Stand Up Paddleboarding Pro Tips

Hey, fellow paddleboarders! 🌊 Whether you’re a seasoned SUP-er (Stand Up Paddleboarder) or just dipping your toes into the world of paddleboarding, the UK has some epic spots for your next adventure. Grab your board, and let’s dive into the best places to paddle, and a few must-know safety tips before you hit the water.

 

🌍 Top UK Paddleboarding Spots You Need to Check Out (Including Some Secret Gems!)

When it comes to paddleboarding in the UK, everyone knows about popular spots like Windermere and Cornwall. But if you want to venture off the beaten path and find those secret paddling havens, we’ve got you covered! Here are the top locations, including a few hidden gems you won’t find on every SUP blog.

 

1. The Lake District – Windermere and Beyond

Coordinates: 54.3626° N, 2.9397° W (Windermere) Windermere is the go-to paddleboarding spot, but if you want something a little quieter, head to Derwentwater or Ullswater. The waters are just as beautiful, and you won’t have to dodge as many tourist boats.

 

Secret Spot: Crummock Water

Coordinates: 54.5644° N, 3.3050° W

Crummock Water is a lesser-known lake nestled between Buttermere and Loweswater. It’s tranquil, with breathtaking views of the surrounding fells. This spot feels remote, yet it’s only a short walk from Buttermere village. Pack your board, paddle out, and enjoy a peaceful session on this stunning lake.

 

2. Cornwall’s Hidden Coves

Coordinates: 50.2040° N, 5.4790° W (St Ives) Cornwall is home to some of the UK’s most incredible coastlines, but it can get busy during the summer months. For a more serene experience, check out Porthpean Beach, just south of St Austell, or paddle out from Looe Beach for an incredible view of Looe Island.

 

Secret Spot: Prussia Cove

Coordinates: 50°06'09.0"N 5°26'17.9"W

Nestled between Penzance and Helston, Prussia Cove is a hidden gem. The crystal-clear water and rugged coastline make it perfect for paddleboarding, especially at high tide when you can explore the many rock formations and sea caves.

 

3. The Norfolk Broads – Hidden Waterways

Coordinates: 52.7042° N, 1.5435° E (Wroxham) The Norfolk Broads are known for their tranquil waterways, but most people stick to the more popular spots like Wroxham Broad. To really get away from it all, head to Horsey Mere. It’s quieter and surrounded by nature, giving you a true “away from it all” experience.

 

Secret Spot: Dilham Staithe to Honing Lock

Coordinates: 52.7696° N, 1.4402° E

This hidden stretch on the North Walsham and Dilham Canal is an undiscovered paradise. Paddle your way through reeds and trees, and you’ll barely encounter a soul. It’s a peaceful, slow-moving waterway ideal for a calm paddleboarding day.

 

4. Brighton’s Beyond – Hidden Beach Paddles

Coordinates: 50.8195° N, 0.1364° W (Brighton Beach) Brighton is always a fun vibe, but if you're after less crowded waters and more scenic views, there are a few hidden gems nearby that are perfect for paddleboarding.

 

Secret Spot: Rottingdean

Coordinates: 50.8053° N, 0.0566° W

 

Just east of Brighton, Rottingdean Beach is a quieter alternative. It’s less packed with tourists and still offers beautiful paddleboarding conditions. From here, you can paddle along the chalk cliffs and enjoy the dramatic views without the noise of the Brighton crowds.

 

5. Scotland – The West Coast’s Secret Isles

 

Coordinates: 56.3387° N, 5.5182° W (Oban) Scotland’s west coast is a paddleboarder’s dream, with rugged landscapes and crystal-clear waters. While places like Oban are well known, there are countless secret islands and coves waiting to be discovered.

 

Secret Spot: Isle of Gigha

Coordinates: 55.6854° N, 5.7379° W

This small island off the Kintyre Peninsula has some of the clearest waters you’ll ever paddle in. Gigha is a peaceful paradise, where you can explore sandy beaches and turquoise seas. Paddle around the island and you might just have the place to yourself!

 

6. Wales – Pembrokeshire’s Secret Lagoons

 

Coordinates: 51.6746° N, 4.6989° W (Freshwater West) Pembrokeshire has some of the most dramatic coastlines in the UK, and while spots like Freshwater West are well-known for surfing, there are hidden lagoons perfect for paddleboarding.

 

Secret Spot: Blue Lagoon, Abereiddy

Coordinates: 51.9382° N, 5.2050° W

This former slate quarry near Abereiddy Beach is a hidden jewel of Pembrokeshire. Known as the Blue Lagoon, this enclosed area offers deep blue waters and sheltered conditions, making it a unique spot for paddleboarding.

 

Secret Spot: High Tide Pools at Porth-y-Garan, Anglesey

Coordinates: 53°15'36.8"N 4°36'42.6"W

 

Nestled near the stunning beach of Pant-yr-Hyman, just west of Red Wharf Bay on Anglesey’s northeast coast, lie the magical high tide pools that are perfect for adventurous paddleboarders. These natural pools are carved into the rocky shoreline and fill with crystal-clear seawater during high tide, creating a series of hidden lagoons just waiting to be explored.

 

At high tide, these pools are an ideal spot for paddleboarders who want to experience the serenity of gliding through sheltered, calm waters surrounded by Anglesey's rugged beauty. The rock formations and blue water make for an Instagram-worthy backdrop, with few other paddlers around. The pools are relatively shallow, making this spot great for a relaxed paddle or even a bit of SUP yoga, as the water remains calm within the rock barriers.

