger but Freshwater West reef isn’t for the inexperienced.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2arVqDJNAU
Location:
Amroth Beach (Telpyn), Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Open sea, tidal east facing beach sitting along the shores of Carmarthen Bay. Big pebbles and rocky at high tide gives way to a mile long stretch of sand at low tide. Quaint seaside village with an array of shops, cafes and pubs make for a mellow and pleasant feel. Even though Saundersfoot and Tenby and close by (with Pendine to the east) Amroth doesn’t feel super busy even during peak times.
Conditions:
SUP conditions vary depending on the time of year and weather. Summer is usually flat with Amroth offering a flat water paddling haven that one windless days, without a breath of wind, can resemble somewhere much more exotic. During high season the water’s warm and pleasant with an abundance of sea life to observe, Watch out for jellyfish that float in from the deep and can reach significant sizes! Dolphins have been spotted here with plenty of fish jumping as well.
Low tide drops back from the large bank of pebbles and various groynes dotted along the beach. This is when most paddlers/people frequent Amroth for all sorts of beach games and watersports frolics. It’s a holiday destination for many with beachfront accommodation running alongside the sand. Even so, it never feels overrun (and that’s based on a visit during a particularly sunny and hot August Bank Holiday weekend – Saundersfoot was much more bombed out for instance.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSNF5vImiFE
Location:
Studland Bay, Studland, Dorset
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered open water location that can be quite tidal. Waves at times but often flat in summer.
Conditions:
Water states across Studland Bay can often be moderately choppy but do get days where it’s idyllically flat. If a big swell’s running up the English Channel then set can sneak in and break, giving fun SUP waves. For days when a blow’s in effect windsurfers and kitesurfers see fit to do battle here with stand up paddling being a no go (usually).
Click here for more information on hazards, access etc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c1ArFbdlZ8
Location: Harlyn Bay, Cornwall Spot
Type: North facing, open water, heavily tidal location that offers shelter for SUP surfers (and surfers in prevailing SW winds.
Conditions: Harlyn on any given day during summer will mostly be flat. Perhaps a small wave will break close to shore but it’s usually an idyllically blue (in the sun), family friendly beach. In winter, or during big pulses of swell and/or wind, Harlyn offers a fast sucky beach break style wave that can be super fast and dumpy. It’s a great wave for testing your mettle although most of Cornwall’s surfers will also descend as it’s a known sheltered break.
Click here for more info on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcn4Viswso4
Location:
Mudeford Harbour, Christchurch, Dorset
Spot type:
Sheltered, but tidal, shallow water venue with a long fishing history. Nowadays more the haven of boating enthusiasts looking for safe haven and watersports practitioners.
Conditions:
Mudeford Harbour is pretty flat, even when winds blow hard. You do get some chop and flow but it never gets too hectic in terms of waves and such. You’ll need to be mindful of the outgoing tide that rips through the narrow gap and will ferry SUPers out into the English Channel quick smart. Without breeze it’s a relatively small and easy going playing field that’d suit recreational/beginner paddlers.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and much more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GezUByaN40s
Location: Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight
Spot type: Open water, tidal reef spot with two very distinct faces depending on wave conditions.
Conditions: When there’s zero to little ground swell (or low winds) Freshwater Bay offers a dramatic flat water SUP location where paddlers can get lost looking down into clear water’s at the rocky bottom below. The bay’s iconic rock stack to the left, makes Freshwater instantly recognisable. With solid swell in the mix Fresh turns into one of the best right hand point breaks on the south coast – but not for the inexperienced. The high tide shore dump alone is pretty hefty!
Location:
Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue exposed to the elements but a spot that picks up the lion’s share of swell in the area when it pulses along the English Channel. You’ll adore the cliff top view upon arriving but loathe the trudge back up post-SUP session.
Conditions:
Highcliffe, being a south coast spot, can have its fair share of flat days but also deliver SUP surfers idyllic wave conditions when Momma Nature’s feeling in the right mood. Picking up the most amount of swell in the area Highcliffe can serve up decent peaks depending on the shape of the sand banks. Rock groynes and wooden sea defences can alter these, in tandem with weather, often. Watching and learning before getting wet therefore pays dividends.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS-f-WPln_Q
Location:
Brighton seafront (central – West Pier), East Sussex
Spot type:
Located right up the English Channel Brighton’s seafront is a heavily tidal, shingle beach that has many different personalities depending on the weather and Mother Nature’s moods. You can get surfable/SUPable waves, although specific aligning of the stars is required for perfect surf, as well as idyllic flat water and everything else in between. Being the closest coastal city to London – and a heavily populated one itself – means you’ll very rarely be alone on the water.
Conditions:
Choppy is often the term used to sum up Brighton’s seafront (and English Channel coastline as a whole). A deep low sitting in the Bay of Biscay, pumping long period ground swell ‘through the gap’ (in a Sly direction) will see many of Brighton’s beaches light up with around head high clean waves – as long as the wind’s light or from the northerly quadrant at least. Even without ground swell, however, you can still get a solid pulse, but being the windy variety means it’ll be weaker and won’t stick around. That said there’s a frothing crew of local surfers and SUP surfers who’re on it every chance they get! The most likely chance of waves happens during the off season. You may get dribble/onshore mush in summer but it’s winter the hardcore crew hang out for. Surf aside there’s plenty to explore in SUP touring mode along Brighton’s beaches. You’d do well to have tidal information in mind, however, as the steeply shelving land can chuck up a hefty shore dump even in the fattest of days. But there’s still respite… The skeletal remains of Brighton’s West Pier – which was burnt out in 2003 – has been left to become a permanent feature of the city’s coastal scape. It offers stand up paddle boarders a point of interest to inspect from atop their boards. Just be aware of the twisted metal remains and submerged pylons that won’t be friendly to flesh or gear.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfAExsSdy2o
Location:
Symonds Yat West, Herefordshire.
Spot type:
Non-tidal placid flat water river location.
Conditions:
Flat water. Can be affected considerably by heavy rain as the river swells and becomes more technical for paddlers. We recommend a top water level of 1.2m for novice paddlers and children. Also affected by wind speed due to the open nature of the river Wye. We suggest a top wind speed of 12 knots for novice paddlers and children.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8KxIsehb_c
Location:
Polzeath, Wadebridge, Cornwall
Spot type:
Classic Cornish surfing beach that’s fairly hemmed in, has a vibrant wave riding scene (featuring all types of craft in summer) and a large expanse of sand that can get absolutely rammed.
Conditions:
Polzeath’s a surf beach, through and through. You do get smaller wave days, and some flat periods that can serve up touring SUP options. By and large, however, you’ll be heading here to hunt swell. The wave itself isn’t too challenging on small to medium swells. It can close out, however, and doesn’t hold much more than 4-6ft. If it’s bigger than that the paddle out can be tough, as you battle relentless lines of white water. Rips can be a factor as well. Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AX6jzTZIJY
Location:
Daymer Bay, Wadebridge, Cornwall
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered, open water, heavily tidal location.
Conditions:
On water conditions can vary at Daymer depending on weather, state of tide and how big a swell’s running. Nestling at the mouth of the Camel Estuary, with Padstow just across the water, Daymer can be a flat water recreation/touring SUP spot, wave venue and everything else in between. The almost mythical right hander off the rocks can see extremely long walled up waves that run and run. Likewise Daymer can be a rippy, current affected ‘mare (if you get it wrong with the tide).
Click here for information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJ-Mdd4k0zw
Location:
Marazion, Mount’s Bay, Penzance, Cornwall
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue, flanked by Penzance to the west and picturesque St Michael’s Mount to the east. Marazion (or Mazza as it’s more commonly referred to) can either be a wave venue of flat water spot depending on time of year and weather.
Conditions:
Hit Mazza in high summer and chances are it’ll be pretty flat. There may be a sea breeze setting up, depending on the actual month, with a small chance of a tiny wave if you’re lucky. Mostly, however, Marazion will be a flat water recreational/touring spot with a picturesque vista, sandy beach and the tiniest whiff of ‘kiss me quick beside the sea’ culture.
For more information about hazards, access, amenities, click here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8HiUyk9wcU
Location:
Swanage Bay, Dorset.
Spot type:
Open tidal water but very sheltered venue. Sometimes gets a wave, and choppy with SE/E/NE wind. Mostly flat though. Great for recreational sea paddling.
Conditions:
Swanage Bay is tidal but it\'s also a very mellow open sea paddling location. Facing E it\'s very sheltered from prevailing SW winds and average size swell that comes up the Channel. It\'s a great bolthole during the off season to hide from storms. Occasionally Swanage can chuck up a SUP friendly wave.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-swanage-bay-dorset/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP5MC8Vd9qQ
Location:
Kimmeridge Bay, Jurassic Coast, Dorset.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location with rocky, reefy seabed. A jewel in the south coast\'s surfing crown noted for its variety of reef waves.
Conditions:
When Kimmeridge (or KBay as it\'s more commonly known) has a wave it\'s an awesome spot for experienced SUP surfers. The Ledges on the left is a mellower longboard style wave. Although this can get pretty big on solid swells. The Bay is also a mellow peak but not quite as consistent as The Ledges. Over on the right you have The Bench which is a hardcore, super shallow break that can literally break you and your kit of you\'re not up to the task. The Bench is on MOD land as well which means it\'s often red flagged during to firing practise. Don\'t sneak round if it is otherwise one of the doodlebugs may find a target!
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-kimmeridge-bay-jurassic-coast-dorset/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgnxMY-Soqo
Location:
Lechlade upon Thames.
Spot type:
Inland waterway and a tributary of the Thames river. Often placid but can have some flow after rain.
Conditions:
Mostly sheltered Lechlade upon Thames is a River Thames tributary that can offer good recreational paddling and adventure SUP options. If there\\\'s been rain it may get some flow so best check before putting in.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-travel-lechalde-upon-thames/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YeXwsJhDoM
Location:
Abingdon-on-Thames river tributary, Oxfordshire.
Spot type:
Mellow standing river wave for the most part. Flow can increase with rain but generally good for practising white water river surfing skills.
Conditions:
River water flows under the bridge and gives a mellow river surfing wave that can be awesome fun. There can be some debris overhanging the river bank and you need some experience of flowing water to stay safe. Good spot for learning though.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-abingdon-on-thames-river-tributary-oxfordshire/
Location:
Widemouth Bay, Bude, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Classic North Cornwall surfing beach with all the usual trappings. Tides, big waves at points, rocks and plenty of other water users. Can be good on its day for SUP surfing. Flatter times see ok touring and adventure paddling.
Conditions:
Close to Bude Widemouth has three distinct areas - the main beach, Black Rock (identifieable by its iconic rock stack) and Wanson. The beach is the safest with mostly sand. Watch out for rocks to either side.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-widemouth-bay-bude-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUiU3fdeQbk
Location:
Croyde Bay, North Devon.
Spot type:
Classic North Devon beach break that\'s held in hig regard by UK surfers. Tidal, wavey and exposed to all weather.
Conditions:
Croyde\'s low tide barrels are things of wonder. On macking swells those cavernous tubes of what locat hotshot surfers wait all year for. On mellower days it\\\\\\\'s a nice SUP surfing spot - just watch out for crowds! During high summer, on flat days there\'s chance to explore the surround atop your SUP. watch out for tides, current and quickly changing weather.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-croyde-bay-north-devon/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RXBBYPm_Z8
Location:
Whitesands Bay, St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue that receieves its fair share of swell - especially during autumn, winter and spring. A busy spot in summer it\'s open to the elements but can be good for SUP surfing. Flat days are fine for recreational paddling.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-whitesands-bay-st-davids-pembrokeshire-wales/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXxzM54Opa4
Location:
Esso Beach (Langstone Harbour oyster beds), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Sheltered tidal harbour location that can be super flat. If windy, however, then it gets quite choppy. A small barrier shingle reef a few yards off the beach acts as a natural safety net. The water can be suspect after rain due to sewage.
Condtions:
Mostly flat to moderatly choppy. Quite exposed if there\'s Wly wind. Good put in for touring SUP or learning basic skills.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-esso-beach-langstone-harbour-oyster-beds-hayling-island-hampshire/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGYSM7zuSeQ
Location:
Langstone, Chichester Harbour (north), Hampshire.
Spot type:
Just a short hop along from Hayling\'s Esso Beach you\'ll find The Ship car park which is where you put in. It\'s very tidal and dries out a few hours after high. Mostly sheletered but can get choppy if windy.
Conditions:
This is a flat water paddling spot suitable for recreational SUP or a good place to start your adventure. If it\'s blowing from the west the nearside bank do offer some shelter. Watch out for boat moorings. And teh car park gets busy in summer. Easy paddling here though.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-langstone-chichester-harbour-north-hampshire/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGYSM7zuSeQ
Location:
Thames Sailing Club, Surbiton, Kingston-upon-Thames, London.
Spot type:
Inland, sheltered river perfect for recreational, touring and race SUP training, The Battle of the Thames is held each year here.
Conditions:
Super flat water with occasional small amounts of chop if windy. A little flow at times but mostly safe. A good spot to start your SUP adventure touring route.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-thames-sailing-club-surbiton-kingston-upon-thames-london/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ke3HVVRx8_Y
Location:
Crantock Beach, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Huge beach with an even bigger sand dune that needs to climbed for access to the beach. Open water surf with flat tidal water in the Gannel estuary at high.
Conditions:
A beach with two side Crantock can have a very usable, SUP friendly wave on smaller swells. Whilst high tide sees the picturesque Gannel estuary fill up and allow paddling on flat water. Use the tide to ferry glide towards Newquay and then ebb back on the flow. Be mindful of currents.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-crantock-beach-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBteccKYX6Y
Location:
Gwithian, St. Ives Bay, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Open water tidal spot synonymous with surf.
Conditions:
Gwithian has become a renowned SUP surfing spot. Although paddle boarders are still outnumbered by traditional surfers. Gwithers can be big but also have mellow waves great for SUP. It\'s very exposed and chops up with any breeze. On flatter days paddling across St. Ives Bay to Carbis or further is possible. Experienced paddlers also do downwinders in this area.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-gwithian-st-ives-bay-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyfrd-0sEIU
Location:
Westward Ho!, North Devon.
Spot type:
Tidal spot that gets an awesome SUP surfing wave. Easy place to learn. Does get choppy if windy due to beach exposure. When flatter it\\\'s a good location for recreational SUP or touring. Some decent routes in this area. Also, quieter than neighbouring Saunton.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-westward-ho-north-devon/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSAE9sf1dxc
Location:
Llangenith, Gower Peninsula, Wales.
Spot type:
Massive open water beach that\'s a Mecca fo surfing.
Conditions:
Llangennith is the indicator spot for the surrounding Gower. It\'s also a good choice for SUP surfing - although not on big days where the paddle out can be brutal! Summer, flatter days give options for touring and recreational SUP. Prone to be blown out and choppy.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-llangenith-gower-peninsula-wales/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8a_eVeJZjA
Location:
Chasewater, Staffordshire, West Midlands.
Spot type:
Inland, heart of the country lake.
Conditions:
Mostly flat water but gets windy and choppy when Mother Nature dictates. a fairly big expanse of water it\'s great for recreational SUP or race training.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chasewater-staffordshire-west-midlands/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDedl52m7OM
Location:
Korcula Island, Croatia.
Spot type:
Adriatic Sea island that\'s great for touring and recreational SUP.
Conditions:
Although you get small tides here they\'re not really a hassle. Currents and flow - especially in the Orebic Channel - can be though. Summer sees super flat water with breeze and chop picking up through the day. afternoon\'s can be awesome for downwind paddling if you know how. Great overseas SUP holiday destination.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-korcula-southern-dalmatia-croatia/
Location:
Mar Menor, Murcia, Spain.
Spot type:
Huge salwater lagoon found on Spain\'s Mediterranean SE corner.
Condtions:
Flat water - especially during summer mornings. Prone to chopping up later in the day as thermal winds build. Can fill up with huge jellyfish blooms. Great for touring and recreational paddling.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-mar-menor-murcia-spain/
Location:
Barbados, Caribbean, West Indies.
Spot type:
West Indian island featuring all type sof paddling in tidal waters.
Conditions:
Everything from SUP surfing to flat water and downiwn paddling can be found in Barbados. And all with a distinctly West Indian flavour. SUP is huge on the island making Barbados a must visit location.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-barbados-caribbean-west-indies/
Location:
Javea (Xabia), Costa Blanca, Spain.
Spot type:
Javea\'s Arenal beach is semi portected paddling spot. Although with th right conditions it still get s waves - especially in winter. Wind can also chop the water up. There are multiple other put ins along this coast, whatever style of SUP you\'re into.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-javea-xabia-costa-blanca-spain/
Location:
Ammoudia, Acheron Delta, Epirus, Greece
Spot type:
Flat to choppy open water Mediterranean beach with a fresh water river adjacent.
Conditions:
Ammoudia\'s bay is a failry sheltered Med put in that can get moderately choppy if (when) the Meltemi blows - mostylu diring summer afternoons. The fresh water river, flowing into th ebay next door, is great for adventure SUP. You can navigate al the way up to Acheron Falls.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-ammoudia-acheron-delta-epirus-greece/
Location:
Open water Med location.
Spot type:
A massive sandy beach gives way to flat/sometimes choppy water. There\'s a big opportunity for some SUP touring here. Likewsie it\'s a good location for recreational paddling when the wind\'s light. A fomer Neilson watersports centre.
Conditions:
Glassy water during summer morning getting progressively choppy throygh teh day as the breeze picks up.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-airone-sibari-calabria-italy/
Location:
Budoni, Sardinia (Baia dei Mori), Italy.
Spot type:
Another Neilson resort that offers semi sheltered paddling water. When the afternoon wind kicks in during summer it gets very choppy. Nikce for a spot of recreational SUP.
Codnitions:
Flat to choppy depending on wind.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-budoni-sardinia-baia-dei-mori-italy-%ef%bf%bc/
Location:
Il de Re & Il d’Oleron, France
Spot type:
Two distinct island in the Vendee area of France. Offering every type of SUP depending on conditions.
Codnitions:
Oleron is the more rugged island with Ile de Re being more polished. Both have put ins for all leveles and styles of paddler. Not as busy as other SW France location during summer.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-il-de-re-il-doleron-france/
Location:
Antigua, Caribbean, West Indies.
Spot type:
West Indian island that\'s failry sheltered from swell due to it extending continetal reef shelf. Trade Winds are ever present, however, so seeking sheltere is always a good idea. Open sea is quiet choppy. Sometimes ground swell is big enough to make it across teh reef and light up certain breaks for SUP surfing.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-international-bitesize-paddle-board-guides-antigua-caribbean-west-indies/
Location:
Kihei to Lahaina, (south shore) Maui, Hawaii.
Spot type:
Legedary Pacific Ocean island (Maui) with the south shore being more mellow and less open to swell than the north.
Conditions:
All along the rout from Kihei to LaHaina you\'ll find various SUP surifng friendly waves and flat water touring spots. There\'s also the odd (fickle) world class wave. A much more doable coast for intermediate padlers than the North Shore. although care shoudl still be take due to reef, tides and other hazards.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-kihei-to-lahaina-south-shore-maui-hawaii/
Location:
Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian, Greece (north)
Spot type:
Mediterranean oen water spot susceptibe to afternoon summer winds but glassy calm during mornings. Great for adventure SUP and touring.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-zakynthos-zante-ionian-islands-greece-north/
Location:
Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Spot type:
Costa Teguise is one of the more sheltered spots on Lanzarote. Its sandy beach and flat water (inside) are great for learning to SUP. Outside it gets lumpier with often quite a stiff breeze blowing - especially during summer. The reef can chuck up a wave and sometimes the swell pushes all the way to the inside if it\'s big enough. This breaks over reef, although the rocks aren\'t as harsh as other breaks.
Conditions:
Flat water, waves and rolling swell are what you\'ll find here. It\'s also windy at times with windsurfers making a beeline for the area.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-costa-teguise-lanzarote-canary-islands/
Location:
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands.
Spot type:
Deep water, wavey, choppy and windy in a lot of locations. Some shelter can be found around the harbour and tidal lagoons along the northern track, Great spot for SUP surfing and downwinding. Some tide and a lot of reef.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-corralejo-fuerteventura-canary-islands/
Location:
Vassiliki Bay, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece
Spot type:
Sheltered flat water in the morning, moderate chop and windy summer afternoons in summer.
Conditions:
Vass is a windsurifng institution. But the wind doesn\'t start until afternoon in summer leaving calm glassy morning for recreational SUP. Winter can get a rare wave. But it\'s a case of being there and on it.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-vassiliki-bay-lefkas-ionian-greece/
Location:
Nidri, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece
Spot type:
Flat water (mostly) with some chop depending on afternoon summer breeze.
Conditions:
Semi sheltered flat water, non-tidal spot that\\\'s a haven for yachts during summer. Never really gets too windy or choppy and is often glassy calm through the morning. Access is easy enough although you\\\'ll need to navigate a few rocks potentially. Best not to put in from pontoons as they\\\'re private. Plenty of amenities on land.
