Whether on an ocean, lake or river, paddle boarding provides a feeling of freedom like nothing else. Super easy to master and allowing you to explore areas you’d simply never reach just on foot, the amount of stunning SUP destinations across the globe is breath-taking – with plenty to choose from!
So, whether you’re an avid SUP fan or just dipping your toes into the world of paddle boarding, here’s our ultimate SUP bucket list with some spectacular destinations we can’t wait to travel to ourselves.
Lake Tahoe, California
Hailed as one of the most popular SUP locations in the entire world, California’s Lake Tahoe is definitely worthy of its status. The biggest alpine lake across the whole of North America, Lake Tahoe offers crystal clear waters and stunning panoramic views.
Providing perfect conditions from spring through to early autumn, you can even experience visibility of up to 21 metres below water if you catch the lake on a good day! Ideal for beginners and offering a stunning combination of crystal water, alpine trees and snow-capped mountains, Lake Tahoe is the ultimate bucket list SUP spot if you’re looking for somewhere calming and full of natural beauty.
Laguna Paron
Hailed as one of the most beautiful spots across the whole of Peru, Laguna Paron is a South American gem. Located in the Huascaran National Park just a couple of hours from Huaraz, you can expect bright blue water and stunning surrounding mountain views.
Better still, Huaraz is famous for its other outdoor activities. From snowboarding to hiking to mountain biking, there’s a whole load of fun to be had in this part of the world! Head to Laguna Paron for some serene paddle boarding, then pop your SUP onto your roof bars and drive to Huaraz for some epic outdoor adventures.
Moraine Lake
Canada’s iconic Banff lakes are any SUP lover’s dream – especially Moraine Lake. Surrounded by the ever-famous Valley of the Ten Peaks, the crisp turquoise waters of this lake are calm and guaranteed to feel smooth and seamless as you glide.
It’s typically best to visit this part of the world during summer, with June and July being ideal. The warmer weather provides perfect conditions to explore the lake, and there’ll be plenty of opportunity to take some stunning photos too!
Oahu, Hawaii
Where SUP boarding originally started back in the 1900s, Hawaii is the perfect destination to go back to where it all began – and experience some stunning scenery along the way.
Known for gorgeous beaches and stunning marine life, boarders have the ability to reach miles away from shore due to the calm ocean waters. Whilst some spots should be avoided due to their surfer-paradise waves, there’s still plenty of Oahu beaches that provide perfect paddle boarding conditions.
Al Moana Beach is renowned for calm waters virtually all year round, making it a great destination during Hawaii’s winter months when other beaches are often dominated by high surf conditions.
Lanikai Beach is another of Oahu’s top SUP locations, due to its stunning turquoise waters and calm tranquility. While only half a mile long, there’s still plenty to explore with breath-taking views to be had.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
As one of the most water-rich places in Europe, it should come as no surprise that Slovenia is home to plenty of stunning SUP locations – Lake Bled being one of the best.
Top of virtually everyone’s list who visits this stunning country, Lake Bled is a tranquil alpine lake and features Slovenia’s only official island right in its centre. Featuring flat water throughout and an ideal spot for beginners to learn their craft, Lake Bled is a real winner.
And there you have it – some top SUP destinations you’ll definitely want to add to your bucket list! No matter your ability, mastering the art of paddle boarding is simple and easy, especially with calm water on your side. And with the chance to explore brand-new places and take some incredible photos along the way, what’s not to love?!
Now for the most important question of all: where’s next on your list?