 

Timing your visit with high tide is crucial, as the pools empty out when the tide recedes, exposing the rocky seabed. Pant-yr-Hyman is a fantastic place for those looking to combine paddleboarding with a bit of coastal exploration, as the area is rich with marine life, rock pools, and dramatic views along the coastal path.

 

Pro Tip: The pools at Pant-yr-Hyman are a bit off the beaten track, so be sure to plan ahead. Bring a tide chart and aim for a visit at mid- to high tide for the best paddling experience. Pack a dry bag with essentials, and remember to wear sturdy shoes for navigating the rocky shoreline.

 

7. The Isles of Scilly – Island-Hopping Paradise

 

Coordinates: 49.9225° N, 6.2977° W (St Mary’s Island) Located 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are a paddleboarder’s dream. Paddle from island to island across crystal-clear waters, with stunning white-sand beaches at every stop.

 

Secret Spot: Samson Island

Coordinates: 49.9325° N, 6.3533° W

Samson is a deserted island in the Scillies, where you can paddle in utter tranquility. Bring a picnic, explore the beaches, and enjoy an uninterrupted day in paradise.

Pro Tip: While these spots are epic for paddleboarding, always check local conditions before heading out. Some areas, especially coastal spots, can have unpredictable tides and currents.

 

Benefits of Using an Inflatable SUP

Portability & Storage

One of the biggest advantages of inflatable SUPs is how easy they are to transport and store. You can deflate the board, roll it up, and carry it in a backpack or store it in the boot of your car. No need for roof racks or finding a large storage space in your home.

 

Durability

Inflatable SUPs are built tough! Most are made with military-grade PVC, which makes them surprisingly durable. They’re highly resistant to dings, dents, and scratches, meaning you can take them on rivers, rocky shores, or beach landings without worrying about damage.

 

Versatility for All Conditions

Inflatable boards are often more forgiving in choppy water and handle a variety of conditions well. They provide a slightly softer ride, which can be great for beginners or those who prefer a more stable platform. Whether you're paddling in calm lakes, slow rivers, or along the coast, inflatables tend to perform well across different environments.

 

🔧 SUP Accessories: What to Look Out For

Kayak Conversion Kit

Want to mix things up? Some inflatable SUPs can be converted into a sit-on-top kayak with a simple kayak conversion kit. These usually include a seat attachment and a paddle that can be converted into a double-bladed kayak paddle. It’s great for when you want to take a break from standing, explore longer distances, or paddle in windy conditions where sitting might be more comfortable and stable. The kit turns your SUP into a multi-use board, giving you more bang for your buck!

 

Electric Pumps

While manual pumps work just fine, an electric pump can be a game-changer, especially if you’re inflating your board frequently. With an electric pump, you can inflate your board to the correct PSI in just minutes, saving time and effort. Look for models that can be plugged into your car’s 12V socket (or have a rechargeable battery), and make sure they have an automatic shut-off feature when the board reaches the right pressure. This way, you can focus on prepping for your session while the pump does the heavy lifting.

 

Leash & Fins

Never underestimate the importance of a good leash! A coiled leash is ideal for SUPs as it stays out of the water and reduces drag, keeping your board close if you fall off. For fins, inflatable SUPs usually come with removable fins—make sure to use a larger center fin for better tracking in flat water, or smaller fins for increased maneuverability in rivers or waves. The flexibility of interchangeable fins means you can adjust your setup depending on the water conditions and your paddling style.

 

🌊 Safety First! (Because No One Wants a Paddleboard Mishap)

We know, we know. Safety talk can be a bit of a buzzkill, but trust us—you’ll have way more fun out on the water when you’re well-prepared. Here's your checklist for a safe SUP session:

 

Know the water temperature – UK waters can get chilly, especially if you’re paddling in the early morning or off-season. Wearing the right wetsuit is key. You don’t want to turn into a popsicle halfway through your session.

 

Check tide tables and wind conditions – Offshore winds might sound cool, but they can quickly push you out to sea. Always check the weather and tide conditions before you head out, and make sure you're comfortable with the currents.

 

Bring a dry bag with your essentials – A dry bag is your best friend. Throw in your phone, a map, a snack, and maybe a warm layer, just in case. And don’t forget that your phone is your lifeline in an emergency!

 

Leash up! – Always wear your ankle leash. If you fall off your board (hey, it happens to the best of us), the leash keeps your board close so you’re not stranded.

 

Buddy up or tell someone where you’re going – Solo paddling can be peaceful, but always let someone know where you’re heading, or better yet, bring a friend along for the ride.

 

Respect local rules and wildlife – Stay out of restricted areas and keep your distance from wildlife. You’re there to enjoy nature, not disturb it!

 

📝 Licensing and Insurance for Paddleboarding in the UK

Before you head out on certain waterways in the UK, like rivers, canals, and lakes, it’s essential to check if you need a license. Many inland waterways, such as those managed by the Canal & River Trust, require paddlers to have a license, which can be obtained directly from them or through memberships with organizations like British Canoeing. Their “Waterways License” covers over 4,500 km of rivers and canals across England and Wales. For as little as £45 a year, you’re covered for paddling in a wide range of locations. Scotland’s waterways, however, generally don’t require a license. As for insurance, while not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to get public liability insurance. This covers you if you accidentally cause damage to property or injure someone while paddleboarding. Many paddleboarding associations, like British Canoeing, include insurance as part of their membership, making it a smart choice for peace of mind when you’re out on the water.

 

🙌 Final Thoughts

Paddleboarding in the UK is an amazing experience, with endless locations to explore and boards to suit every rider. Whether you're a newbie or a SUP pro, the most important thing is to have fun and stay safe. So, get out there, catch some views, and make the most of your time on the water. 🌊✨

 

And remember, be sure to live your best Life on the Board!