Location:
Mylos Beach (Agios Nikitas), Lefkas, Greece
Spot type:
Exposed Mediterranean spot. Can be flatter in the morning but still prone to lumps and bumps.
Conditions:
Billed as one of the best sandy beaches on the island this is an open water spot, quite exposed to prevailing Ionian weather. It gets quite bumpy/lumpy although proper swell isn\\\'t usually a factor. If it does blow then you\\\'ll be hard pushed to paddle. mornings are definitely best when it\\\'ll be much calmer. There aren\\\'t many hazards (other than windsurfers and kiters when it\\\'s blowing). A couple of beach bars are on site with accommodation close by. The main Lefkas town isn\\\'t too far of a jaunt.
Location:
Porto Heli (Porto Cheli), Ermionida, Argolis, Greece.
Spot type:
Super sheltered with idyllic flat water most of the time. Summer can see breeze on accasion. Quite safe.
Conditions:
Previously owned and operated by Neilson Holidays Porto Heli is now a private beach hotel that still has plenty of access to idyllically flat and sheltered water. Porto Heli never gets that windy - even when surrounding beaches are blowy. Occasionally the prevailing summer Meltemi does fill in but it\\\'s rare to see proper full power days. Boat traffic is the biggest hazard here. Porto Heli town is a short stroll away where you\\\'ll find plenty of eating, drinking, shopping and nightlife.
Location:
Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt.
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered flat water paddling location. A magnet for windsurfers due to consistent breeze. Great for downwinding or learning in the protected tidal lagoon.
Dahab is a windsurfing institution (or at least was until getting there became increasingly difficult). Nowadays it\\\'s much quieter, although the wind still blows. For SUP Dahab is an interesting location. The inside lagoon is sheltered and flat - great for learning. Anybody into downwind paddling will love heading off the beach, south, and riding bumps all the way down to where Harry Nass Centre 4 is. There\\\'s usually safety cover on hand but not always. When the wind doesn\\\'t blow Dahab is idyllically flat and great for recreational paddling.
Location:
Portland. Weymouth, Dorset.
Spot type:
Flat water with W winds. Can be choppy with any wind from other directions. Can be lots of other water users about.
Conditions:
Weymouth, or rather Portland, is a huge expanse of harbour flat water that’s perfect for beginner and recreational SUP on calmer days. If there’s any breeze expect to be joined by all manner of wind driven craft as they race up and down the flats with Chesil beach blocking all the chop. Easterly winds can kick up more flotsam but it never gets too rolling like many open sea locations. There’re a handful of hire/retail outlets close by that’ll sort all your paddle boarding needs. Whilst Weymouth Town itself is a thriving, buzzing coastal town where you’ll find everything you need for eats, drinks, sleep and so on. Tides need to be taken account of when paddling any open water as do offshore winds. And avoid ferries and any other big boat traffic.
Location:
Bantham, and River Avon, South Hams, Devon.
Spot type:
South Devon beach break that gets a great wave on its day. Summer sees flatter conditions. Can be choppy in ope water. Awesome adventure paddling in the tidal River Avon. Be careful of currents!
Conditions:
South Hams and the iconic beach of Bantham always draws a crowd when the surf’s firing. It’s an awesome SUP break on its day for the experienced. With the ever present Burgh Island looming in the background. Being a south facing spot, however, means Bantham doesn’t always get swell. In which case it’s great for flat water adventure SUP. Heading up the River Avon that flows into Bantham is a cracking adventure, Use the tide to head north before ferry gliding back on the ebb. Bantham can get busy with surfers so watch out for crowds. Also, watch the rips if there is surf. Head into Kingsbridge for local eats and drinks or over to Salcombe for a more boaty vibe. If you are heading to Bantham then the advice is get there early during summer to snag your parking place.
For a more in depth guide hit this link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvVeO7QymQM
Location:
Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Wales.
Spot type:
Well frequented tidal beach that can be flat or choppy depending on wind and swell.
Conditions:
Rhosneigr (or Rhossi as it’s known) is a watersports epicenter of North wales. Situated on the island of Anglesey there are plenty of watersports enthusiasts of all types who descend upon the area for fun and frolics. If you get a flat calm day then recreational paddle boarding is the go. As is heading off on adventure SUP jaunts around headlands and such. There are plenty more paddling options in the area too, depending what you’re after and Mother Nature’s mood on the day. There’s a watersports shop right on the beach with some accommodation and other amenities locally. Busier towns aren’t that far away.
Location:
Birmingham Shipping canal, Birmingham.
Spot type:
Super sheltered, flat water inner city canal network.
Conditons:
Birmingham’s shipping canal network was, for a long time, pretty inaccessible. And to be honest you wouldn’t have wanted to put in with how filthy and obstruction filled they were. Following a massive revamp by Birmingham City Council the canals are now much cleaner and perfectly applicable for paddle boarding activities. A number of schools and hire businesses are available to guide you along. Or, if you prefer, there’s option to put in yourself and discover some inner Brum SUP. There are still some hazards on the canal. Water can flow quicker at certain times of year and debris can remain an issue in certain spots. Getting in and out may also be tricky depending on how high sided the banks are. Being central Birmingham you’re right in the middle of where eateries, drinking establishments, shops and so on are.
Location:
Front Street, Pembroke Dock, Wales.
Spot type:
Tidal harbour with mostly flat to choppy water.
Conditions:
Front Street, Pembroke Dock, is a slightly off the beaten track put in that gives access to Milford Haven estuary. The small car park, adjacent to a run of terraced houses, is actually quite secluded compared to the rest of the area. Once afloat you’ll have the run of the waterway up to Neyland (where you could stop for a quick refreshments stop, or down towards the power station. We’d suggest keeping away from here due to the huge sea tankers that come and go. It’s much quieter to the right. This being a tidal estuary you’ll need to be right on the money for tides and currents. And watch out for lots of boating traffic. There are plenty of facilities close by, including bed and breakfast accommodation right opposite the put in.
Location:
Rest Bay, Porthcawl, Wales.
Spot type:
Open water, surfing beach that disappears at high tide.
Conditions:
Rest Bay is one of four beaches to choose in Porthcawl. It’s the town’s main surfing beach with Coney, Trecco and Newton the others. Rest Bay can be flat for waves in the summer but bumpy during the off season. As with any wave venue it’s down to wind direction whether you score clean conditions or not. At high tide the beach disappears, with rocks and reef just below surface ready to take fins if you’re not aux fait with the area. As the water recedes the beach massively opens up and connects with other expanses of sand either side. If the conditions are calm adventure paddlers have plenty of space for SUP touring. Porthcawl itself has all the usual trappings of a seaside resort so you’ll be well served with choices of places to head post-paddle.
Location:
Eastbourne, East Sussex.
Spot type:
Tidal, open water SUP spot that can be flat, often choppy and sometimes gets a ridable wave.
Conditions:
Eastbourne is your classic seaside resort with a busy promenade and beachside road that gives way to sandy expanses at low water and shingle at high tide. Facing E it doesn’t bear the full brunt of SW storms and remains quite flat, if choppy at times. There’s a vibrant paddle board scene in Eastbourne with plenty out on good weather days. A coastal town with plenty of amenities and facilities Eastbourne is close to Brighton and could offer shelter if it’s too windy down that way. Occasionally E’bourne does get a wave but it’s mostly in winter. Many stand up paddlers in Eastbourne head to Seven Sisters Country Park for their SUP fix as this is an even more applicable spot for beginners and intermediates.
Location:
Seven Sisters Country Park, Cuckmere, East Sussex.
Spot type:
Meandering river that can tidal in some areas. Very sheltered though, even being next to the coast.
Conditions:
Seven Sisters Country Park is an expanse of low lying land and a meandering oxbow river (Cuckmere) that snakes its way to the sea. Seven Sisters refers to the seaward facing chalk cliffs. But it’s the river that holds most appeal for SUPers. There’s a watersports centre that offers SUP tours and lessons on the river as it’s a safer more sheltered location than the nearby open coastal water. A choice route is heading towards Cuckmere Haven and the coast, literally going with the flow. Currents do need to be kept in mind. And get out in some places along the route can be tricky. The Cuckmere Inn can be used a refreshment stop if you wish. But other than that there’s not much else in the area. You’ll need to travel to one of the surrounding towns for more choice.
Location:
Cromer, Norfolk.
Spot type:
O[en water, tidal venue that can be great on its day for waves. Often choppy but does get its share of flat calm periods.
Conditions:
A traditional Victorian seaside resort, complete with pier, Norfolk’s Cromer Beach is a tidal open water venue that can feature swell and flat water depending on conditions. Open to northerly North Sea swells the spot tends get waves in winter although on rare occasions this can also happen in summer too. For high season paddlers Cromer is a recreational or adventure SUP spot. There are some decent touring routes to choose from or just stay close to the launch. High tide can see shore dump if it’s breezy or there’s swell running. And being coastal means tides and currents should be kept in mind. If paddling close to the pier then exercise caution as you can easily become entangled with the pier pylons. Cromer has plenty to keep you entertained off the water but it does get busy. Car parking is on the cliff and the walk down is fairly steep – especially with SUP gear.
Location:
Old Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered tidal venue that can be awesome for coastal touring.
Conditions:
Old Hunstanton Beach is a northerly facing stretch of Norfolk coastline. It’s quite tidal. On the ebb flow sand and shingle are exposed with good access for all kinds of watersports. The tide continues to flow out quite a way leaving plenty of room and quite a walk with your gear. There are various route choices for SUP adventures when conditions are favourable. If it’s breezy then the water gets quite choppy and rippy. The beach shelves gently though and is a fairly safe place to paddle – especially for families. It’s also a great spot for a sunset paddle as the vistas are great. Parking can be busy in high summer. Hunstanton itself gets quite lively. But there’s plenty there for post-paddle fun and frolics.
Location:
The Norfolk Broads, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Extremely sheltered network of canals that cover an extensive paddling area across both Norfolk and Suffolk.
Conditions:
The Broads straddle both Norfolk and Suffolk counties and are a network of navigable rivers and lakes. Although the whole area is referred to as the Norfolk Broads. They’re perfect for paddle boarding with riders being able to connect many different routes. Adventure SUP is the go here as there’s plenty to discover atop your SUP. Formed after flooding peat works the Broads are now a designated national park. Paddlers should check if any restrictions are in place, although some restrictions are questionable in their legality. Other boating traffic will need to kept clear of and there are currents in places. Sometimes you’ll also come across obstacles that need to be rounded or portaged (if possible). The many villages and towns will be where you’ll find those essentials and such.
Location:
The Haven, Boston, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Flat water, sheltered paddling spot that takes you through the heart of Boston, Lincs.
Conditions:
Boston’s The Haven River is a tidal shipping waterway that allows access to the Lincolnshire port town and back to the Boston Deeps at The Wash. Being tidal there’s moving water on The Haven to be aware of. And also boat traffic. Yellowbelly Paddle Boarding school is based in Boston and uses many of the The Haven’s tributaries. It’s a sheltered location and does OK in wind. Beginners and advanced paddlers alike will find favour here. You have a choice of put ins but be aware access isn’t always straightforward in some areas. Also, you mightn’t find an easy exit point if things don’t go as planned. Best advice is get in touch with Phil May at Yellowbelly SUP school for more in depth paddle board info.
Location:
Carsington Water, Derbyshire.
Spot type:
Inland lake that can be flat but does get choppy if windy.
Conditions:
Carsington Water is a picturesque reservoir in Derbyshire. It’s an outdoor sports and leisure hub offering all types of tuition and guiding, including SUP. You need to contact the watersports centre to launch, which is a small fee. If you’re looking for tuition then this is pre-bookable. Weekends and school holidays are extremely busy with groups but Carsington’s open all year so you should find a suitable time for a paddle. You can buy a season pass if you intend to paddle here regularly. The lake does get breezy and choppy, and with it being a large expanse of water the chop can build up. Mostly, though, it’s a sheltered flat water location that great for beginners and those fancying a leisurely paddle. The surrounding Derbyshire countryside is also worth a mooch when you’re not on the water.
Location:
Scarborough South Beach, Scarborough, Yorkshire.
Spot type:
Open sea put in that does offer some shelter in certain weather. Can be good for first SUP surfing forays.
Conditions:
The Yorkshire seaside town of Scarborough has been attracting visitors for years. Boasting two bays (north and south) it’s the south beach that’s the more livelier of the two. For paddle boarding it’s also the flattest with most shelter. It can get surf – especially during winter – but Scarborough south isn’t as wavy as its northern sibling. For recreational SUPers you can learn the ropes of paddling here. Or those looking for some SUP adventure may want to start their Yorkshire coast meandering at Scarb south. Being an open water tidal venue there are currents and water flow to be aware of. There are also plenty of other water users to avoid. The shoreline is flanked with typical seaside resort amusement arcades and fast food outlets. And being a town you’ll have plenty of other post-paddling choices.
Location:
Tankerton Beach, Whitstable, Kent.
Spot type:
Tidal venue that offers mellow coastal paddling at the right time. Can be choppy in wind.
Conditions:
Whitstable’s Tankerton Beach is an exposed, steep shelving beach that features shingle and shore dump at high tide with more sand at low. It doesn’t receive that much proper ground swell but can be quite choppy and rippy with certain conditions. When the water glasses off it’s a pleasant and airy place to paddle. There’s plenty of parking – although high season is still busy. You’ll need to keep clear of the groynes and watch out for other boat traffic. Especially if heading off on SUP adventures. The town has plenty to keep you amused off the water. The Cathedral City of Canterbury isn’t too much of a drive.
Location:
Isle of Sheppey, Kent.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered, heavily tidal location with varied paddling options depending on tidal state and weather.
Conditions:
The Isle of Sheppey is a heavily tidal location where it\\\'s possible to circumnavigate the island. The local dinghy sailing club has been hosting a round Sheppey race for years. In recent times there have been a bunch of paddle boarders who\\\'ve taken on the challenge. It\\\'s roughly 30 miles with plenty of big boat traffic and other hazards to be aware of. There are lots of mud flats here with get outs being potentially ticky. As an experienced adventure SUP location it\\\'s a great spot though.
Location:
Paris Plage, Le Touquet, Pais De Calais, France.
Spot type:
Exposed open water location that can be good for touring SUP. Very choppy if windy. Often rippy.
Conditions:
Le Touquet is a buzzing, vibrant French seaside town that gets super busy during summer holidays. Parisians descend here for weekends away and holidays with much white sand to make use of. Beach bars and amusements line the beachfront and sands. This all said parking can be surprisingly accessible. The launch is heavily tidal with waters ebbing a fair distance. As it pushes back in the beach shrinks but is still accessible. It can be quite choppy afloat and other water users do need to be kept clear of. Lifeguards are on duty should you require assistance. Paris Plage is good for recreational paddling or starting your SUP touring journey. For instance round into the estuary. Just watch the currents.
Location:
La Base Nord, Le Touquet, France
Spot type:
Sheltered, tidal lagoon that dries out at low water. Rippy in the mouth but can be the best option for flat water paddling in the area.
Conditions:
At high tide, there\'s a small slip of sand next to the Centre Nautique de la Baie de Canche that gives free public access to the water. This is a sheltered flat water spot with sand dunes to the west blocking open sea swell. You\\\'ll find plenty of other watersports nuts afloat in high season. The local watersports centre runs lessons and hire. You can also launch from one of their slipways for a small fee. Currents are strong at certain stages of tide and there\\\'s also quicksand in the area to watch out for. Next to the centre you\\\'ll find a decent (if expensive) restaurant. And there\\\'s eBike, eScooter and segway hire onsite. La Touquet Centre Ville isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Slade Harbour, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Small area of sheltered tidal water that can be good for learning.
Conditions:
Slade Harbour is a super sheltered paddling spot that\'s used by local activities centre Shielbaggan. If there\'s any kind of wind or big swell activity you can still get a short session in the bag. Although it\'s not a big area. And as the tide drops you get strong currents flowing out. Being a harbour there\'s also working boat traffic. But it\'s still relatively quiet. Parking isn\'t extensive and there\'s a small shop and toilet facilities. For experienced paddlers it\'s more of a start/stop point for adventure paddling.
Location:
Boyce\'s Bay, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sem sheltered tidal stretch that offers flat water paddling, choppy water or waves depending on conditions. Very quiet.
Conditions:
Boyce\'s Bay sits a little way inside the Waterford Estuary on the Hook Peninsula. That said it still picks up swell when there\\\'s a wave running. Albeit only from W quadrants. Surf wraps in and can serve up a fast, dumping wall with a decent pulse. It goes pretty flat in summer though and can be good for recreational paddling and adventure. There is parking but it\'s limited and next to a farm down a single track road. Be courteous. There are no real amenities on site.
Location:
Grange Beach, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Great first time open sea location for paddlers wanting to tackle tidal waters.
Conditions:
Grange Beach all but disappears at high tide. But as the water ebbs a vast expanse of sand is revealed. Though very tidal Grange Beach is also quite sheltered. Only on massive winter swells does it really get a wave. and even then it\'s a soft breaking, mellow affair. Shielbaggan Activities Centre uses this spot regularly for teaching kayaking, SUP and windsurfing. Parking is pretty good. There\\\'s no real car park but the road leading to the beach is wide. It\\\'s then a steep walk down an access runway with kit. A few small shops are close by. And an ice cream van does make an appearance from time to time. Do be aware of the strong currents flowing in and out of the estuary to the left.
Location:
Tramore Beach. County Waterford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Open sea, wave venue that\'s exposed to the elements.
Conditions:
Tramore Beach is a center of surfing excellence in Ireland. That isn\'t to say it gets the best waves - it doesn\'t. But it has a buzzing scene with plenty of surf/SUP schools/hire centers and is a great place to hone your skills. The waves never get massive, although Tramore has its day. Instead, the gently shelving beach is an easy access location for all sorts of watersports. Onsite you\'ll find a surf shop, that also deals in SUP gear. You also have the obligatory kiss me quick style seaside attractions, cafes, bars and restaurants. Tramore does get busy but there\\\'s loads of room. Waterford is a short drive away for anyone wanting some town vibes.
Location:
Oysterhaven Beach, Oysterhaven, County Cork. Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered tidal estuary that can be flat or choppy depending on conditions.
Conditions:
Oysterhaven Beach is really a tidal estuary access point. At high tide it disappears - although you can still put in from the slip. Oysterhaven activities Centre is also based here. The set up teaches all manner of watersports (including SUP). Out of high season you may be abe to rent paddle boards. This launch gives access to the rest of estuary where SUP adventures abound. There\\\'s plenty to discover. Just be mindful of tidal currents and other hazards in certain places. Other than Oysterhaven activities Centre there\\\'s not much else here. Drive to Kinsale for a buzz.
Location:
Garretstown Beach, Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed beachbreak that can serve up a SUP friendly wave. Can also be good for recreational paddles in summer when it\'s flatter.
Conditions:
Garretstown Beach is Cork/Kinsale\'s local surf spot. It gets pretty busy with or without waves. For swell G\'Town is more consistent than you\'d think. Yet it still goes mostly flat during summer. Launching here gives access to the Old Head of Kinsale route (the headland to the left). With favourable weather and paddler experience this is a fun route to tick off. watch out for currents and rocks though. Parking at Garretstown is fairly good, although still tricky in summer. Facilities are onsite with Kinsale not that far away where you\\\'ll find even more.
Location:
Fountainstown Beach, County Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Super sheltered, but tidal location that\'s great for SUP. When it does get a wave it\'s really paddle boarding friendly.
Conditions;
Fountainstown Beach rarely gets a wave. Instead, it\'s a sheltered E facing beach that\'s a good entry to coastal paddling. There are still things to watch out for, such as fast flowing tides. But it\\\'s fairly safe with good access. If you do score a freeak pulse of swell the wave is soft breaking and perfect for SUP. Anyone with knowledge and understanding will find a fun adventure paddling route along the small estuary. Parking is pretty good with a decent sized car park behind the beach. And there\'s an activities center and small shop on site. Cork is a short drive away for more city vibes.
Location:
Long Strand, Castlefreke, County Cork, Ireland
Spot type:
Regional classic, super exposed surf spot that can be good for touring SUP at times.
Conditions:
Castlefreke\'s Long Strand Beach is an exposed stretch of coastline that picks up thumping surf on its day. Facing SW the spot\'s open to wind and waves and can often be very choppy. It does go flatter summer and can be a quiet location for some adventure SUP fun. There\\\'s a static caravan site close by and parking can be good. Little other facilities in the area though. The next beach E is Red Strand which can offer more shelter and perhaps a cleaner wave if SUP surfing\\\'s on the agenda. Surf N SUP West Cork operate out of Warren Beach, a little further west, and can deliver SUP lessons and tours.
Location:
Warren Beach, Rosscarberry, West Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Fairly sheltered, good fun beach break that\'s great for SUP surfing.
Conditions:
Warren Beach is s stone\'s throw away from Rosscarberry Town. Rosscarberry Town is apparently one of the most overlooked town\'s in the area. The beach also. Warren Beach is more sheltered than some spots close by but still enjoys a wave or two. It\'s a good location for taking those first steps in waves. On flat days there\\\'s a whole load of adventure SUP routes to choose from. Surf N SUP West Cork operate here so give them a shout for more info.
Location:
Rosscarberry Lagoon, Rosscarberry, West Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered lagoon that does get moderately choppy if wind is present. Mostly flat though.
Conditions:
Rosscarberry Lagoon is the result of damming and creating a causeway across the Ross Estuary, formed as part of the postal service road network between 1810-1814. The natural lagoon is now a haven for watersports activities with SUP and other watersports on offer via The Lagoon Activities Centre. A great place to learn and improve on sheltered waters you can rent or take lessons in a very safe and secure location. Rosscarberry Town is often described as being an overlooked Irish destination so definitely worth checking. Plenty of local amenities with Warren Beach just a stone\\\'s throw away.
Location:
Barleycove Beach, West Cork, Ireland
Spot type:
Picturesque surfing beaches out on the fringes of West Cork. Great for recreational SUP when conditions are right.
Conditions:
Barleycove Beach is right out on the fringes of West Cork. It\\\'s a haven for those who live in Cork City at weekends. Offering a degree of seclusion and peace you can see why. Although it\\\'s definitely busier these days. Barleycove is an OK beach for some SUP surfing. The sand banks are ever changing, and it\\\'s a little sheltered, but can be decent on its day. Currents and tides need to be kept in mind. The estuary behind the beach can be good for a paddle, if you know what\\\'s going on with tides. Be aware there are limited get outs as it\\\'s mostly mud flat and soft sand. In the village there\\\'s accommodation and some amenities but it\\\'s certainly not super extensive.
Location:
Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland.
Spot type:
Exposed open water SUP spot that\'s great for surfing and adventure SUP depending on the day.
Conditions:
Watched over by the looming Bamburgh Castle the beach is noted as one of the most consistent surf spots on this section of coast. Whilst there is a village behind the sand Bamburgh is pretty isolated. You\\\'ll need to be mindful of the usual coastal hazards such as tides, currents, wind and large swell. Smaller surf days can be good for getting to grips with SUP surfing. and flat days in summer can be great for coastal cruises. The water\\\'s usually quite cold here - this being the North Sea. So wear approrpriate SUP clothing. Holy Island is nearby, one of the most important places as far as early Christianity goes.
Location:
The Lake District, Cumbria.
Spot type:
Scenic flat water paddling among hills, fells and valleys.
Conditions:
Over the last few years The Lakes has become a real hot spot for paddle boarding. With so many flat water lake locations to choose from you\'re spoilt as a paddler. The biggest challenge you\\\'ll face is rain. It does rain a fair bit here. And there\\\'s often wind gusting off the fell. But travel a little further and you\\\'ll probably find a sheltered location regardless. The lake water can be cool - even in summer. And weather can change fast here. So be aware. Also, The Lake District is busy and parking spots aren\\\'t as abundant as you\\\'d think. Lots of activity centers exist, many of which offer paddle boarding lessons and/or hire. Some boat traffic on certain lakes (like Windermere) need to be kept clear of. If SUP\\\'s not happeniong then go climb a mountain.
Location:
Tiree, Hebrides, Scotland.
Spot type:
Exposed Hebridean island offering a varied and diverse set of paddling options.
Conditions:
Tiree, for such a small Hebridean island, has so many options for paddling - including a sheltered inland lake! Noted for its watersports, white sand beaches and azure coloured water you would think you\\\'re somewhere more tropical on sunny days. SUP surfing, flat water paddling and everything else in between is what you\\\'ll find here. Wild Diamon operates a watersports school and hire center on the island. Accommodation options are fairly extensive. although high season does get very busy on Tiree. Parking and facilities are good in certain spots. Whilst at others you\\\'ll be very much on your own. Get the ferry from Oban or even fly if you wish.
Location:
Lac de Maine, Angers, Loire, France.
Spot type:
Super sheltered inner city lake that can offer perfect flat water. Occasionally choppy if windy.
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Location:
La Tranche sur Mer, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
Lots of choice for paddling different conditions in along a small amount of French coastline. Everything from waves to flat water.
Conditions:
La Tranche sur Mer sits on the Vendee coast and is watersports central. Everything from SUP, surfing windsurfing, foiling and sailing is covered here. Due to the orientation of the coastline, it\\\'s possible to do multiple sports in one day. The wind generally starts off E in the morning before a thermal W switches on around lunchtime. Paddling in the leigh of the wind is doable. Or head up the coast for a downwinder. If there are waves then various banks pop up depending on the tide. Watch out for currents and some rocks/reef in places. LTSM gets busy in summer with all manner of watercraft. So keep clear. Also, be aware of other hazards such as buoy markers and mooring lines. If it\\\'s not happening for SUP at your chosen put in head up or down the coast a little. The lake can also offer a safe beginner environment. Alternatively, head over to Ile de Re for more options.
Location:
Le Goulet, Jard sur Mer, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered open water venue that\'s flat in the morning during summer with an afternoon thermal breeze kicking in. Can get mellow waves.
Conditions:
Much like La Tranche sur Mer Jard sur Mer\'s Le Goulet launch is a well set ut location that benefits from a curving of the coast just upwind. Inside, at high tide (even when it\\\'s blowing moderately out back) it\\\'s pretty sheltered. Rolling swell does pulse in and break in certain spots. The waves are mellow though and great for learning the art of SUP surfing. Rocks are a factor, although not specifically reef. You just need to be aware and shoes might be worth it. As the tide recedes you get more sand and rocks exposure. There\\\'s a car park right at the spot but it gets busy. More options are just across the road behind the beach. Toilets and a few beach bars are available for post-SUP refreshments. And there\\\'s a surf shop back towards Plage de Conches or for even more head to La Tranche sur Mer. This is also French resort territory so there\\\'s plenty of accommadation available.
Location:
Biscarosse, Aquitane, France.
Spot type:
Famed surf location that can have everything from heavy waves to mellow SUP gliders. Very tidal.
Conditions:
Biscarosse, and its close neighbour Mimizan are typical south west French beaches that wave heads will adore. Less busy than the more headline Biarritz, Anglet and Hossegor to the south Biscarosse offers similar conditions on the water. This is surf ville - although summer can be flatter (just like every other northern European spot). If there\\\'s a pulse, however, then depending on the size can make or break your sesh. Smaller surf is doable for most experienced paddlers. Just watch out for busy line ups. On larger swells it gets a bit hairier with more skills needed. Waves can dump and break hard close to the shore. And there will often be strong currents. Occasionally flat water allows a bit of adventure SUP. For those less competent there\\\'s a lake just back from the beach. Just keep clear of marine traffic. Amenities abound in this part of France so you\\\'ll be well catered for.
Location:
Biarritz, Aquitane, France.
Spot type:
Surf City, France. With lots of wave options and some flat water.
Conditions:
Surf City France - or Biarritz - has abundant beaches and put ins that give access to a variety of waves. There\\\'s a vibrant SUP surfing scene but it does get especially busy during summer. Waves can be mellow, depending where you head, but there\'ll almost always be a frothing pack in the water. When waves do become solid you\\\'ll need your skills and wits as these can be waves of consequence. Currents and strong tides need to be kept in mind. And you\\\'ll need to arrive early to secure your spot - both in the car park and in the water. Being a city you\\\'ll find all you need Biarritz and more. Plus, there are plenty of surrounding locations with even more to keep you entertained. Head a little north for mellow lake style paddling if the beaches become too much.
A remote County Mayo Beach Carrownisky is open to pretty much all of what the North Atlantic can throw its way. Location:
Carrownisky, County Mayo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed and quiet surf beach that can 0ffer adventure SUP opportunities when no waves are present.
Conditions:
Therefore you\'ll certainly find waves here if that\'s what you\'re after. It does go flatter in summer with more touring SUP opportunities on offer. Parking is mostly good and there are toilet facilities on hand Heading back into Louisburgh you\\\'ll find a couple of shops and pubs. Westport is the closest town, however. Paddling at Corrownisky you\\\'ll need to be aware that if things go awry you\\\'ll be on your own. That said this is a magnificently picturesque part of the world and definitely worth a look.
Location:
La Terriere, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
West facing surf beach that can be great for SUP touring as well.
Conditions:
La Terriere Plage is a popular destination for those looking for some wave action. At low tide, the wave peels better than high when it can dump. It\\\'s still pretty mellow on small swells though. Flatter days can be better for SUP touring in either direction along the coast. Summer is super busy with the shallows extremely crowded. Early morning or late evening can yield less hectic times. There\\\'s a surf school onsite hiring foamie surfboards, bodyboards and SUPs. They also do lessons. Lifeguards patrol the sands and the car park\\\'s pretty big. Although does also get rammed. Toilets are on site, as is a beach bar. Head back into the village for few more shops and refreshment options. La Tranche sur MEr is just along the coast. as is Saint Vincent sur Jard in the opposite direction.
Location:
Plage publique, Nice, Alpes-Maritimes, France.
Spot type:
Cosmopolitan city beach that can be flat or choppy depending on wind.
Conditions:
The French Riviera, with Nice being the capital of the area, is a buzzing resort. If you like celebrity spotting you may get lucky with St Tropez and Monaco being close by. Plage publique is the main put in along the cities seafront promenadee. It\\\\\\\'s a stoney beach that gives access to deep Mediterranean water. It\\\\\\\'s mostly flat although can get choppy if there\\\\\\\'s breeze. Any swell does also dump directly onto the beach. For adventure paddlers you can tour either right or left depending on your preferences and weather. Parking can be tricky along the promenande with lots of bars, restaurants shops and accommodation. The beach also gets hectic in high summer. Nice center offers a pleasant experience for anyone wanting a slice of French cafe culture. Plenty of eateries, boulangeries, charcuteries and such can also be found here. The old town walls are worth checking out.
Location:
Spot type:
Famed, experts only big wave spot.
Conditions:
Often referred to as the Hawaii of the Med Sardinia gets a healthy amount of surf (believe it or not). The jewel in the island\\\'s wave crow in Capo Mannu. Jutting into the sea CM picks up any waves going. But it\\\'s not for the inexperienced. This is a hardcore wave spot that features a rocky, urchin infested bottom and tricky put in/get out. Paddlers will need to be well versed in the art of wave riding to tackle Capo as there\\\'ll be no rescue should it all go awry. Definitely worth a look, however, if there\\\'s surf. Just for the spectacle alone.
Location:
Porto Pollo, Sardinia.
Spot type:
Flat water, to choppy if windy, with a choice of two bays to explore.
Conditions:
Porto Pollo is a premier windsurf resort that legend Robby Naish described as perfect. Featuring two bays the wind doesn\\\'t blow all the time leaving glassy summer mornings perfect for a spot of SUP. Abundant watersports centers onsite have paddle board hire and facilities. Plenty of accommodation can be found around Porto Pollo but it does get busy. And when the wind blows expect hordes to be afloat, whizzing back and forth. It\\\'s possible to downwind at this time but you\\\'ll need to be aware of what\\\'s going on. And have suitable experience.
Location:
Ibiza, Balearics, Spain.
Spot type:
Dance capital of the world and famed party island that also has a decent amount of SUP spots to choose from.
Conditions:
The party island of Ibiza mightn\\\'t be an obvious choice for a SUP holiday but away from the humming and buzzing of club land paddlers will discover an amazingly chilled and authentic Balearic experience. SUP has grown considerably on the island with a number of rental outlets and schools on the island. Ibiza\\\'s waters are mostly calm, although there are days when the chop, swell and wind build. You\\\'ll need to watch out for marine traffic in certain areas during summer. And it does get busy. Plenty of amenities can be found on the White Isle. Adventure paddlers with experience should have a look at the route across to neighboring Formentera. Just know what you\\\'re doing if you attempt the crossing.
Location:
Fornells Bay, Minorca, Balearics, Spain.
Spot type:
Super sheltered Med location that can get moderately choppy and breezy at times. Good for beginners.
Conditions:
Minorca\\\'s Fornells Bay is a haven for easy going watersports. It\\\'s open water but very sheltered. And whilst you do get breeze here (perfect for windsurfing and sailing) it\\\'s a very suitable SUP spot. Beginners and intermediates will do well here as Fornells is good for learning. There\\\'s a little current to keep in mind. And it does get choppy at certain points. Also, marine traffic and other water users should be kept clear of. You can find some amenities ashore, such as accommodation and hire centers. Whilst Minorce is busy during high season Fornells isn\\\'t quite as bombed out.
Location:
Peniche, Portugal.
Spot type:
Varied surf location, with some flat water, and also home to on of Europe\'s premier big waves - Nazare.
Codnitions:
Portugal\'s Peniche is the capital of surfing in the country with the fabled big wave spot of Nazare (Praia Norte) grabbing much media attention these days. Peniche isn\\\'t all big waves though. In fact, there are a number of flat water spots, suitable for SUP, in the area. Mellower waves can also be found if you fancy a spot of paddle surfing. The local towns and villages make the area particularly vibrant with plenty available for the traveller.
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Location:
West Beachlands, Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Exposed, and often choppy with wind West Beachlands can also be great for SUP friendly surf and flat water adventures.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-west-beachlands-hayling-island-hampshire/
Location:
Chichester shipping canal, Chichester, West Sussex.
Spot type:
Extremely sheltered flat water river that\'s great for touring, race training and beginners.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chichester-shipping-canal-chichester-west-sussex/
Location:
Chichester Harbour (south), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Heavily tidal, but super flat and perfect venue for beginners and improvers.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chichester-harbour-south-hayling-island-hampshire/
Location:
Easkey, Sligo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Noted surf spot that\'ll test even the most experience SUP surfers.
Conditions:
One of the best reef point break set ups in Ireland Easkey lefts and rights is a location for the experienced rider only. Shallow, rocky and often rippy there\'ll be other surfers out when it\\\'s good. If flat you could potentially do some flat water investigating here. But know your limits and the conditions. Amenities in the village. Car parking can be OK. More to explore along this coastline.
Location:
Doo Lough, County Mayo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Awe-inspiring flat water lake that has lots of history. Never busy.
Conditions:
Predominantly flat water this deep water lough is notable for the site where at least seven (and perhaps 20 or significantly more) starving people died after being \\\'forced to walk for miles to present themselves for inspection\\\'. The valley is notorious for sudden changes in weather - squalls are quick to sweep in. And the wind can ramp up significantly. The lough chop too. When it\\\'s flat, however, it\\\'s an awe inspiring spot for flat water SUP. Parking is right next to the water. Can is mostly cold. There isn\\\'t much else in the area apart from the local activities center. You\\\'ll need to drive for facilities.
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Location:
Plage de Morpoigne, Jard sur Mer, Vendee, France
Spot type:
Semi sheltered spot that gets choppy with wind. Can also have waves on good days.
Conditions:
Plage de Morpoigne sits in the harbour town of Jard sur Mer and offers two paddling areas depending on tide. Inside the marina you\\\'ll find high tide flat water. Outside on the main beach it\\\'s more exposed and can get choppy. On its day there\\\'s also a small wave that\\\'ll break. Boat traffic - especially during high summer - is a lot. At quieter times of the year you\\\'ll be more alone. The town has a small and quaint seafront with a few bars and restaurants that are pretty good value. Other amenities are available too. Parking is surprisingly easy - even in summer. Lifeguards also patrol during silly season months.
Location:
Wissant, Pais de Calais, France.
Spot type:
Huge sandy beach that gets decent swell on its day. Can often be choppy but also option for SUP touring when flat.
Conditions:
Wissant is a vast sandy beach at low tide that\\\'s a Mecca for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The whole town whiffs of sail sports. If there\\\'s a blow the waves can build up and be significant - even this far up the Channel. High tide sees the beach disappear and surf become more spread out. When the wind drops off residual swell can be left which is great for SUP surfing. On flatter days recreational paddling is the go. But be careful of the longshore drift current which can be strong. Lifeguards are in operation during summer. And there\\\'s a good deal of parking. Although hi top vehicles may struggle to get into many. Onshore, right next to the beach, you\\\'ll find a trendy windsurf/kitesurf bar where it\\\'s fun to hang out. There are others dotted along the promenade. The town has a decent amount of restaurants and bars and there\\\'s lots of accommodation. BUT. Wissant gets rammed. Being so close to Calais sees all manner of visitors descend on the place. It can be hard to move in August. There are some much quieter paddling spots to either the left or right of Wissant. SUP hire is available if you want it.
Location:
Wimereux, Pais de Calais, France.
Spot type:
Exposed and choppy if windy. Flat a great for recreational SUP and touring when calmer.
Conditions:
Wimereux is a bustling town close to Boulogne that has a vibrant SUP scene. The beach disappears at high tide and can be tricky to access and get out of. There\\\'s often lots of backwash - especially if there\\\'s any swell and/or wind. Sand appears as the tide recedes and it gets much flatter on the water. Busy on the promenade there are beach huts, restaurants, bars and a few shops. Plus the local sailing club and surf school. Wimereux can get a weak wave if there\\\'s solid swell. It tends to be best towards the river. Just watch the current here. The town has plenty to see and do. But as with all French coastal towns it gets packed in August.
Location:
Lahinch Beach, County Clare, Ireland.
Spot type:
Famed Irish surf spot that\'s also pretty good for SUP, depending on experience.
Conditions:
Lahinch Beach is a real surfing town that gets super busy during summer. Even out of season can see crowds when the waves are good. The main beach has slightly mellower waves than nearby spots. Some of which can be world class and not for the inexperienced. SUP surfing is popular in town but you do need to be respectful of surfers. Lahinch Town has decent amenities with restaurants, pubs, surf shops and accommodation. Parking can sometimes be tricky. Definitely worth exploring this part of Ireland\\\'s coast if you can.
Location:
Sandy Bay, Magherabeg, Castlegregory, County Kerry, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered, sometimes choppy, flat water location.
Conditions:
If you\\\'re heading to the Dingle Peninsula then Sandy Bay, on the opposite side of the more exposed Brandon Bay, offers much more shelter and flat water paddling. Jamie Knox Watersports is based here and the center hires kit and offers tuition. There are also plenty of other activities like surfing to make use of. All this area is a Mecca for watersports of all types. It can be popular in summer but goes quiet during winter. The weather may not be on your side though. Watch out for tides and currents. But do try a pint of black stuff in one of the local pubs.
Location:
Inch Beach, County Kerry, Dingle, Ireland.
Spot type:
Regional classic surf beach that has amazing vistas and amazing waves on its day.
Conditions:
A massive sand bar Inch Beach is cracking for waves and has enough room for all riders. Watch out for tides and currents flowing out of Castlemaine Harbour. Weather can be against you. But if you do score it Inch is an amazing place to paddle. Inch Reefs can also be worth a look if you have the skills. Dingle Town isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Carlingford Sailing Club, Carlingford Lough, Northern Ireland.
Spot type:
Flat to moderately choppy paddling on an inland lough.
Conditions:
Carlingford Lough is a Northern Irish fjord that can offer fairly sheltered paddling. It is tidal though so be aware of currents. Mostly Carlingford is a flat water paddling spot with easy access to surrounding towns. Carlingford Sailing Club is ok for beginners. Parking can be OK but it gets busy in summer.
Location:
Dollymount Strand, Dublin, Ireland
Spot type;
Dublin\'s main watersports beach. That also gets a ridable ferry wake with passing ships.
Conditions:
Dollymount is Dublin\\\'s main beach that has many paddlers and other water users frequenting. It can be quite choppy with a breeze and the current flowing in and out of the harbour strong. Passing ferries can kick up some ridable wake that local paddle surfers make use of. Alternatively, flat water touring is on the cards. Being Dublin there\\\'s plenty to see and do. Although Dollymount itself can be quieter than the city\\\'s center.
Location:
Lough Neagh, Antrim, Northern Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed lough that can often be choppy although does have it\'s fair share of flat water days too.
Conditions:
Lough Neagh is a large inland lough that can be great for downwind paddling or recreational SUP depending on conditions. Even though there\\\'s no tide there can be currents and heavy chop. Access can be easy or tricky depending on where you launch from Antrim has plenty of amenities and Belfast isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Lake Annecy, Haute-Savoie, France.
Spot type:
Highly regarded alpine lake where there\'s lots of SUP happening.
Conditions:
Fed by mountain springs Lake Annecy is a picturesque freshwater lake sitting at the foot of the French Alps. There\\\'s a buzzing paddle board scene in Annecy with riders putting in right through the year - even in winter! At 14.6km long and 3.2km wide there\\\'s plenty of space to find your own SUP adventure. Lake Annecy can get pretty windy at times with chop increasing. There\\\'s also a lot of boat traffic to watch out for in summer. And obviously the cold out of high season. You can always head up a mountain for some ski or snowboard action if SUP isn\\\'t happening. The annual Gla Gla SUP race happens at Lake Annecy which attracts loads of paddlers from across the globe.
Location:
Lac du Cheveril, Tignes, France.
Spot type:
Small alpine lake that offers flat water SUP.
Conditions:
Tignes is a well trodden ski resort occupying the Espace Killy area. Yet right in the heart of this mountain village is a fresh water lake that you can SUP on. Lac du Cheveril is 25 hectares of cool mountain water that comes alive with watersports during the summer months. Stand up paddle boarding is popular when you have to trade your ski and snowboard boots in. Tignes itself has plenty to offer visitors - as you\\\'d expect from a ski resort. And Lake annecy isn\\\'t too far away if you fancy another alpine lake to paddle on. The water can be quite cold and refreshing. And weather can chonge quickly. So be aware and know what\\\'s going on.
Location:
Spot type:
Huge lake that has a vibrandt SUP scene.
Conditions:
Lake Geneva is one of the biggest lakes in Western Europe. Sitting at the northern end of the Alps this crescent shape expanse of water is cracking for flat water SUP. Especially in summer. There are a number of SUP rental outlets and schools dotted along the lake\\\'s shores. Paddle boarding is very popular here. In summer the lake gets very busy and you have pleasure boat traffic to contend with. There are buoyed off areas though. Geneva is a colourful Swiss city that\\\'s worth exploring on non-paddling days. And if there\\\'s snow you can always head up the moutain for a spot of different board sliding.
Location:
Lake Silvaplana, Engadine Valley, Grisons, Switzerland
Spot type:
Picturesque alpine lake that\'s flat during summer mornings,. Windy in the afternoon.
Conditions:
Lake Silvaplana is perhaps an unlikely watersports Mecca. Yet even based high in the Swiss mountains Silvaplana enjoys a reputation for all types of watersports - including SUP. A glacial lake the water is pretty cool and fresh. But during summer, when the weather\\\'s warm, it\\\'s nice to cool off. The whole Engadin region is very picturesque and you\\\'ll have plenty of company with lots of visitors. On flat days the lake is great for flat water SUP. Watch out for summer thermal winds when you get quite a choppy water state. And plenty of windsurfers and foilers to avoid. There are some good camping spots in the area and each the Engadin Wind event takes place which see lots fo pro windsurfers and foilers compete. Worth a look if you\\\'re here during the latter part of summer. Of course, skiing and snowboarding is also an option in the Swiss Alps.
Location:
Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal.
Spot type:
Choppy to flat semi exposed spot.
Conditions:
Praia da Rocha is the main tourist in Portugal\\\'s Algarve region. As such it gets a lot of tourist traffic in summer. Not as wavey as the country\\\'s Atlantic coast there\\\'s potential for a wave or two in and among flat water paddling. Strong thermal offshore winds blow in summer so watch out for that. And in some locations rocks and reef are prevalent. Make sure you keep tides in mind as this is an open water location. There can be some great adventure paddling to be had. And the local towns have all you need.
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Location:
Ortakent, Yahsi Plaji, Bodrum, Turkey.
Spot type:
Exposed but calm SUP during summer mornings. Afternoons get windy and choppy.
Conditions:
Over the years there have been several watersports centers in this area of the Bodrum Peninsula. Both Neilson and Sunsail have operated at various points. Neilson still have their Ortakent resort here which you could make use of if a no hassle holiday was on your agenda. Alterantively, if you bring your own gear the whole is ripe for discovery by SUP. Summer mornings start off usually glassy. The wind then builds through the day with an afternoon thermal kicking in. This can sometimes be strong. When it\\\'s calm you\\\'re free to tour up and down the coast or across to the island out in the bay. Just be aware of weather changing and have your safety points ticked off. There are plenty of hotels and accommodations around Bodrum. And Bodrum city itself is very colourful and worth a visit. Turkey is still relatively cheap for a SUP holiday too.
Location:
Pomena, Mljet, Croatia.
Spot type:
Picturesque location with sheltered SUP on offer.
Conditions:
The island of Mljet is an idyllic oasis perfect for recreational paddling. a short boat ride from Dubrovnik this island is sleepy and chilled. Pomena is a small port town that does get its share of boat traffic during high season. You can easily keep clear though. There\\\'s a hotel and a handful of bars right on site but not much else on the island. On the water there\\\'s a close offshore island that shelteres Pomena from wind and chop. You can get clear of this and well into open water. If there is breeze as soon as you round the island the sea gets whipped up considerably. Paddling inside the harbour is fine just watch mooring lines and boats. Inoand there\\\'s a small lake that you can paddle on. But be courteous and respectful. You\\\'ll probably be the only ones.
Location:
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Spot type:
Cosmopolitan beach with access to flat/choppy water.
Conditons:
A place where those wanting to be seen hang out Dubrovnik\\\'s Banje Beach is a sweet little put in for anyone wanting to check out Dubrovnik\\\'s old town from the water. It can be fairly choppy with any breeze. And the constant buzz of boats kicks up more wake. Mostly though it\\\'s a flat water spot. Keep clear of the marina as that gets busy in summer. You may struggle to park right next to Banje so a walk could be in order. There\\\'s plenty to see and do away from SUP.
Location:
Sandhaven Beach, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, Northumbria.
Spot type:
Beach with potential for all kinds of SUP.
Conditions:
There\'s plenty of SUP going down in South Shields. Sandhaven Beach is the town beach and offers flat to choppy conditions depending on weather. Stay well clear of river mouth as currents are strong. Not to mention the BIG boat traffic going in and out. Lots to see and do here in the town. With some quieter SUP spots up and down the coast.
Location:
St Andrews, Scotland.
Spot type:
Noted for its golf course but the diverse SUP potential is also great.
Conditions:
If you like gold and SUP then St Andrews could be a paddle spot to hit up. Conditions on the water are typically tidal. You\\\'ll need to be aware of the tide flowing out of the River Eden. If it\\\'s calm the adventure SUP opportunities round here are great. When there\'s breeze the chop and current can increase. There\\\'s a paddle board school on-site offering tuition. And there\\\'s lots to discover in town. Edinburgh isn\\\'t a million miles away.
Location:
Thurso, Scotland.
Spot type:
World class Scottish reef break with other pretty good waves also in the area.
Conditions:
One of the most northerly surf breaks in the UK Thurso is held in high regard by those who love waves of consequence. Some of the breaks in the area are truly world class. It is possible to paddle some of these but you\\\'ll need experience and good surf etiquette. When it goes flat or the swell\\\'s small touring opportunities open up. Just watch the weather changing and the usual hazards of open tidal water. Thurso is a fairly busy town so you\\\'ll find plenty away from paddling.
https://mcconks.com/sup-backyards-calais-to-boulogne-cote-dopale-france/
Location:
St Ouen\'s, The Splash, Jersey, Channel Islands.
Spot type:
Main Jersey surf spot that has a vibrant SUP scene.
Conditions:
The heart of Jersey\'s surf scene The Splash in St Quen\'s Bay is a fairly consistent beach break that has a vibrant wave riding scene (including SUP). On swell days it\\\'ll be busy. On solid surf days it\\\'s challenging. Often it\'s very doable for those paddlers with experience though. watch out for rips and tidal currents. Plus rocks in some places. Windy conditions make it very choppy. and you may struggle with parking during summer. There\\\'s plenty to see and do on Jersey. With more paddle put ins elsewhere on the island.
Location:
Shetland, Scotland.
Spot type:
Extremely exposed at some put ins on Shetland, whilst others are more sheltered. Diverse and interesting paddling of all types.
Conditions:
Shetland has become increasingly popular for SUP in recent years. With lots of flat water and sheltered paddling locations, the most northerly spot in the UK is certainly one to tick off the bucket list. Wild weather and strong tides make Shetland sometimes tricky. It may be better with a guide. There\\\'re a couple of SUP schools on the island. Lerwick is the main town and you\\\'ll find plenty of amenities here.
Location:
Upper Tamar Lake, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Sheltered inland reservoir not too far from Bude.
Conditions:
Upper Tamar Lake is a sheltered, flat water location that\'s great for beginner, recreational or mellow touring SUP. With an onsite activities center (operated by the South West Lakes Trust) it\'s a location where you can take those first forays into paddle boarding. If windy then the lake gets moderately choppy but otherwise it\'s devoid of most watery ruffles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjm5FsH6MX8
Location:
Roadford Lake, Devon.
Spot type:
Inland flat water lake with some shelter.
Conditions:
Roadford Lake is another spot in the SW Lakes portfolio. With a circumference of 13 miles Roadford is the biggest of the SW lakes and as such is slightly more exposed to prevailing weather. It\'s a hotspot for flat water windsurfing but also paddle boarding. When there is wind Roadford can become quite choppy. Although you may still find shelter in certain areas. The onsite activities centre can arrange equipment hire or you can launch your own SUP for a small fee. Camping is available right next to the lake.
For a more in depth overiew of Roadford Lake hit this link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7sUva46KAk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAdZxliDiNc
Location:
Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall.
Spot type:
West facing, exposed regional classic beach break at the heart of teh UK\'s Surf City.
Conditions:
Small to big waves depending on time of year. Super busy in summer when it\'s likely to be smaller. The home of the Boardmasters Festival. Some surprisingly good SUP touring routes when weather permits.
For more info check out this article.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTFOMg6lJnU
Location:
Praa Sands, Cornwall.
Spot type:
South facing, slightly less exposed beach break that works on small to medium swells.
Conditions:
Being a south facing beach break Praa Sands doesn\'t get the lion\'s share of swell in the area. But it does do pretty well - especially in shoulder seasons.
Praa\'s waves unload on a shallow sand bar just a few yards offshore from the main beach. Big swells tend to close out in whomping fashion. Boards do break and bodies also get slammed to sea floor! Smaller waves offer fast, peeling walls which can be fun on a SUP.
It can be fairly busy when working, although not as much as some of the surrounding breaks. Access is via steep road down to the main beach car park. There\'s a beach cafe right overlooking the water.
Summer can be flat bit is ok for recreational paddling and some touring SUP.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53B3kirJKC4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guBUbCH2b78
Location:
Gyllngvase Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Beach right next to Falmouth town with tidal water that\'s mostly flat. Waves can appear on certain conditions.
Conditions:
For the most part Gyllyngvase Beach is a flat water, to choppy tidal area. On calmer days it\'s a nice mooch around the area. If the swell\'s making it in then there are two reef breaks either side of the beach that can work. These can get busy but they are doable on a SUP if you\'re experienced.
Plenty of amenities can be found in Falmouth itself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdE5QN3xf7k
Location:
Sennen Beach, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Exposed beach break that picks up the most amount of swell probably in all of Cornwall and Devon.
Conditions:
If there\'s no swell at Sennen there\'s really no swell - so the saying goes. Sennen Beach is probably the biggest swell magnet in all of the South West. As such, if you\'re after SUP surfing conditions this is your spot. Although be aware that if the surf\'s solid Sennen will be huge!
At low tide Sennen Cove, Sennen Beach and Gwynver all link up. Just watch out for tides and getting cut off.
Penzance isn\'t too far away if you\'re after a town. Alternatively, there are lots of nooks and crannies to investigate round here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0pd-JfPOqM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nQp7QwM7fQ
Location:
Salcombe North Sands Beach, Salcombe, South Hams, Devon.
Spot type:
Heavily tidal estuary beach that can get a wave but offers mostly flat water touring.
Conditions:
Inside the mouth of Salcombe Harbour Estuary you\'ll find North Sands Beach. You\'ll need to watch out for strong tides and boating traffic here. But get it right and the harbour can be a great place to SUP. On occasion, a wave rolls into North Sands which can provide mellow SUP surfing conditions. An offshore sand bar offers up bigger surf, but usually only in winter. You need to know what you\'re doing if thinking of surfing the sand bar.
Salcombe is a buzzing harbour town that has quite a chic feel. There\'s plenty to see and do here away from the water.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gduh2fT5PGw
Location:
Sandy Beach, Lyme Regis, Dorset.
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered tidal venue that offers flat water paddling in the leigh of the harbour wall. In winter you may find a wave breaking here although Fossil Beach may be better for that.
Lyme Regis is a buzzing town in summer that goes much quieter during winter. This is also the Jurassic Coast so away from SUP why not try your luck with finding evidence of dinosaurs?
There are some great touring SUP routes in this area. And on their day some decent wave venues. Seek and ye shall find.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8tqzvparYw
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next tropical paddleboard adventure getaway, for a long weekend away in your van, or simply a SUP day adventure, this page should give you all the supspiration you need!
We’ve broken this page down into Paddleboard backyards which are regions with multiple spots close together. These work well as inspiration for weekend or week away adventures. Some of these are UK, and some are international – choose your inspiration well
And the other type of spot is a bitesize paddle board travel guide – each article is a specific spot, and the article contains safety, accessibility and other important information.
If you want to add your favourite SUP spot, please drop us an in**@mc*****.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>email.
PLEASE NOTE: The map below is still a work in progress.
If you’re looking for general information on what type of waterways you’re allowed to paddle, and what licences you need, please check out this article
Location:
Pagham, Arun, West Sussex.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location that can feature flat water, choppy seas or waves at times.
Conditions:
Pagham is, for many local SUP surfers, a wave venue that can be offshore when winter south westerlies blow. The offshore sand/shingle bank does move about but on its day the surf can be super fun.
At other times is mostly a flat/choppy water venue that gives access to a few different adventure SUP routes.
Click here for more info on hazards, access, amenities, and much more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzXOuGiJLw4
Location:
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Spot type:
Open water, tidal, rocky and remote west facing beach break that almost disappears at high tide leaving only reef.
Conditions:
Being open to the Atlantic Marloes Sands picks up plenty of surfable juice. And at low tide can be an idyllic beach break. With a few small rocks to watch out for. It’s a remote place, due to difficult access, but this remoteness makes Marloes equally very beautiful. On flat water days it’s a dreamy spot for recreational paddling. There are a few adventure SUP routes but you’ll need to know the area and have your emergency get outs sorted!
Click here for more info on hazards, conditions, parking etc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHAJuNy8Hfc
Location: Manorbier, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type: Open water, tidal location that whilst often flat in summer gets a fairly hefty wave on the right swell. More cove like than true open beach there’s a significant reef to the right that you’ll appreciate or not.
Conditions: In winter you get waves so Manorbier is predominantly a surf spot. Outside of this you get flatter times – especially in summer. That said freak swells can still chuck up a SUP surfing peak or two during high season. And if there’s onshore wind then you’ll definitely get something. Even if it doesn’t look paddle friendly at that point. Manorbier’s tidal range is pretty big so best be aware of how the beach changes as water ebbs and flows.
Click here for more information about hazards, parking facilities and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDF5S7qTTlA
Location:
Milford on Sea, Lymington, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location nestled in the shadow of Hurst Castle.
Conditions:
Milford on Sea is the closest proper open tidal water spot to Lymington. It’s open to swell and does get its fair share of proper waves – especially during winter. Unfortunately, the beach is very steep meaning shore dump – particularly at high tide – can be a bit full on. There’s also the tide factor to keep in mind. Hurst Spit is a one mile shingle bank that shelters mudflats and salt marsh, known as Keyhaven. The tide flows out of the marshes and can create currents which may present hazards. Also, being at the mouth of The Solent there’s also flow to keep in mind. And to a certain degree large boat traffic, which also needs keeping clear of.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, facilities and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBwPCta0G60
Location:
Bude Canal, Bude, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Manmade, inland waterway sheltered from all weather and non-tidal.
Conditions:
Bude canal is very sheltered. Whilst not what you think of when visiting Bude (as the town’s more associated with surfing) the canal can serve as flat water respite when the Atlantic’s not playing ball. The start point is right at Summerleaze Beach and it runs a total of 35 miles. There’s no real flow but a reservoir built at Virworthy does feed the canal so in parts paddlers may experience moving water.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, facilities, and much more
Location:
Instow to Northam Burrows (Torridge Estuary), North Devon.
Spot type:
Extremely tidal location that goes almost dry on big spring low tides. A lot of water moves here so getting it right is super important. It’s quite sheltered, however, with Atlantic swell not really making it this high into the estuary. Wind can sometimes be a factor though.
Conditions:
Flat to choppy water dictated by tide and breeze are what you’ll find here. Some wake from boat traffic and very occasionally massive swell can push in from the open sea. Although this is rare and even if it does the waves will be small and weak.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and amenities
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0LKcigJgBA
Location:
Stand up paddle boarding Abbotsham Cliffs to Buck’s Mill, Bideford, North Devon.
Spot type:
Remote, reefy, rocky and cliffy adventure SUP, touring spot open to the elements.
Conditions:
Conditions along Abbotsham Cliffs can be serenely flat and calm – especially during good weather spells in summer. This can be a good time to tick this adventure SUP route off. During more changeable parts of the year you’ll be at the mercy of weather gods. And being so remote there’s no easy get out if things go awry. With a rocky, reefy bottom you’ll need to keep your wits about you. And if there’s surf the many reef set us can light up. But they’re definitely not for inexperienced paddlers!
Click here for more information on hazards, access and much more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeDl3nHZRHg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bola4QDf1JU
Location:
Caledonian Canal, The Great Glen Canoe Trail, Corpach (Fort William) to Seaport (Inverness).
Spot type:
Inland, non tidal, extensive open water. This is a 95km multiday journey crossing Scotland, linking the west coast to the east coast via the Caledonian Canal, Loch Lochy and Loch Ness.
Conditions:
Normally paddled from south to north, as this is the direction of the prevailing wind. A reputation for changing weather and water conditions.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdn9s88rqMs
Location: Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Spot type: Split into three beaches Tenby is a bit of a SUP paradise (for those happy to mix and match what conditions they prefer) depending on which beach they launch from and the prevailing conditions on the day. Open water, tidal and changeable Tenby can be a wave haven for surf SUPers, a flat water recreational venue, downwind nirvana, adventure paddle spot or everything else in between.
Tenby itself is a buzzing seaside hub that attracts all manner of visitors from coastal admirers, families, hen and stag groups as well as discerning watersports participants.
Conditions:
The three main beaches in Tenby (Tenby North, Tenby South and Tenby Harbour) all offer distinct SUP conditions. Tenby North is an E facing put in featuring plenty of golden sand, shallow water with decent shelter from inbound Atlantic weather. During serious SW storms Tenby North can chuck up a reeling wave that breaks off the iconic lifeboat station at low tide. If the wave’s on then it’ll packed out with surfers all vying for their share of this rare breaking wave. For most of the time, however, Tenby North is a flat water spot that occasionally suffers from chop, mostly brought about by easterly winds.
Tenby Harbour is an extremely sheltered spot. It can be blowing dogs off chains out in the sea proper yet the harbour remains idyllically flat. There are plenty of boat moorings here and it should be noted this is a working harbour so fishing craft do come and go. That said it’s a great spot for learning to SUP. Those wanting to cover distance will be disappointed here as the harbour only offers a small playing field for SUP.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OePaZiH6JUI
Location:
Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Super exposed, west facing beach boasting a high quality reef break and not too shoddy beach break wave. Very rippy with strong currents when a decent swell’s running but for the experienced paddler challenging and fun surf. During flat water times (mostly in summer) Freshwater West can be a good touring/adventure SUP spot with the chance of potential spotting seals and dolphins.
Conditions:
When there’s a pulse of swell heading in from the Irish Sea Freshwater West can be an awesome location to snag the wave of your life. It’s a quality break, with the right forecast, and serves up fast, reeling lefts and rights that’ll propel any confident, experienced SUP surfer along at warp speed. It should also be noted, however, that the sand bar beach break wave can snap boards as it has a tendency to unload with power in the shallows.
For anyone thinking about tackling the reef certainly give appropriate consideration before putting in. The wave, during certain stages of tide, can resemble a slab i.e. breaking in minimal water depths> whilst this can give exceptional rides you and your equipment need to be up to the challenge. We know of at least one experience paddle surfer who broke his back having been chucking into the shallows here. Not to scaremonger but Freshwater West reef isn’t for the inexperienced.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2arVqDJNAU
Location:
Amroth Beach (Telpyn), Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Open sea, tidal east facing beach sitting along the shores of Carmarthen Bay. Big pebbles and rocky at high tide gives way to a mile long stretch of sand at low tide. Quaint seaside village with an array of shops, cafes and pubs make for a mellow and pleasant feel. Even though Saundersfoot and Tenby and close by (with Pendine to the east) Amroth doesn’t feel super busy even during peak times.
Conditions:
SUP conditions vary depending on the time of year and weather. Summer is usually flat with Amroth offering a flat water paddling haven that one windless days, without a breath of wind, can resemble somewhere much more exotic. During high season the water’s warm and pleasant with an abundance of sea life to observe, Watch out for jellyfish that float in from the deep and can reach significant sizes! Dolphins have been spotted here with plenty of fish jumping as well.
Low tide drops back from the large bank of pebbles and various groynes dotted along the beach. This is when most paddlers/people frequent Amroth for all sorts of beach games and watersports frolics. It’s a holiday destination for many with beachfront accommodation running alongside the sand. Even so, it never feels overrun (and that’s based on a visit during a particularly sunny and hot August Bank Holiday weekend – Saundersfoot was much more bombed out for instance.
Click here for more information on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSNF5vImiFE
Location:
Studland Bay, Studland, Dorset
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered open water location that can be quite tidal. Waves at times but often flat in summer.
Conditions:
Water states across Studland Bay can often be moderately choppy but do get days where it’s idyllically flat. If a big swell’s running up the English Channel then set can sneak in and break, giving fun SUP waves. For days when a blow’s in effect windsurfers and kitesurfers see fit to do battle here with stand up paddling being a no go (usually).
Click here for more information on hazards, access etc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c1ArFbdlZ8
Location: Harlyn Bay, Cornwall Spot
Type: North facing, open water, heavily tidal location that offers shelter for SUP surfers (and surfers in prevailing SW winds.
Conditions: Harlyn on any given day during summer will mostly be flat. Perhaps a small wave will break close to shore but it’s usually an idyllically blue (in the sun), family friendly beach. In winter, or during big pulses of swell and/or wind, Harlyn offers a fast sucky beach break style wave that can be super fast and dumpy. It’s a great wave for testing your mettle although most of Cornwall’s surfers will also descend as it’s a known sheltered break.
Click here for more info on hazards, access and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcn4Viswso4
Location:
Mudeford Harbour, Christchurch, Dorset
Spot type:
Sheltered, but tidal, shallow water venue with a long fishing history. Nowadays more the haven of boating enthusiasts looking for safe haven and watersports practitioners.
Conditions:
Mudeford Harbour is pretty flat, even when winds blow hard. You do get some chop and flow but it never gets too hectic in terms of waves and such. You’ll need to be mindful of the outgoing tide that rips through the narrow gap and will ferry SUPers out into the English Channel quick smart. Without breeze it’s a relatively small and easy going playing field that’d suit recreational/beginner paddlers.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and much more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GezUByaN40s
Location: Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight
Spot type: Open water, tidal reef spot with two very distinct faces depending on wave conditions.
Conditions: When there’s zero to little ground swell (or low winds) Freshwater Bay offers a dramatic flat water SUP location where paddlers can get lost looking down into clear water’s at the rocky bottom below. The bay’s iconic rock stack to the left, makes Freshwater instantly recognisable. With solid swell in the mix Fresh turns into one of the best right hand point breaks on the south coast – but not for the inexperienced. The high tide shore dump alone is pretty hefty!
Location:
Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue exposed to the elements but a spot that picks up the lion’s share of swell in the area when it pulses along the English Channel. You’ll adore the cliff top view upon arriving but loathe the trudge back up post-SUP session.
Conditions:
Highcliffe, being a south coast spot, can have its fair share of flat days but also deliver SUP surfers idyllic wave conditions when Momma Nature’s feeling in the right mood. Picking up the most amount of swell in the area Highcliffe can serve up decent peaks depending on the shape of the sand banks. Rock groynes and wooden sea defences can alter these, in tandem with weather, often. Watching and learning before getting wet therefore pays dividends.
Click here for more information
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS-f-WPln_Q
Location:
Brighton seafront (central – West Pier), East Sussex
Spot type:
Located right up the English Channel Brighton’s seafront is a heavily tidal, shingle beach that has many different personalities depending on the weather and Mother Nature’s moods. You can get surfable/SUPable waves, although specific aligning of the stars is required for perfect surf, as well as idyllic flat water and everything else in between. Being the closest coastal city to London – and a heavily populated one itself – means you’ll very rarely be alone on the water.
Conditions:
Choppy is often the term used to sum up Brighton’s seafront (and English Channel coastline as a whole). A deep low sitting in the Bay of Biscay, pumping long period ground swell ‘through the gap’ (in a Sly direction) will see many of Brighton’s beaches light up with around head high clean waves – as long as the wind’s light or from the northerly quadrant at least. Even without ground swell, however, you can still get a solid pulse, but being the windy variety means it’ll be weaker and won’t stick around. That said there’s a frothing crew of local surfers and SUP surfers who’re on it every chance they get! The most likely chance of waves happens during the off season. You may get dribble/onshore mush in summer but it’s winter the hardcore crew hang out for. Surf aside there’s plenty to explore in SUP touring mode along Brighton’s beaches. You’d do well to have tidal information in mind, however, as the steeply shelving land can chuck up a hefty shore dump even in the fattest of days. But there’s still respite… The skeletal remains of Brighton’s West Pier – which was burnt out in 2003 – has been left to become a permanent feature of the city’s coastal scape. It offers stand up paddle boarders a point of interest to inspect from atop their boards. Just be aware of the twisted metal remains and submerged pylons that won’t be friendly to flesh or gear.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfAExsSdy2o
Location:
Symonds Yat West, Herefordshire.
Spot type:
Non-tidal placid flat water river location.
Conditions:
Flat water. Can be affected considerably by heavy rain as the river swells and becomes more technical for paddlers. We recommend a top water level of 1.2m for novice paddlers and children. Also affected by wind speed due to the open nature of the river Wye. We suggest a top wind speed of 12 knots for novice paddlers and children.
Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8KxIsehb_c
Location:
Polzeath, Wadebridge, Cornwall
Spot type:
Classic Cornish surfing beach that’s fairly hemmed in, has a vibrant wave riding scene (featuring all types of craft in summer) and a large expanse of sand that can get absolutely rammed.
Conditions:
Polzeath’s a surf beach, through and through. You do get smaller wave days, and some flat periods that can serve up touring SUP options. By and large, however, you’ll be heading here to hunt swell. The wave itself isn’t too challenging on small to medium swells. It can close out, however, and doesn’t hold much more than 4-6ft. If it’s bigger than that the paddle out can be tough, as you battle relentless lines of white water. Rips can be a factor as well. Click here for more information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AX6jzTZIJY
Location:
Daymer Bay, Wadebridge, Cornwall
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered, open water, heavily tidal location.
Conditions:
On water conditions can vary at Daymer depending on weather, state of tide and how big a swell’s running. Nestling at the mouth of the Camel Estuary, with Padstow just across the water, Daymer can be a flat water recreation/touring SUP spot, wave venue and everything else in between. The almost mythical right hander off the rocks can see extremely long walled up waves that run and run. Likewise Daymer can be a rippy, current affected ‘mare (if you get it wrong with the tide).
Click here for information on hazards, access, amenities and more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJ-Mdd4k0zw
Location:
Marazion, Mount’s Bay, Penzance, Cornwall
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue, flanked by Penzance to the west and picturesque St Michael’s Mount to the east. Marazion (or Mazza as it’s more commonly referred to) can either be a wave venue of flat water spot depending on time of year and weather.
Conditions:
Hit Mazza in high summer and chances are it’ll be pretty flat. There may be a sea breeze setting up, depending on the actual month, with a small chance of a tiny wave if you’re lucky. Mostly, however, Marazion will be a flat water recreational/touring spot with a picturesque vista, sandy beach and the tiniest whiff of ‘kiss me quick beside the sea’ culture.
For more information about hazards, access, amenities, click here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8HiUyk9wcU
Location:
Swanage Bay, Dorset.
Spot type:
Open tidal water but very sheltered venue. Sometimes gets a wave, and choppy with SE/E/NE wind. Mostly flat though. Great for recreational sea paddling.
Conditions:
Swanage Bay is tidal but it\'s also a very mellow open sea paddling location. Facing E it\'s very sheltered from prevailing SW winds and average size swell that comes up the Channel. It\'s a great bolthole during the off season to hide from storms. Occasionally Swanage can chuck up a SUP friendly wave.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-swanage-bay-dorset/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP5MC8Vd9qQ
Location:
Kimmeridge Bay, Jurassic Coast, Dorset.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal location with rocky, reefy seabed. A jewel in the south coast\'s surfing crown noted for its variety of reef waves.
Conditions:
When Kimmeridge (or KBay as it\'s more commonly known) has a wave it\'s an awesome spot for experienced SUP surfers. The Ledges on the left is a mellower longboard style wave. Although this can get pretty big on solid swells. The Bay is also a mellow peak but not quite as consistent as The Ledges. Over on the right you have The Bench which is a hardcore, super shallow break that can literally break you and your kit of you\'re not up to the task. The Bench is on MOD land as well which means it\'s often red flagged during to firing practise. Don\'t sneak round if it is otherwise one of the doodlebugs may find a target!
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-kimmeridge-bay-jurassic-coast-dorset/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgnxMY-Soqo
Location:
Lechlade upon Thames.
Spot type:
Inland waterway and a tributary of the Thames river. Often placid but can have some flow after rain.
Conditions:
Mostly sheltered Lechlade upon Thames is a River Thames tributary that can offer good recreational paddling and adventure SUP options. If there\\\'s been rain it may get some flow so best check before putting in.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-travel-lechalde-upon-thames/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YeXwsJhDoM
Location:
Abingdon-on-Thames river tributary, Oxfordshire.
Spot type:
Mellow standing river wave for the most part. Flow can increase with rain but generally good for practising white water river surfing skills.
Conditions:
River water flows under the bridge and gives a mellow river surfing wave that can be awesome fun. There can be some debris overhanging the river bank and you need some experience of flowing water to stay safe. Good spot for learning though.
Click here for more information
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-abingdon-on-thames-river-tributary-oxfordshire/
Location:
Widemouth Bay, Bude, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Classic North Cornwall surfing beach with all the usual trappings. Tides, big waves at points, rocks and plenty of other water users. Can be good on its day for SUP surfing. Flatter times see ok touring and adventure paddling.
Conditions:
Close to Bude Widemouth has three distinct areas - the main beach, Black Rock (identifieable by its iconic rock stack) and Wanson. The beach is the safest with mostly sand. Watch out for rocks to either side.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-widemouth-bay-bude-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUiU3fdeQbk
Location:
Croyde Bay, North Devon.
Spot type:
Classic North Devon beach break that\'s held in hig regard by UK surfers. Tidal, wavey and exposed to all weather.
Conditions:
Croyde\'s low tide barrels are things of wonder. On macking swells those cavernous tubes of what locat hotshot surfers wait all year for. On mellower days it\\\\\\\'s a nice SUP surfing spot - just watch out for crowds! During high summer, on flat days there\'s chance to explore the surround atop your SUP. watch out for tides, current and quickly changing weather.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-croyde-bay-north-devon/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RXBBYPm_Z8
Location:
Whitesands Bay, St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Spot type:
Open water, tidal venue that receieves its fair share of swell - especially during autumn, winter and spring. A busy spot in summer it\'s open to the elements but can be good for SUP surfing. Flat days are fine for recreational paddling.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-whitesands-bay-st-davids-pembrokeshire-wales/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXxzM54Opa4
Location:
Esso Beach (Langstone Harbour oyster beds), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Sheltered tidal harbour location that can be super flat. If windy, however, then it gets quite choppy. A small barrier shingle reef a few yards off the beach acts as a natural safety net. The water can be suspect after rain due to sewage.
Condtions:
Mostly flat to moderatly choppy. Quite exposed if there\'s Wly wind. Good put in for touring SUP or learning basic skills.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-esso-beach-langstone-harbour-oyster-beds-hayling-island-hampshire/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGYSM7zuSeQ
Location:
Langstone, Chichester Harbour (north), Hampshire.
Spot type:
Just a short hop along from Hayling\'s Esso Beach you\'ll find The Ship car park which is where you put in. It\'s very tidal and dries out a few hours after high. Mostly sheletered but can get choppy if windy.
Conditions:
This is a flat water paddling spot suitable for recreational SUP or a good place to start your adventure. If it\'s blowing from the west the nearside bank do offer some shelter. Watch out for boat moorings. And teh car park gets busy in summer. Easy paddling here though.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-langstone-chichester-harbour-north-hampshire/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGYSM7zuSeQ
Location:
Thames Sailing Club, Surbiton, Kingston-upon-Thames, London.
Spot type:
Inland, sheltered river perfect for recreational, touring and race SUP training, The Battle of the Thames is held each year here.
Conditions:
Super flat water with occasional small amounts of chop if windy. A little flow at times but mostly safe. A good spot to start your SUP adventure touring route.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-thames-sailing-club-surbiton-kingston-upon-thames-london/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ke3HVVRx8_Y
Location:
Crantock Beach, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Huge beach with an even bigger sand dune that needs to climbed for access to the beach. Open water surf with flat tidal water in the Gannel estuary at high.
Conditions:
A beach with two side Crantock can have a very usable, SUP friendly wave on smaller swells. Whilst high tide sees the picturesque Gannel estuary fill up and allow paddling on flat water. Use the tide to ferry glide towards Newquay and then ebb back on the flow. Be mindful of currents.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-crantock-beach-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBteccKYX6Y
Location:
Gwithian, St. Ives Bay, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Open water tidal spot synonymous with surf.
Conditions:
Gwithian has become a renowned SUP surfing spot. Although paddle boarders are still outnumbered by traditional surfers. Gwithers can be big but also have mellow waves great for SUP. It\'s very exposed and chops up with any breeze. On flatter days paddling across St. Ives Bay to Carbis or further is possible. Experienced paddlers also do downwinders in this area.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-gwithian-st-ives-bay-cornwall/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyfrd-0sEIU
Location:
Westward Ho!, North Devon.
Spot type:
Tidal spot that gets an awesome SUP surfing wave. Easy place to learn. Does get choppy if windy due to beach exposure. When flatter it\\\'s a good location for recreational SUP or touring. Some decent routes in this area. Also, quieter than neighbouring Saunton.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-westward-ho-north-devon/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSAE9sf1dxc
Location:
Llangenith, Gower Peninsula, Wales.
Spot type:
Massive open water beach that\'s a Mecca fo surfing.
Conditions:
Llangennith is the indicator spot for the surrounding Gower. It\'s also a good choice for SUP surfing - although not on big days where the paddle out can be brutal! Summer, flatter days give options for touring and recreational SUP. Prone to be blown out and choppy.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-llangenith-gower-peninsula-wales/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8a_eVeJZjA
Location:
Chasewater, Staffordshire, West Midlands.
Spot type:
Inland, heart of the country lake.
Conditions:
Mostly flat water but gets windy and choppy when Mother Nature dictates. a fairly big expanse of water it\'s great for recreational SUP or race training.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chasewater-staffordshire-west-midlands/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDedl52m7OM
Location:
Korcula Island, Croatia.
Spot type:
Adriatic Sea island that\'s great for touring and recreational SUP.
Conditions:
Although you get small tides here they\'re not really a hassle. Currents and flow - especially in the Orebic Channel - can be though. Summer sees super flat water with breeze and chop picking up through the day. afternoon\'s can be awesome for downwind paddling if you know how. Great overseas SUP holiday destination.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-korcula-southern-dalmatia-croatia/
Location:
Mar Menor, Murcia, Spain.
Spot type:
Huge salwater lagoon found on Spain\'s Mediterranean SE corner.
Condtions:
Flat water - especially during summer mornings. Prone to chopping up later in the day as thermal winds build. Can fill up with huge jellyfish blooms. Great for touring and recreational paddling.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-mar-menor-murcia-spain/
Location:
Barbados, Caribbean, West Indies.
Spot type:
West Indian island featuring all type sof paddling in tidal waters.
Conditions:
Everything from SUP surfing to flat water and downiwn paddling can be found in Barbados. And all with a distinctly West Indian flavour. SUP is huge on the island making Barbados a must visit location.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-barbados-caribbean-west-indies/
Location:
Javea (Xabia), Costa Blanca, Spain.
Spot type:
Javea\'s Arenal beach is semi portected paddling spot. Although with th right conditions it still get s waves - especially in winter. Wind can also chop the water up. There are multiple other put ins along this coast, whatever style of SUP you\'re into.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-javea-xabia-costa-blanca-spain/
Location:
Ammoudia, Acheron Delta, Epirus, Greece
Spot type:
Flat to choppy open water Mediterranean beach with a fresh water river adjacent.
Conditions:
Ammoudia\'s bay is a failry sheltered Med put in that can get moderately choppy if (when) the Meltemi blows - mostylu diring summer afternoons. The fresh water river, flowing into th ebay next door, is great for adventure SUP. You can navigate al the way up to Acheron Falls.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-ammoudia-acheron-delta-epirus-greece/
Location:
Open water Med location.
Spot type:
A massive sandy beach gives way to flat/sometimes choppy water. There\'s a big opportunity for some SUP touring here. Likewsie it\'s a good location for recreational paddling when the wind\'s light. A fomer Neilson watersports centre.
Conditions:
Glassy water during summer morning getting progressively choppy throygh teh day as the breeze picks up.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-airone-sibari-calabria-italy/
Location:
Budoni, Sardinia (Baia dei Mori), Italy.
Spot type:
Another Neilson resort that offers semi sheltered paddling water. When the afternoon wind kicks in during summer it gets very choppy. Nikce for a spot of recreational SUP.
Codnitions:
Flat to choppy depending on wind.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-budoni-sardinia-baia-dei-mori-italy-%ef%bf%bc/
Location:
Il de Re & Il d’Oleron, France
Spot type:
Two distinct island in the Vendee area of France. Offering every type of SUP depending on conditions.
Codnitions:
Oleron is the more rugged island with Ile de Re being more polished. Both have put ins for all leveles and styles of paddler. Not as busy as other SW France location during summer.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-il-de-re-il-doleron-france/
Location:
Antigua, Caribbean, West Indies.
Spot type:
West Indian island that\'s failry sheltered from swell due to it extending continetal reef shelf. Trade Winds are ever present, however, so seeking sheltere is always a good idea. Open sea is quiet choppy. Sometimes ground swell is big enough to make it across teh reef and light up certain breaks for SUP surfing.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-international-bitesize-paddle-board-guides-antigua-caribbean-west-indies/
Location:
Kihei to Lahaina, (south shore) Maui, Hawaii.
Spot type:
Legedary Pacific Ocean island (Maui) with the south shore being more mellow and less open to swell than the north.
Conditions:
All along the rout from Kihei to LaHaina you\'ll find various SUP surifng friendly waves and flat water touring spots. There\'s also the odd (fickle) world class wave. A much more doable coast for intermediate padlers than the North Shore. although care shoudl still be take due to reef, tides and other hazards.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-kihei-to-lahaina-south-shore-maui-hawaii/
Location:
Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian, Greece (north)
Spot type:
Mediterranean oen water spot susceptibe to afternoon summer winds but glassy calm during mornings. Great for adventure SUP and touring.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-zakynthos-zante-ionian-islands-greece-north/
Location:
Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Spot type:
Costa Teguise is one of the more sheltered spots on Lanzarote. Its sandy beach and flat water (inside) are great for learning to SUP. Outside it gets lumpier with often quite a stiff breeze blowing - especially during summer. The reef can chuck up a wave and sometimes the swell pushes all the way to the inside if it\'s big enough. This breaks over reef, although the rocks aren\'t as harsh as other breaks.
Conditions:
Flat water, waves and rolling swell are what you\'ll find here. It\'s also windy at times with windsurfers making a beeline for the area.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-costa-teguise-lanzarote-canary-islands/
Location:
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands.
Spot type:
Deep water, wavey, choppy and windy in a lot of locations. Some shelter can be found around the harbour and tidal lagoons along the northern track, Great spot for SUP surfing and downwinding. Some tide and a lot of reef.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-corralejo-fuerteventura-canary-islands/
Location:
Vassiliki Bay, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece
Spot type:
Sheltered flat water in the morning, moderate chop and windy summer afternoons in summer.
Conditions:
Vass is a windsurifng institution. But the wind doesn\'t start until afternoon in summer leaving calm glassy morning for recreational SUP. Winter can get a rare wave. But it\'s a case of being there and on it.
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-bitesize-international-sup-travel-guides-vassiliki-bay-lefkas-ionian-greece/
Location:
Nidri, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece
Spot type:
Flat water (mostly) with some chop depending on afternoon summer breeze.
Conditions:
Semi sheltered flat water, non-tidal spot that\\\'s a haven for yachts during summer. Never really gets too windy or choppy and is often glassy calm through the morning. Access is easy enough although you\\\'ll need to navigate a few rocks potentially. Best not to put in from pontoons as they\\\'re private. Plenty of amenities on land.
Location:
Mylos Beach (Agios Nikitas), Lefkas, Greece
Spot type:
Exposed Mediterranean spot. Can be flatter in the morning but still prone to lumps and bumps.
Conditions:
Billed as one of the best sandy beaches on the island this is an open water spot, quite exposed to prevailing Ionian weather. It gets quite bumpy/lumpy although proper swell isn\\\'t usually a factor. If it does blow then you\\\'ll be hard pushed to paddle. mornings are definitely best when it\\\'ll be much calmer. There aren\\\'t many hazards (other than windsurfers and kiters when it\\\'s blowing). A couple of beach bars are on site with accommodation close by. The main Lefkas town isn\\\'t too far of a jaunt.
Location:
Porto Heli (Porto Cheli), Ermionida, Argolis, Greece.
Spot type:
Super sheltered with idyllic flat water most of the time. Summer can see breeze on accasion. Quite safe.
Conditions:
Previously owned and operated by Neilson Holidays Porto Heli is now a private beach hotel that still has plenty of access to idyllically flat and sheltered water. Porto Heli never gets that windy - even when surrounding beaches are blowy. Occasionally the prevailing summer Meltemi does fill in but it\\\'s rare to see proper full power days. Boat traffic is the biggest hazard here. Porto Heli town is a short stroll away where you\\\'ll find plenty of eating, drinking, shopping and nightlife.
Location:
Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt.
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered flat water paddling location. A magnet for windsurfers due to consistent breeze. Great for downwinding or learning in the protected tidal lagoon.
Dahab is a windsurfing institution (or at least was until getting there became increasingly difficult). Nowadays it\\\'s much quieter, although the wind still blows. For SUP Dahab is an interesting location. The inside lagoon is sheltered and flat - great for learning. Anybody into downwind paddling will love heading off the beach, south, and riding bumps all the way down to where Harry Nass Centre 4 is. There\\\'s usually safety cover on hand but not always. When the wind doesn\\\'t blow Dahab is idyllically flat and great for recreational paddling.
Location:
Portland. Weymouth, Dorset.
Spot type:
Flat water with W winds. Can be choppy with any wind from other directions. Can be lots of other water users about.
Conditions:
Weymouth, or rather Portland, is a huge expanse of harbour flat water that’s perfect for beginner and recreational SUP on calmer days. If there’s any breeze expect to be joined by all manner of wind driven craft as they race up and down the flats with Chesil beach blocking all the chop. Easterly winds can kick up more flotsam but it never gets too rolling like many open sea locations. There’re a handful of hire/retail outlets close by that’ll sort all your paddle boarding needs. Whilst Weymouth Town itself is a thriving, buzzing coastal town where you’ll find everything you need for eats, drinks, sleep and so on. Tides need to be taken account of when paddling any open water as do offshore winds. And avoid ferries and any other big boat traffic.
Location:
Bantham, and River Avon, South Hams, Devon.
Spot type:
South Devon beach break that gets a great wave on its day. Summer sees flatter conditions. Can be choppy in ope water. Awesome adventure paddling in the tidal River Avon. Be careful of currents!
Conditions:
South Hams and the iconic beach of Bantham always draws a crowd when the surf’s firing. It’s an awesome SUP break on its day for the experienced. With the ever present Burgh Island looming in the background. Being a south facing spot, however, means Bantham doesn’t always get swell. In which case it’s great for flat water adventure SUP. Heading up the River Avon that flows into Bantham is a cracking adventure, Use the tide to head north before ferry gliding back on the ebb. Bantham can get busy with surfers so watch out for crowds. Also, watch the rips if there is surf. Head into Kingsbridge for local eats and drinks or over to Salcombe for a more boaty vibe. If you are heading to Bantham then the advice is get there early during summer to snag your parking place.
For a more in depth guide hit this link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvVeO7QymQM
Location:
Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Wales.
Spot type:
Well frequented tidal beach that can be flat or choppy depending on wind and swell.
Conditions:
Rhosneigr (or Rhossi as it’s known) is a watersports epicenter of North wales. Situated on the island of Anglesey there are plenty of watersports enthusiasts of all types who descend upon the area for fun and frolics. If you get a flat calm day then recreational paddle boarding is the go. As is heading off on adventure SUP jaunts around headlands and such. There are plenty more paddling options in the area too, depending what you’re after and Mother Nature’s mood on the day. There’s a watersports shop right on the beach with some accommodation and other amenities locally. Busier towns aren’t that far away.
Location:
Birmingham Shipping canal, Birmingham.
Spot type:
Super sheltered, flat water inner city canal network.
Conditons:
Birmingham’s shipping canal network was, for a long time, pretty inaccessible. And to be honest you wouldn’t have wanted to put in with how filthy and obstruction filled they were. Following a massive revamp by Birmingham City Council the canals are now much cleaner and perfectly applicable for paddle boarding activities. A number of schools and hire businesses are available to guide you along. Or, if you prefer, there’s option to put in yourself and discover some inner Brum SUP. There are still some hazards on the canal. Water can flow quicker at certain times of year and debris can remain an issue in certain spots. Getting in and out may also be tricky depending on how high sided the banks are. Being central Birmingham you’re right in the middle of where eateries, drinking establishments, shops and so on are.
Location:
Front Street, Pembroke Dock, Wales.
Spot type:
Tidal harbour with mostly flat to choppy water.
Conditions:
Front Street, Pembroke Dock, is a slightly off the beaten track put in that gives access to Milford Haven estuary. The small car park, adjacent to a run of terraced houses, is actually quite secluded compared to the rest of the area. Once afloat you’ll have the run of the waterway up to Neyland (where you could stop for a quick refreshments stop, or down towards the power station. We’d suggest keeping away from here due to the huge sea tankers that come and go. It’s much quieter to the right. This being a tidal estuary you’ll need to be right on the money for tides and currents. And watch out for lots of boating traffic. There are plenty of facilities close by, including bed and breakfast accommodation right opposite the put in.
Location:
Rest Bay, Porthcawl, Wales.
Spot type:
Open water, surfing beach that disappears at high tide.
Conditions:
Rest Bay is one of four beaches to choose in Porthcawl. It’s the town’s main surfing beach with Coney, Trecco and Newton the others. Rest Bay can be flat for waves in the summer but bumpy during the off season. As with any wave venue it’s down to wind direction whether you score clean conditions or not. At high tide the beach disappears, with rocks and reef just below surface ready to take fins if you’re not aux fait with the area. As the water recedes the beach massively opens up and connects with other expanses of sand either side. If the conditions are calm adventure paddlers have plenty of space for SUP touring. Porthcawl itself has all the usual trappings of a seaside resort so you’ll be well served with choices of places to head post-paddle.
Location:
Eastbourne, East Sussex.
Spot type:
Tidal, open water SUP spot that can be flat, often choppy and sometimes gets a ridable wave.
Conditions:
Eastbourne is your classic seaside resort with a busy promenade and beachside road that gives way to sandy expanses at low water and shingle at high tide. Facing E it doesn’t bear the full brunt of SW storms and remains quite flat, if choppy at times. There’s a vibrant paddle board scene in Eastbourne with plenty out on good weather days. A coastal town with plenty of amenities and facilities Eastbourne is close to Brighton and could offer shelter if it’s too windy down that way. Occasionally E’bourne does get a wave but it’s mostly in winter. Many stand up paddlers in Eastbourne head to Seven Sisters Country Park for their SUP fix as this is an even more applicable spot for beginners and intermediates.
Location:
Seven Sisters Country Park, Cuckmere, East Sussex.
Spot type:
Meandering river that can tidal in some areas. Very sheltered though, even being next to the coast.
Conditions:
Seven Sisters Country Park is an expanse of low lying land and a meandering oxbow river (Cuckmere) that snakes its way to the sea. Seven Sisters refers to the seaward facing chalk cliffs. But it’s the river that holds most appeal for SUPers. There’s a watersports centre that offers SUP tours and lessons on the river as it’s a safer more sheltered location than the nearby open coastal water. A choice route is heading towards Cuckmere Haven and the coast, literally going with the flow. Currents do need to be kept in mind. And get out in some places along the route can be tricky. The Cuckmere Inn can be used a refreshment stop if you wish. But other than that there’s not much else in the area. You’ll need to travel to one of the surrounding towns for more choice.
Location:
Cromer, Norfolk.
Spot type:
O[en water, tidal venue that can be great on its day for waves. Often choppy but does get its share of flat calm periods.
Conditions:
A traditional Victorian seaside resort, complete with pier, Norfolk’s Cromer Beach is a tidal open water venue that can feature swell and flat water depending on conditions. Open to northerly North Sea swells the spot tends get waves in winter although on rare occasions this can also happen in summer too. For high season paddlers Cromer is a recreational or adventure SUP spot. There are some decent touring routes to choose from or just stay close to the launch. High tide can see shore dump if it’s breezy or there’s swell running. And being coastal means tides and currents should be kept in mind. If paddling close to the pier then exercise caution as you can easily become entangled with the pier pylons. Cromer has plenty to keep you entertained off the water but it does get busy. Car parking is on the cliff and the walk down is fairly steep – especially with SUP gear.
Location:
Old Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered tidal venue that can be awesome for coastal touring.
Conditions:
Old Hunstanton Beach is a northerly facing stretch of Norfolk coastline. It’s quite tidal. On the ebb flow sand and shingle are exposed with good access for all kinds of watersports. The tide continues to flow out quite a way leaving plenty of room and quite a walk with your gear. There are various route choices for SUP adventures when conditions are favourable. If it’s breezy then the water gets quite choppy and rippy. The beach shelves gently though and is a fairly safe place to paddle – especially for families. It’s also a great spot for a sunset paddle as the vistas are great. Parking can be busy in high summer. Hunstanton itself gets quite lively. But there’s plenty there for post-paddle fun and frolics.
Location:
The Norfolk Broads, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Extremely sheltered network of canals that cover an extensive paddling area across both Norfolk and Suffolk.
Conditions:
The Broads straddle both Norfolk and Suffolk counties and are a network of navigable rivers and lakes. Although the whole area is referred to as the Norfolk Broads. They’re perfect for paddle boarding with riders being able to connect many different routes. Adventure SUP is the go here as there’s plenty to discover atop your SUP. Formed after flooding peat works the Broads are now a designated national park. Paddlers should check if any restrictions are in place, although some restrictions are questionable in their legality. Other boating traffic will need to kept clear of and there are currents in places. Sometimes you’ll also come across obstacles that need to be rounded or portaged (if possible). The many villages and towns will be where you’ll find those essentials and such.
Location:
The Haven, Boston, Norfolk.
Spot type:
Flat water, sheltered paddling spot that takes you through the heart of Boston, Lincs.
Conditions:
Boston’s The Haven River is a tidal shipping waterway that allows access to the Lincolnshire port town and back to the Boston Deeps at The Wash. Being tidal there’s moving water on The Haven to be aware of. And also boat traffic. Yellowbelly Paddle Boarding school is based in Boston and uses many of the The Haven’s tributaries. It’s a sheltered location and does OK in wind. Beginners and advanced paddlers alike will find favour here. You have a choice of put ins but be aware access isn’t always straightforward in some areas. Also, you mightn’t find an easy exit point if things don’t go as planned. Best advice is get in touch with Phil May at Yellowbelly SUP school for more in depth paddle board info.
Location:
Carsington Water, Derbyshire.
Spot type:
Inland lake that can be flat but does get choppy if windy.
Conditions:
Carsington Water is a picturesque reservoir in Derbyshire. It’s an outdoor sports and leisure hub offering all types of tuition and guiding, including SUP. You need to contact the watersports centre to launch, which is a small fee. If you’re looking for tuition then this is pre-bookable. Weekends and school holidays are extremely busy with groups but Carsington’s open all year so you should find a suitable time for a paddle. You can buy a season pass if you intend to paddle here regularly. The lake does get breezy and choppy, and with it being a large expanse of water the chop can build up. Mostly, though, it’s a sheltered flat water location that great for beginners and those fancying a leisurely paddle. The surrounding Derbyshire countryside is also worth a mooch when you’re not on the water.
Location:
Scarborough South Beach, Scarborough, Yorkshire.
Spot type:
Open sea put in that does offer some shelter in certain weather. Can be good for first SUP surfing forays.
Conditions:
The Yorkshire seaside town of Scarborough has been attracting visitors for years. Boasting two bays (north and south) it’s the south beach that’s the more livelier of the two. For paddle boarding it’s also the flattest with most shelter. It can get surf – especially during winter – but Scarborough south isn’t as wavy as its northern sibling. For recreational SUPers you can learn the ropes of paddling here. Or those looking for some SUP adventure may want to start their Yorkshire coast meandering at Scarb south. Being an open water tidal venue there are currents and water flow to be aware of. There are also plenty of other water users to avoid. The shoreline is flanked with typical seaside resort amusement arcades and fast food outlets. And being a town you’ll have plenty of other post-paddling choices.
Location:
Tankerton Beach, Whitstable, Kent.
Spot type:
Tidal venue that offers mellow coastal paddling at the right time. Can be choppy in wind.
Conditions:
Whitstable’s Tankerton Beach is an exposed, steep shelving beach that features shingle and shore dump at high tide with more sand at low. It doesn’t receive that much proper ground swell but can be quite choppy and rippy with certain conditions. When the water glasses off it’s a pleasant and airy place to paddle. There’s plenty of parking – although high season is still busy. You’ll need to keep clear of the groynes and watch out for other boat traffic. Especially if heading off on SUP adventures. The town has plenty to keep you amused off the water. The Cathedral City of Canterbury isn’t too much of a drive.
Location:
Isle of Sheppey, Kent.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered, heavily tidal location with varied paddling options depending on tidal state and weather.
Conditions:
The Isle of Sheppey is a heavily tidal location where it\\\'s possible to circumnavigate the island. The local dinghy sailing club has been hosting a round Sheppey race for years. In recent times there have been a bunch of paddle boarders who\\\'ve taken on the challenge. It\\\'s roughly 30 miles with plenty of big boat traffic and other hazards to be aware of. There are lots of mud flats here with get outs being potentially ticky. As an experienced adventure SUP location it\\\'s a great spot though.
Location:
Paris Plage, Le Touquet, Pais De Calais, France.
Spot type:
Exposed open water location that can be good for touring SUP. Very choppy if windy. Often rippy.
Conditions:
Le Touquet is a buzzing, vibrant French seaside town that gets super busy during summer holidays. Parisians descend here for weekends away and holidays with much white sand to make use of. Beach bars and amusements line the beachfront and sands. This all said parking can be surprisingly accessible. The launch is heavily tidal with waters ebbing a fair distance. As it pushes back in the beach shrinks but is still accessible. It can be quite choppy afloat and other water users do need to be kept clear of. Lifeguards are on duty should you require assistance. Paris Plage is good for recreational paddling or starting your SUP touring journey. For instance round into the estuary. Just watch the currents.
Location:
La Base Nord, Le Touquet, France
Spot type:
Sheltered, tidal lagoon that dries out at low water. Rippy in the mouth but can be the best option for flat water paddling in the area.
Conditions:
At high tide, there\'s a small slip of sand next to the Centre Nautique de la Baie de Canche that gives free public access to the water. This is a sheltered flat water spot with sand dunes to the west blocking open sea swell. You\\\'ll find plenty of other watersports nuts afloat in high season. The local watersports centre runs lessons and hire. You can also launch from one of their slipways for a small fee. Currents are strong at certain stages of tide and there\\\'s also quicksand in the area to watch out for. Next to the centre you\\\'ll find a decent (if expensive) restaurant. And there\\\'s eBike, eScooter and segway hire onsite. La Touquet Centre Ville isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Slade Harbour, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Small area of sheltered tidal water that can be good for learning.
Conditions:
Slade Harbour is a super sheltered paddling spot that\'s used by local activities centre Shielbaggan. If there\'s any kind of wind or big swell activity you can still get a short session in the bag. Although it\'s not a big area. And as the tide drops you get strong currents flowing out. Being a harbour there\'s also working boat traffic. But it\'s still relatively quiet. Parking isn\'t extensive and there\'s a small shop and toilet facilities. For experienced paddlers it\'s more of a start/stop point for adventure paddling.
Location:
Boyce\'s Bay, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sem sheltered tidal stretch that offers flat water paddling, choppy water or waves depending on conditions. Very quiet.
Conditions:
Boyce\'s Bay sits a little way inside the Waterford Estuary on the Hook Peninsula. That said it still picks up swell when there\\\'s a wave running. Albeit only from W quadrants. Surf wraps in and can serve up a fast, dumping wall with a decent pulse. It goes pretty flat in summer though and can be good for recreational paddling and adventure. There is parking but it\'s limited and next to a farm down a single track road. Be courteous. There are no real amenities on site.
Location:
Grange Beach, Hook Peninsula, County Wexford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Great first time open sea location for paddlers wanting to tackle tidal waters.
Conditions:
Grange Beach all but disappears at high tide. But as the water ebbs a vast expanse of sand is revealed. Though very tidal Grange Beach is also quite sheltered. Only on massive winter swells does it really get a wave. and even then it\'s a soft breaking, mellow affair. Shielbaggan Activities Centre uses this spot regularly for teaching kayaking, SUP and windsurfing. Parking is pretty good. There\\\'s no real car park but the road leading to the beach is wide. It\\\'s then a steep walk down an access runway with kit. A few small shops are close by. And an ice cream van does make an appearance from time to time. Do be aware of the strong currents flowing in and out of the estuary to the left.
Location:
Tramore Beach. County Waterford, Ireland.
Spot type:
Open sea, wave venue that\'s exposed to the elements.
Conditions:
Tramore Beach is a center of surfing excellence in Ireland. That isn\'t to say it gets the best waves - it doesn\'t. But it has a buzzing scene with plenty of surf/SUP schools/hire centers and is a great place to hone your skills. The waves never get massive, although Tramore has its day. Instead, the gently shelving beach is an easy access location for all sorts of watersports. Onsite you\'ll find a surf shop, that also deals in SUP gear. You also have the obligatory kiss me quick style seaside attractions, cafes, bars and restaurants. Tramore does get busy but there\\\'s loads of room. Waterford is a short drive away for anyone wanting some town vibes.
Location:
Oysterhaven Beach, Oysterhaven, County Cork. Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered tidal estuary that can be flat or choppy depending on conditions.
Conditions:
Oysterhaven Beach is really a tidal estuary access point. At high tide it disappears - although you can still put in from the slip. Oysterhaven activities Centre is also based here. The set up teaches all manner of watersports (including SUP). Out of high season you may be abe to rent paddle boards. This launch gives access to the rest of estuary where SUP adventures abound. There\\\'s plenty to discover. Just be mindful of tidal currents and other hazards in certain places. Other than Oysterhaven activities Centre there\\\'s not much else here. Drive to Kinsale for a buzz.
Location:
Garretstown Beach, Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed beachbreak that can serve up a SUP friendly wave. Can also be good for recreational paddles in summer when it\'s flatter.
Conditions:
Garretstown Beach is Cork/Kinsale\'s local surf spot. It gets pretty busy with or without waves. For swell G\'Town is more consistent than you\'d think. Yet it still goes mostly flat during summer. Launching here gives access to the Old Head of Kinsale route (the headland to the left). With favourable weather and paddler experience this is a fun route to tick off. watch out for currents and rocks though. Parking at Garretstown is fairly good, although still tricky in summer. Facilities are onsite with Kinsale not that far away where you\\\'ll find even more.
Location:
Fountainstown Beach, County Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Super sheltered, but tidal location that\'s great for SUP. When it does get a wave it\'s really paddle boarding friendly.
Conditions;
Fountainstown Beach rarely gets a wave. Instead, it\'s a sheltered E facing beach that\'s a good entry to coastal paddling. There are still things to watch out for, such as fast flowing tides. But it\\\'s fairly safe with good access. If you do score a freeak pulse of swell the wave is soft breaking and perfect for SUP. Anyone with knowledge and understanding will find a fun adventure paddling route along the small estuary. Parking is pretty good with a decent sized car park behind the beach. And there\'s an activities center and small shop on site. Cork is a short drive away for more city vibes.
Location:
Long Strand, Castlefreke, County Cork, Ireland
Spot type:
Regional classic, super exposed surf spot that can be good for touring SUP at times.
Conditions:
Castlefreke\'s Long Strand Beach is an exposed stretch of coastline that picks up thumping surf on its day. Facing SW the spot\'s open to wind and waves and can often be very choppy. It does go flatter summer and can be a quiet location for some adventure SUP fun. There\\\'s a static caravan site close by and parking can be good. Little other facilities in the area though. The next beach E is Red Strand which can offer more shelter and perhaps a cleaner wave if SUP surfing\\\'s on the agenda. Surf N SUP West Cork operate out of Warren Beach, a little further west, and can deliver SUP lessons and tours.
Location:
Warren Beach, Rosscarberry, West Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Fairly sheltered, good fun beach break that\'s great for SUP surfing.
Conditions:
Warren Beach is s stone\'s throw away from Rosscarberry Town. Rosscarberry Town is apparently one of the most overlooked town\'s in the area. The beach also. Warren Beach is more sheltered than some spots close by but still enjoys a wave or two. It\'s a good location for taking those first steps in waves. On flat days there\\\'s a whole load of adventure SUP routes to choose from. Surf N SUP West Cork operate here so give them a shout for more info.
Location:
Rosscarberry Lagoon, Rosscarberry, West Cork, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered lagoon that does get moderately choppy if wind is present. Mostly flat though.
Conditions:
Rosscarberry Lagoon is the result of damming and creating a causeway across the Ross Estuary, formed as part of the postal service road network between 1810-1814. The natural lagoon is now a haven for watersports activities with SUP and other watersports on offer via The Lagoon Activities Centre. A great place to learn and improve on sheltered waters you can rent or take lessons in a very safe and secure location. Rosscarberry Town is often described as being an overlooked Irish destination so definitely worth checking. Plenty of local amenities with Warren Beach just a stone\\\'s throw away.
Location:
Barleycove Beach, West Cork, Ireland
Spot type:
Picturesque surfing beaches out on the fringes of West Cork. Great for recreational SUP when conditions are right.
Conditions:
Barleycove Beach is right out on the fringes of West Cork. It\\\'s a haven for those who live in Cork City at weekends. Offering a degree of seclusion and peace you can see why. Although it\\\'s definitely busier these days. Barleycove is an OK beach for some SUP surfing. The sand banks are ever changing, and it\\\'s a little sheltered, but can be decent on its day. Currents and tides need to be kept in mind. The estuary behind the beach can be good for a paddle, if you know what\\\'s going on with tides. Be aware there are limited get outs as it\\\'s mostly mud flat and soft sand. In the village there\\\'s accommodation and some amenities but it\\\'s certainly not super extensive.
Location:
Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland.
Spot type:
Exposed open water SUP spot that\'s great for surfing and adventure SUP depending on the day.
Conditions:
Watched over by the looming Bamburgh Castle the beach is noted as one of the most consistent surf spots on this section of coast. Whilst there is a village behind the sand Bamburgh is pretty isolated. You\\\'ll need to be mindful of the usual coastal hazards such as tides, currents, wind and large swell. Smaller surf days can be good for getting to grips with SUP surfing. and flat days in summer can be great for coastal cruises. The water\\\'s usually quite cold here - this being the North Sea. So wear approrpriate SUP clothing. Holy Island is nearby, one of the most important places as far as early Christianity goes.
Location:
The Lake District, Cumbria.
Spot type:
Scenic flat water paddling among hills, fells and valleys.
Conditions:
Over the last few years The Lakes has become a real hot spot for paddle boarding. With so many flat water lake locations to choose from you\'re spoilt as a paddler. The biggest challenge you\\\'ll face is rain. It does rain a fair bit here. And there\\\'s often wind gusting off the fell. But travel a little further and you\\\'ll probably find a sheltered location regardless. The lake water can be cool - even in summer. And weather can change fast here. So be aware. Also, The Lake District is busy and parking spots aren\\\'t as abundant as you\\\'d think. Lots of activity centers exist, many of which offer paddle boarding lessons and/or hire. Some boat traffic on certain lakes (like Windermere) need to be kept clear of. If SUP\\\'s not happeniong then go climb a mountain.
Location:
Tiree, Hebrides, Scotland.
Spot type:
Exposed Hebridean island offering a varied and diverse set of paddling options.
Conditions:
Tiree, for such a small Hebridean island, has so many options for paddling - including a sheltered inland lake! Noted for its watersports, white sand beaches and azure coloured water you would think you\\\'re somewhere more tropical on sunny days. SUP surfing, flat water paddling and everything else in between is what you\\\'ll find here. Wild Diamon operates a watersports school and hire center on the island. Accommodation options are fairly extensive. although high season does get very busy on Tiree. Parking and facilities are good in certain spots. Whilst at others you\\\'ll be very much on your own. Get the ferry from Oban or even fly if you wish.
Location:
Lac de Maine, Angers, Loire, France.
Spot type:
Super sheltered inner city lake that can offer perfect flat water. Occasionally choppy if windy.
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Location:
La Tranche sur Mer, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
Lots of choice for paddling different conditions in along a small amount of French coastline. Everything from waves to flat water.
Conditions:
La Tranche sur Mer sits on the Vendee coast and is watersports central. Everything from SUP, surfing windsurfing, foiling and sailing is covered here. Due to the orientation of the coastline, it\\\'s possible to do multiple sports in one day. The wind generally starts off E in the morning before a thermal W switches on around lunchtime. Paddling in the leigh of the wind is doable. Or head up the coast for a downwinder. If there are waves then various banks pop up depending on the tide. Watch out for currents and some rocks/reef in places. LTSM gets busy in summer with all manner of watercraft. So keep clear. Also, be aware of other hazards such as buoy markers and mooring lines. If it\\\'s not happening for SUP at your chosen put in head up or down the coast a little. The lake can also offer a safe beginner environment. Alternatively, head over to Ile de Re for more options.
Location:
Le Goulet, Jard sur Mer, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
Semi sheltered open water venue that\'s flat in the morning during summer with an afternoon thermal breeze kicking in. Can get mellow waves.
Conditions:
Much like La Tranche sur Mer Jard sur Mer\'s Le Goulet launch is a well set ut location that benefits from a curving of the coast just upwind. Inside, at high tide (even when it\\\'s blowing moderately out back) it\\\'s pretty sheltered. Rolling swell does pulse in and break in certain spots. The waves are mellow though and great for learning the art of SUP surfing. Rocks are a factor, although not specifically reef. You just need to be aware and shoes might be worth it. As the tide recedes you get more sand and rocks exposure. There\\\'s a car park right at the spot but it gets busy. More options are just across the road behind the beach. Toilets and a few beach bars are available for post-SUP refreshments. And there\\\'s a surf shop back towards Plage de Conches or for even more head to La Tranche sur Mer. This is also French resort territory so there\\\'s plenty of accommadation available.
Location:
Biscarosse, Aquitane, France.
Spot type:
Famed surf location that can have everything from heavy waves to mellow SUP gliders. Very tidal.
Conditions:
Biscarosse, and its close neighbour Mimizan are typical south west French beaches that wave heads will adore. Less busy than the more headline Biarritz, Anglet and Hossegor to the south Biscarosse offers similar conditions on the water. This is surf ville - although summer can be flatter (just like every other northern European spot). If there\\\'s a pulse, however, then depending on the size can make or break your sesh. Smaller surf is doable for most experienced paddlers. Just watch out for busy line ups. On larger swells it gets a bit hairier with more skills needed. Waves can dump and break hard close to the shore. And there will often be strong currents. Occasionally flat water allows a bit of adventure SUP. For those less competent there\\\'s a lake just back from the beach. Just keep clear of marine traffic. Amenities abound in this part of France so you\\\'ll be well catered for.
Location:
Biarritz, Aquitane, France.
Spot type:
Surf City, France. With lots of wave options and some flat water.
Conditions:
Surf City France - or Biarritz - has abundant beaches and put ins that give access to a variety of waves. There\\\'s a vibrant SUP surfing scene but it does get especially busy during summer. Waves can be mellow, depending where you head, but there\'ll almost always be a frothing pack in the water. When waves do become solid you\\\'ll need your skills and wits as these can be waves of consequence. Currents and strong tides need to be kept in mind. And you\\\'ll need to arrive early to secure your spot - both in the car park and in the water. Being a city you\\\'ll find all you need Biarritz and more. Plus, there are plenty of surrounding locations with even more to keep you entertained. Head a little north for mellow lake style paddling if the beaches become too much.
A remote County Mayo Beach Carrownisky is open to pretty much all of what the North Atlantic can throw its way. Location:
Carrownisky, County Mayo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed and quiet surf beach that can 0ffer adventure SUP opportunities when no waves are present.
Conditions:
Therefore you\'ll certainly find waves here if that\'s what you\'re after. It does go flatter in summer with more touring SUP opportunities on offer. Parking is mostly good and there are toilet facilities on hand Heading back into Louisburgh you\\\'ll find a couple of shops and pubs. Westport is the closest town, however. Paddling at Corrownisky you\\\'ll need to be aware that if things go awry you\\\'ll be on your own. That said this is a magnificently picturesque part of the world and definitely worth a look.
Location:
La Terriere, Vendee, France.
Spot type:
West facing surf beach that can be great for SUP touring as well.
Conditions:
La Terriere Plage is a popular destination for those looking for some wave action. At low tide, the wave peels better than high when it can dump. It\\\'s still pretty mellow on small swells though. Flatter days can be better for SUP touring in either direction along the coast. Summer is super busy with the shallows extremely crowded. Early morning or late evening can yield less hectic times. There\\\'s a surf school onsite hiring foamie surfboards, bodyboards and SUPs. They also do lessons. Lifeguards patrol the sands and the car park\\\'s pretty big. Although does also get rammed. Toilets are on site, as is a beach bar. Head back into the village for few more shops and refreshment options. La Tranche sur MEr is just along the coast. as is Saint Vincent sur Jard in the opposite direction.
Location:
Plage publique, Nice, Alpes-Maritimes, France.
Spot type:
Cosmopolitan city beach that can be flat or choppy depending on wind.
Conditions:
The French Riviera, with Nice being the capital of the area, is a buzzing resort. If you like celebrity spotting you may get lucky with St Tropez and Monaco being close by. Plage publique is the main put in along the cities seafront promenadee. It\\\\\\\'s a stoney beach that gives access to deep Mediterranean water. It\\\\\\\'s mostly flat although can get choppy if there\\\\\\\'s breeze. Any swell does also dump directly onto the beach. For adventure paddlers you can tour either right or left depending on your preferences and weather. Parking can be tricky along the promenande with lots of bars, restaurants shops and accommodation. The beach also gets hectic in high summer. Nice center offers a pleasant experience for anyone wanting a slice of French cafe culture. Plenty of eateries, boulangeries, charcuteries and such can also be found here. The old town walls are worth checking out.
Location:
Spot type:
Famed, experts only big wave spot.
Conditions:
Often referred to as the Hawaii of the Med Sardinia gets a healthy amount of surf (believe it or not). The jewel in the island\\\'s wave crow in Capo Mannu. Jutting into the sea CM picks up any waves going. But it\\\'s not for the inexperienced. This is a hardcore wave spot that features a rocky, urchin infested bottom and tricky put in/get out. Paddlers will need to be well versed in the art of wave riding to tackle Capo as there\\\'ll be no rescue should it all go awry. Definitely worth a look, however, if there\\\'s surf. Just for the spectacle alone.
Location:
Porto Pollo, Sardinia.
Spot type:
Flat water, to choppy if windy, with a choice of two bays to explore.
Conditions:
Porto Pollo is a premier windsurf resort that legend Robby Naish described as perfect. Featuring two bays the wind doesn\\\'t blow all the time leaving glassy summer mornings perfect for a spot of SUP. Abundant watersports centers onsite have paddle board hire and facilities. Plenty of accommodation can be found around Porto Pollo but it does get busy. And when the wind blows expect hordes to be afloat, whizzing back and forth. It\\\'s possible to downwind at this time but you\\\'ll need to be aware of what\\\'s going on. And have suitable experience.
Location:
Ibiza, Balearics, Spain.
Spot type:
Dance capital of the world and famed party island that also has a decent amount of SUP spots to choose from.
Conditions:
The party island of Ibiza mightn\\\'t be an obvious choice for a SUP holiday but away from the humming and buzzing of club land paddlers will discover an amazingly chilled and authentic Balearic experience. SUP has grown considerably on the island with a number of rental outlets and schools on the island. Ibiza\\\'s waters are mostly calm, although there are days when the chop, swell and wind build. You\\\'ll need to watch out for marine traffic in certain areas during summer. And it does get busy. Plenty of amenities can be found on the White Isle. Adventure paddlers with experience should have a look at the route across to neighboring Formentera. Just know what you\\\'re doing if you attempt the crossing.
Location:
Fornells Bay, Minorca, Balearics, Spain.
Spot type:
Super sheltered Med location that can get moderately choppy and breezy at times. Good for beginners.
Conditions:
Minorca\\\'s Fornells Bay is a haven for easy going watersports. It\\\'s open water but very sheltered. And whilst you do get breeze here (perfect for windsurfing and sailing) it\\\'s a very suitable SUP spot. Beginners and intermediates will do well here as Fornells is good for learning. There\\\'s a little current to keep in mind. And it does get choppy at certain points. Also, marine traffic and other water users should be kept clear of. You can find some amenities ashore, such as accommodation and hire centers. Whilst Minorce is busy during high season Fornells isn\\\'t quite as bombed out.
Location:
Peniche, Portugal.
Spot type:
Varied surf location, with some flat water, and also home to on of Europe\'s premier big waves - Nazare.
Codnitions:
Portugal\'s Peniche is the capital of surfing in the country with the fabled big wave spot of Nazare (Praia Norte) grabbing much media attention these days. Peniche isn\\\'t all big waves though. In fact, there are a number of flat water spots, suitable for SUP, in the area. Mellower waves can also be found if you fancy a spot of paddle surfing. The local towns and villages make the area particularly vibrant with plenty available for the traveller.
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Location:
West Beachlands, Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Exposed, and often choppy with wind West Beachlands can also be great for SUP friendly surf and flat water adventures.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-west-beachlands-hayling-island-hampshire/
Location:
Chichester shipping canal, Chichester, West Sussex.
Spot type:
Extremely sheltered flat water river that\'s great for touring, race training and beginners.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chichester-shipping-canal-chichester-west-sussex/
Location:
Chichester Harbour (south), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
Spot type:
Heavily tidal, but super flat and perfect venue for beginners and improvers.
Conditions:
https://mcconks.com/mcconks-stand-up-paddle-boarding-bitesize-travel-guides-chichester-harbour-south-hayling-island-hampshire/
Location:
Easkey, Sligo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Noted surf spot that\'ll test even the most experience SUP surfers.
Conditions:
One of the best reef point break set ups in Ireland Easkey lefts and rights is a location for the experienced rider only. Shallow, rocky and often rippy there\'ll be other surfers out when it\\\'s good. If flat you could potentially do some flat water investigating here. But know your limits and the conditions. Amenities in the village. Car parking can be OK. More to explore along this coastline.
Location:
Doo Lough, County Mayo, Ireland.
Spot type:
Awe-inspiring flat water lake that has lots of history. Never busy.
Conditions:
Predominantly flat water this deep water lough is notable for the site where at least seven (and perhaps 20 or significantly more) starving people died after being \\\'forced to walk for miles to present themselves for inspection\\\'. The valley is notorious for sudden changes in weather - squalls are quick to sweep in. And the wind can ramp up significantly. The lough chop too. When it\\\'s flat, however, it\\\'s an awe inspiring spot for flat water SUP. Parking is right next to the water. Can is mostly cold. There isn\\\'t much else in the area apart from the local activities center. You\\\'ll need to drive for facilities.
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Location:
Plage de Morpoigne, Jard sur Mer, Vendee, France
Spot type:
Semi sheltered spot that gets choppy with wind. Can also have waves on good days.
Conditions:
Plage de Morpoigne sits in the harbour town of Jard sur Mer and offers two paddling areas depending on tide. Inside the marina you\\\'ll find high tide flat water. Outside on the main beach it\\\'s more exposed and can get choppy. On its day there\\\'s also a small wave that\\\'ll break. Boat traffic - especially during high summer - is a lot. At quieter times of the year you\\\'ll be more alone. The town has a small and quaint seafront with a few bars and restaurants that are pretty good value. Other amenities are available too. Parking is surprisingly easy - even in summer. Lifeguards also patrol during silly season months.
Location:
Wissant, Pais de Calais, France.
Spot type:
Huge sandy beach that gets decent swell on its day. Can often be choppy but also option for SUP touring when flat.
Conditions:
Wissant is a vast sandy beach at low tide that\\\'s a Mecca for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The whole town whiffs of sail sports. If there\\\'s a blow the waves can build up and be significant - even this far up the Channel. High tide sees the beach disappear and surf become more spread out. When the wind drops off residual swell can be left which is great for SUP surfing. On flatter days recreational paddling is the go. But be careful of the longshore drift current which can be strong. Lifeguards are in operation during summer. And there\\\'s a good deal of parking. Although hi top vehicles may struggle to get into many. Onshore, right next to the beach, you\\\'ll find a trendy windsurf/kitesurf bar where it\\\'s fun to hang out. There are others dotted along the promenade. The town has a decent amount of restaurants and bars and there\\\'s lots of accommodation. BUT. Wissant gets rammed. Being so close to Calais sees all manner of visitors descend on the place. It can be hard to move in August. There are some much quieter paddling spots to either the left or right of Wissant. SUP hire is available if you want it.
Location:
Wimereux, Pais de Calais, France.
Spot type:
Exposed and choppy if windy. Flat a great for recreational SUP and touring when calmer.
Conditions:
Wimereux is a bustling town close to Boulogne that has a vibrant SUP scene. The beach disappears at high tide and can be tricky to access and get out of. There\\\'s often lots of backwash - especially if there\\\'s any swell and/or wind. Sand appears as the tide recedes and it gets much flatter on the water. Busy on the promenade there are beach huts, restaurants, bars and a few shops. Plus the local sailing club and surf school. Wimereux can get a weak wave if there\\\'s solid swell. It tends to be best towards the river. Just watch the current here. The town has plenty to see and do. But as with all French coastal towns it gets packed in August.
Location:
Lahinch Beach, County Clare, Ireland.
Spot type:
Famed Irish surf spot that\'s also pretty good for SUP, depending on experience.
Conditions:
Lahinch Beach is a real surfing town that gets super busy during summer. Even out of season can see crowds when the waves are good. The main beach has slightly mellower waves than nearby spots. Some of which can be world class and not for the inexperienced. SUP surfing is popular in town but you do need to be respectful of surfers. Lahinch Town has decent amenities with restaurants, pubs, surf shops and accommodation. Parking can sometimes be tricky. Definitely worth exploring this part of Ireland\\\'s coast if you can.
Location:
Sandy Bay, Magherabeg, Castlegregory, County Kerry, Ireland.
Spot type:
Sheltered, sometimes choppy, flat water location.
Conditions:
If you\\\'re heading to the Dingle Peninsula then Sandy Bay, on the opposite side of the more exposed Brandon Bay, offers much more shelter and flat water paddling. Jamie Knox Watersports is based here and the center hires kit and offers tuition. There are also plenty of other activities like surfing to make use of. All this area is a Mecca for watersports of all types. It can be popular in summer but goes quiet during winter. The weather may not be on your side though. Watch out for tides and currents. But do try a pint of black stuff in one of the local pubs.
Location:
Inch Beach, County Kerry, Dingle, Ireland.
Spot type:
Regional classic surf beach that has amazing vistas and amazing waves on its day.
Conditions:
A massive sand bar Inch Beach is cracking for waves and has enough room for all riders. Watch out for tides and currents flowing out of Castlemaine Harbour. Weather can be against you. But if you do score it Inch is an amazing place to paddle. Inch Reefs can also be worth a look if you have the skills. Dingle Town isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Carlingford Sailing Club, Carlingford Lough, Northern Ireland.
Spot type:
Flat to moderately choppy paddling on an inland lough.
Conditions:
Carlingford Lough is a Northern Irish fjord that can offer fairly sheltered paddling. It is tidal though so be aware of currents. Mostly Carlingford is a flat water paddling spot with easy access to surrounding towns. Carlingford Sailing Club is ok for beginners. Parking can be OK but it gets busy in summer.
Location:
Dollymount Strand, Dublin, Ireland
Spot type;
Dublin\'s main watersports beach. That also gets a ridable ferry wake with passing ships.
Conditions:
Dollymount is Dublin\\\'s main beach that has many paddlers and other water users frequenting. It can be quite choppy with a breeze and the current flowing in and out of the harbour strong. Passing ferries can kick up some ridable wake that local paddle surfers make use of. Alternatively, flat water touring is on the cards. Being Dublin there\\\'s plenty to see and do. Although Dollymount itself can be quieter than the city\\\'s center.
Location:
Lough Neagh, Antrim, Northern Ireland.
Spot type:
Exposed lough that can often be choppy although does have it\'s fair share of flat water days too.
Conditions:
Lough Neagh is a large inland lough that can be great for downwind paddling or recreational SUP depending on conditions. Even though there\\\'s no tide there can be currents and heavy chop. Access can be easy or tricky depending on where you launch from Antrim has plenty of amenities and Belfast isn\\\'t too far away.
Location:
Lake Annecy, Haute-Savoie, France.
Spot type:
Highly regarded alpine lake where there\'s lots of SUP happening.
Conditions:
Fed by mountain springs Lake Annecy is a picturesque freshwater lake sitting at the foot of the French Alps. There\\\'s a buzzing paddle board scene in Annecy with riders putting in right through the year - even in winter! At 14.6km long and 3.2km wide there\\\'s plenty of space to find your own SUP adventure. Lake Annecy can get pretty windy at times with chop increasing. There\\\'s also a lot of boat traffic to watch out for in summer. And obviously the cold out of high season. You can always head up a mountain for some ski or snowboard action if SUP isn\\\'t happening. The annual Gla Gla SUP race happens at Lake Annecy which attracts loads of paddlers from across the globe.
Location:
Lac du Cheveril, Tignes, France.
Spot type:
Small alpine lake that offers flat water SUP.
Conditions:
Tignes is a well trodden ski resort occupying the Espace Killy area. Yet right in the heart of this mountain village is a fresh water lake that you can SUP on. Lac du Cheveril is 25 hectares of cool mountain water that comes alive with watersports during the summer months. Stand up paddle boarding is popular when you have to trade your ski and snowboard boots in. Tignes itself has plenty to offer visitors - as you\\\'d expect from a ski resort. And Lake annecy isn\\\'t too far away if you fancy another alpine lake to paddle on. The water can be quite cold and refreshing. And weather can chonge quickly. So be aware and know what\\\'s going on.
Location:
Spot type:
Huge lake that has a vibrandt SUP scene.
Conditions:
Lake Geneva is one of the biggest lakes in Western Europe. Sitting at the northern end of the Alps this crescent shape expanse of water is cracking for flat water SUP. Especially in summer. There are a number of SUP rental outlets and schools dotted along the lake\\\'s shores. Paddle boarding is very popular here. In summer the lake gets very busy and you have pleasure boat traffic to contend with. There are buoyed off areas though. Geneva is a colourful Swiss city that\\\'s worth exploring on non-paddling days. And if there\\\'s snow you can always head up the moutain for a spot of different board sliding.
Location:
Lake Silvaplana, Engadine Valley, Grisons, Switzerland
Spot type:
Picturesque alpine lake that\'s flat during summer mornings,. Windy in the afternoon.
Conditions:
Lake Silvaplana is perhaps an unlikely watersports Mecca. Yet even based high in the Swiss mountains Silvaplana enjoys a reputation for all types of watersports - including SUP. A glacial lake the water is pretty cool and fresh. But during summer, when the weather\\\'s warm, it\\\'s nice to cool off. The whole Engadin region is very picturesque and you\\\'ll have plenty of company with lots of visitors. On flat days the lake is great for flat water SUP. Watch out for summer thermal winds when you get quite a choppy water state. And plenty of windsurfers and foilers to avoid. There are some good camping spots in the area and each the Engadin Wind event takes place which see lots fo pro windsurfers and foilers compete. Worth a look if you\\\'re here during the latter part of summer. Of course, skiing and snowboarding is also an option in the Swiss Alps.
Location:
Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal.
Spot type:
Choppy to flat semi exposed spot.
Conditions:
Praia da Rocha is the main tourist in Portugal\\\'s Algarve region. As such it gets a lot of tourist traffic in summer. Not as wavey as the country\\\'s Atlantic coast there\\\'s potential for a wave or two in and among flat water paddling. Strong thermal offshore winds blow in summer so watch out for that. And in some locations rocks and reef are prevalent. Make sure you keep tides in mind as this is an open water location. There can be some great adventure paddling to be had. And the local towns have all you need.
https://mcconks.com/sup-backyards-chris-jones-swedish-paddling-paradise/
Location:
Ortakent, Yahsi Plaji, Bodrum, Turkey.
Spot type:
Exposed but calm SUP during summer mornings. Afternoons get windy and choppy.
Conditions:
Over the years there have been several watersports centers in this area of the Bodrum Peninsula. Both Neilson and Sunsail have operated at various points. Neilson still have their Ortakent resort here which you could make use of if a no hassle holiday was on your agenda. Alterantively, if you bring your own gear the whole is ripe for discovery by SUP. Summer mornings start off usually glassy. The wind then builds through the day with an afternoon thermal kicking in. This can sometimes be strong. When it\\\'s calm you\\\'re free to tour up and down the coast or across to the island out in the bay. Just be aware of weather changing and have your safety points ticked off. There are plenty of hotels and accommodations around Bodrum. And Bodrum city itself is very colourful and worth a visit. Turkey is still relatively cheap for a SUP holiday too.
Location:
Pomena, Mljet, Croatia.
Spot type:
Picturesque location with sheltered SUP on offer.
Conditions:
The island of Mljet is an idyllic oasis perfect for recreational paddling. a short boat ride from Dubrovnik this island is sleepy and chilled. Pomena is a small port town that does get its share of boat traffic during high season. You can easily keep clear though. There\\\'s a hotel and a handful of bars right on site but not much else on the island. On the water there\\\'s a close offshore island that shelteres Pomena from wind and chop. You can get clear of this and well into open water. If there is breeze as soon as you round the island the sea gets whipped up considerably. Paddling inside the harbour is fine just watch mooring lines and boats. Inoand there\\\'s a small lake that you can paddle on. But be courteous and respectful. You\\\'ll probably be the only ones.
Location:
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Spot type:
Cosmopolitan beach with access to flat/choppy water.
Conditons:
A place where those wanting to be seen hang out Dubrovnik\\\'s Banje Beach is a sweet little put in for anyone wanting to check out Dubrovnik\\\'s old town from the water. It can be fairly choppy with any breeze. And the constant buzz of boats kicks up more wake. Mostly though it\\\'s a flat water spot. Keep clear of the marina as that gets busy in summer. You may struggle to park right next to Banje so a walk could be in order. There\\\'s plenty to see and do away from SUP.
Location:
Sandhaven Beach, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, Northumbria.
Spot type:
Beach with potential for all kinds of SUP.
Conditions:
There\'s plenty of SUP going down in South Shields. Sandhaven Beach is the town beach and offers flat to choppy conditions depending on weather. Stay well clear of river mouth as currents are strong. Not to mention the BIG boat traffic going in and out. Lots to see and do here in the town. With some quieter SUP spots up and down the coast.
Location:
St Andrews, Scotland.
Spot type:
Noted for its golf course but the diverse SUP potential is also great.
Conditions:
If you like gold and SUP then St Andrews could be a paddle spot to hit up. Conditions on the water are typically tidal. You\\\'ll need to be aware of the tide flowing out of the River Eden. If it\\\'s calm the adventure SUP opportunities round here are great. When there\'s breeze the chop and current can increase. There\\\'s a paddle board school on-site offering tuition. And there\\\'s lots to discover in town. Edinburgh isn\\\'t a million miles away.
Location:
Thurso, Scotland.
Spot type:
World class Scottish reef break with other pretty good waves also in the area.
Conditions:
One of the most northerly surf breaks in the UK Thurso is held in high regard by those who love waves of consequence. Some of the breaks in the area are truly world class. It is possible to paddle some of these but you\\\'ll need experience and good surf etiquette. When it goes flat or the swell\\\'s small touring opportunities open up. Just watch the weather changing and the usual hazards of open tidal water. Thurso is a fairly busy town so you\\\'ll find plenty away from paddling.
https://mcconks.com/sup-backyards-calais-to-boulogne-cote-dopale-france/
Location:
St Ouen\'s, The Splash, Jersey, Channel Islands.
Spot type:
Main Jersey surf spot that has a vibrant SUP scene.
Conditions:
The heart of Jersey\'s surf scene The Splash in St Quen\'s Bay is a fairly consistent beach break that has a vibrant wave riding scene (including SUP). On swell days it\\\'ll be busy. On solid surf days it\\\'s challenging. Often it\'s very doable for those paddlers with experience though. watch out for rips and tidal currents. Plus rocks in some places. Windy conditions make it very choppy. and you may struggle with parking during summer. There\\\'s plenty to see and do on Jersey. With more paddle put ins elsewhere on the island.
Location:
Shetland, Scotland.
Spot type:
Extremely exposed at some put ins on Shetland, whilst others are more sheltered. Diverse and interesting paddling of all types.
Conditions:
Shetland has become increasingly popular for SUP in recent years. With lots of flat water and sheltered paddling locations, the most northerly spot in the UK is certainly one to tick off the bucket list. Wild weather and strong tides make Shetland sometimes tricky. It may be better with a guide. There\\\'re a couple of SUP schools on the island. Lerwick is the main town and you\\\'ll find plenty of amenities here.
Location:
Upper Tamar Lake, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Sheltered inland reservoir not too far from Bude.
Conditions:
Upper Tamar Lake is a sheltered, flat water location that\'s great for beginner, recreational or mellow touring SUP. With an onsite activities center (operated by the South West Lakes Trust) it\'s a location where you can take those first forays into paddle boarding. If windy then the lake gets moderately choppy but otherwise it\'s devoid of most watery ruffles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjm5FsH6MX8
Location:
Roadford Lake, Devon.
Spot type:
Inland flat water lake with some shelter.
Conditions:
Roadford Lake is another spot in the SW Lakes portfolio. With a circumference of 13 miles Roadford is the biggest of the SW lakes and as such is slightly more exposed to prevailing weather. It\'s a hotspot for flat water windsurfing but also paddle boarding. When there is wind Roadford can become quite choppy. Although you may still find shelter in certain areas. The onsite activities centre can arrange equipment hire or you can launch your own SUP for a small fee. Camping is available right next to the lake.
For a more in depth overiew of Roadford Lake hit this link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7sUva46KAk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAdZxliDiNc
Location:
Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall.
Spot type:
West facing, exposed regional classic beach break at the heart of teh UK\'s Surf City.
Conditions:
Small to big waves depending on time of year. Super busy in summer when it\'s likely to be smaller. The home of the Boardmasters Festival. Some surprisingly good SUP touring routes when weather permits.
For more info check out this article.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTFOMg6lJnU
Location:
Praa Sands, Cornwall.
Spot type:
South facing, slightly less exposed beach break that works on small to medium swells.
Conditions:
Being a south facing beach break Praa Sands doesn\'t get the lion\'s share of swell in the area. But it does do pretty well - especially in shoulder seasons.
Praa\'s waves unload on a shallow sand bar just a few yards offshore from the main beach. Big swells tend to close out in whomping fashion. Boards do break and bodies also get slammed to sea floor! Smaller waves offer fast, peeling walls which can be fun on a SUP.
It can be fairly busy when working, although not as much as some of the surrounding breaks. Access is via steep road down to the main beach car park. There\'s a beach cafe right overlooking the water.
Summer can be flat bit is ok for recreational paddling and some touring SUP.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53B3kirJKC4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guBUbCH2b78
Location:
Gyllngvase Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Beach right next to Falmouth town with tidal water that\'s mostly flat. Waves can appear on certain conditions.
Conditions:
For the most part Gyllyngvase Beach is a flat water, to choppy tidal area. On calmer days it\'s a nice mooch around the area. If the swell\'s making it in then there are two reef breaks either side of the beach that can work. These can get busy but they are doable on a SUP if you\'re experienced.
Plenty of amenities can be found in Falmouth itself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdE5QN3xf7k
Location:
Sennen Beach, Cornwall.
Spot type:
Exposed beach break that picks up the most amount of swell probably in all of Cornwall and Devon.
Conditions:
If there\'s no swell at Sennen there\'s really no swell - so the saying goes. Sennen Beach is probably the biggest swell magnet in all of the South West. As such, if you\'re after SUP surfing conditions this is your spot. Although be aware that if the surf\'s solid Sennen will be huge!
At low tide Sennen Cove, Sennen Beach and Gwynver all link up. Just watch out for tides and getting cut off.
Penzance isn\'t too far away if you\'re after a town. Alternatively, there are lots of nooks and crannies to investigate round here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0pd-JfPOqM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nQp7QwM7fQ
Location:
Salcombe North Sands Beach, Salcombe, South Hams, Devon.
Spot type:
Heavily tidal estuary beach that can get a wave but offers mostly flat water touring.
Conditions:
Inside the mouth of Salcombe Harbour Estuary you\'ll find North Sands Beach. You\'ll need to watch out for strong tides and boating traffic here. But get it right and the harbour can be a great place to SUP. On occasion, a wave rolls into North Sands which can provide mellow SUP surfing conditions. An offshore sand bar offers up bigger surf, but usually only in winter. You need to know what you\'re doing if thinking of surfing the sand bar.
Salcombe is a buzzing harbour town that has quite a chic feel. There\'s plenty to see and do here away from the water.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gduh2fT5PGw
Location:
Sandy Beach, Lyme Regis, Dorset.
Spot type:
Semi-sheltered tidal venue that offers flat water paddling in the leigh of the harbour wall. In winter you may find a wave breaking here although Fossil Beach may be better for that.
Lyme Regis is a buzzing town in summer that goes much quieter during winter. This is also the Jurassic Coast so away from SUP why not try your luck with finding evidence of dinosaurs?
There are some great touring SUP routes in this area. And on their day some decent wave venues. Seek and ye shall find.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8tqzvparYw
These are guides to areas or regions, where there are a number of different paddling locations to explore. So if you’re heading to the area on a short adventure, be sure to check out what’s in your backyard!
SUP backyards: Calais to Boulogne, Cote d’Opale, France.
SUP backyards: Calais to Boulogne, Cote d’Opale, France.
SUP backyards: Indonesia paddle board destinations to check out.
SUP backyards: Indonesia paddle board destinations to check out.
SUP backyards: South Pembrokeshire, West Wales.
SUP backyards: Pembrokeshire, West Wales.
SUP backyards: Hayling Island, Hampshire.
SUP backyards: Hayling Island, Hampshire.
International SUP backyards: the Greek Ionian region.
SUP backyards takes in the Ionian region of Greece for this instalment. Sitting west of the Greek mainland the whole Ionian Sea area is vast.
SUP backyards: St. Ives, Cornwall.
SUP backyards: St. Ives, Cornwall.
SUP backyards: The Witterings, West Sussex area.
SUP backyards: The Witterings, West Sussex area.
Stand up paddle boarding and travel, even if not that far, go together like cheese ‘n’ pickle sandwiches. Whilst your local will be tried tested, and no doubt thoroughly enjoyed, new locations – offering differing vistas (particularly when viewed from atop a SUP) – can be just as fulfilling. In some cases your new favourite may be discovered by a sojourn elsewhere. And then there’s pushing your skill level with alternative destinations serving up more testing conditions, such as wave environments and so on.
With this in mind we’re slowly putting together a compendium of bitesize stand up paddle board locations and what they offer. This knowledge is all first hand rather than regurgitated tourist board blurb. So take it from us that we know these put ins, and if we don’t, we’ll have someone deliver the info who does.
Paddle boarding – looking for inspirational places to paddle in Wales?
Paddle boarding in Wales is something we love. The very lovely Lisa and Charlie Drewe have spent years exploring every last nook and cove of
McConks SUP travel guides: Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall.
McConks’ bitesize SUP travel guides: Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall.
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides 1: Roadford Lake, Dartmoor, Devon.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Roadford Lake, Dartmoor, Devon.
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Upper Tamar Lake, Bude, Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Upper Tamar Lake, Bude, Cornwall.
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Bantham, and River Avon, South Hams, Devon.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Bantham, and River Avon, South Hams, Devon.
McConks international bitesize SUP travel guides: Lac de Maine, Angers, Loire, France.
McConks international bitesize SUP travel guides: Lac de Maine, Angers, Loire, France. Location: Lac de Maine, Angers, Loire, France. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lac+de+Maine,+Angers,+France/@47.4604227,-0.6167934,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x48087f69aa102bcd:0xe1fa7a641fe8eb20!8m2!3d47.4646563!4d-0.5962963!16s%2Fg%2F11h1sx6rj?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Spot type: Sheltered, placid, city
McConks SUP travel guides: Antigua, Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks international bitesize paddle board guides: Antigua, Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales. Location: Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales Spot type: Open water, tidal, rocky and remote
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Manorbier, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Manorbier, Pembrokeshire, Wales. Location: Manorbier, Pembrokeshire, Wales. Spot type: Open water, tidal location that whilst often flat
McConks stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Pagham, West Sussex.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Pagham, Hampshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Milford on Sea, Lymington, Hampshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Milford on Sea, Lymington, Hampshire.
SUP backyards: Hayling Island, Hampshire.
SUP backyards: Hayling Island, Hampshire.
McConks SUP travel guides: Korcula, Southern Dalmatia, Croatia.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Korcula, Southern Dalmatia, Croatia.
McConks SUP travel guides: Barbados, Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Barbados, Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks SUP travel guides: Mar Menor, Murcia, Spain.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides Mar Menor, Murcia, Spain.
McConks SUP travel guides: Javea (Xabia), Costa Blanca, Spain.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Javea (Xabia), Costa Blanca, Spain.
McConks SUP travel guides: Ammoudia, Acheron Delta, Epirus, Greece.
McConks SUP travel guides: Ammoudia, Acheron Delta, Epirus, Greece. Location: Ammoudia, Acheron Delta, Epirus, Greece. https://www.google.com/maps?sca_esv=cc6d6b10f485ae1c&output=search&q=Ammoudia&source=lnms&fbs=AEQNm0Aa4sjWe7Rqy32pFwRj0UkWd8nbOJfsBGGB5IQQO6L3J5fCQuDw5vrzPt_cVO2GgWUj9lYp6rkuKNKs7T0vX7Q8Lk7PDqB_d8U_Xw31dTwojMPtSpfZp5BfTfcp_LRXNnvS3YL7q5dzlH4CL6wFMTUQAE8nSeYVIZCFcgfp59RZvATV1xjGTLeD8itoihovDp2a-rqX&entry=mc&ved=1t:200715&ictx=111 Spot type: Partially sheltered (in the bay), open water
McConks SUP travel guides: Airone, Sibari, Calabria, Italy.
McConks SUP travel guides: Airone, Sibari, Calabria, Italy. Location: Airone, Sibari, Calabria, Italy. https://www.google.com/maps/place/87011+Sibari,+Province+of+Cosenza,+Italy/@39.7609171,16.4602862,6067m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x133f60c5229ac681:0x9e76a84a2e84fdae!8m2!3d39.7478528!4d16.4532199?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Spot type: Open water, Mediterranean locations exposed to the Mistral wind
McConks SUP travel guides: Budoni, Sardinia (Baia dei Mori), Italy.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Budoni, Sardinia (Baia dei Mori), Italy.
McConks SUP travel guides: Il de Re & Il d’Oleron, France.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Il de Re & Il d’Oleron, France
SUP spots for beginners – 5 great locations in the north.
SUP spots for beginners – 5 great locations in the north.
McConk SUP travel guides: Bude Canal, Bude, Cornwall.
Location: Bude Canal, Bude, Cornwall. Spot type: Manmade, inland waterway sheltered from all weathers and non-tidal. Conditions: Bude canal is very sheltered. Whilst not what
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Instow (Crow Point) to Northam Burrows.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Instow (Crow Point) to Northam Burrows.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Abbotsham Cliffs to Buck’s Mill, North Devon.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Abbotsham Cliffs to Buck’s Mill, North Devon.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Caledonian Canal (The Great Glen).
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Caledonian Canal (The Great Glen).
McConks bitesize SUP travel guides: Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks bitesize SUP travel guides: Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks bitesize SUP travel guides: Amroth Beach (Telpyn), Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Amroth Beach (Telpyn), Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks SUP travel guides: Kihei to Lahaina, (south shore) Maui, Hawaii.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Kihei to Lahaina, (south shore) Maui, Hawaii.
McConks SUP travel guides: Grand Anse Bay, Grenada (Spice Isle), Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Grand Anse Bay, Grenada (Spice Isle), Caribbean, West Indies.
McConks SUP travel guides: Vassiliki Bay, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Vassiliki Bay, Lefkas, Ionian, Greece.
McConks SUP travel guides: Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian Islands, Greece (north).
McConks SUP travel guides: Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian Islands, Greece (north). Location: Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian, Greece (north) https://www.google.com/maps/place/Zakynthos/@37.7885961,20.4768012,99801m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x136740cadc7b5abf:0x27a074dbe04c2ad1!8m2!3d37.7870331!4d20.8998759?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Spot type: The third largest of the Ionian
McConks SUP travel guides: Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands.
McConks SUP travel guides: Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands.
McConks’ bitesize international SUP travel guides: Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands.
McConks bitesize SUP travel guides: Studland Bay, Dorset.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Studland Bay, Dorset.
McConks bitesize SUP travel guides: Harlyn Bay, North Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Harlyn Bay, North Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Mudeford Harbour, Christchurch, Dorset.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Mudeford Harbour, Christchurch, Dorset
McConks SUP travel guides: Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight.
McConks SUP travel guides: Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset.
McConks SUP travel guides: Brighton seafront (West Pier), East Sussex.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Brighton seafront (West Pier), East Sussex.
McConks SUP travel guides: Symonds Yat West, Herefordshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Symonds Yat West, Herefordshire.
McConks SUP travel guides: Polzeath, Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Polzeath, Cornwall. Location: Polzeath, Wadebridge, Cornwall Google Maps location here. Spot type: Classic Cornish surfing beach that’s fairly hemmed in, has
McConks SUP travel guides: Daymer Bay, Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Daymer Bay, Wadebridge, Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Marazion, Mount’s Bay, Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Marazion, Mount’s Bay, Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Swanage Bay, Dorset.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Swanage Bay, Dorset.
McConks travel guides: Lechlade upon Thames
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Lechlade upon Thames
McConks SUP travel guides: Kimmeridge Bay, Jurassic Coast, Dorset.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Kimmeridge Bay, Jurassic Coast, Dorset.
McConks SUP travel guides: Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Abingdon-on-Thames river tributary, Oxfordshire.
McConks SUP travel guides: Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight.
McConks SUP travel guides: Harlyn Bay, Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides Harlyn Bay, Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Widemouth Bay, Bude, Cornwall.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Widemouth Bay, Bude, Cornwall.
McConks SUP travel guides: Croyde Bay, North Devon.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Croyde Bay, North Devon.
McConks SUP travel guides: Esso Beach (Langstone Harbour), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Esso Beach (Langstone Harbour oyster beds), Hayling Island, Hampshire.
McConks SUP travel guides: Whitesands Bay, St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Whitesands Bay, St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Langstone, Chichester Harbour (north), Hampshire.
McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Langstone, Chichester Harbour (north), Hampshire.