OUR HIGHEST RATED DESTINATIONS FOR PADDLING
Paddleboarding has become one of the most accessible water sports there is, not only because anyone can get on a board but also because you can paddle just about anywhere on the planet! Whether it's oceans, lakes, or rivers there is a paddleboard to suit any type of water condition, from surfing to multi-day touring, not to mention it is a great way to keep active and explore what nature has to offer. And now with inflatable paddle boards becoming smaller and lighter, there is no place that can’t be explored by paddleboard.
We’ve put together this list of our top 10 places in the world to take your paddleboard and we hope it inspires you to plan your next paddle boarding vacation.
1. HAWAII
Crisp white beaches, clear blue water, hot days, and an abundance of sea turtles make Hawaii the top of our paddleboard list. Each island has its unique spin on the laid back vibe and offers spectacular and breathtaking scenery. In the winter you can catch monster waves on the shores of some of the most renowned surf breaks and in the summer months you can relax and enjoy the tranquil tides. Hawaii does have something to offer for every paddleboarder, whether it's ocean fishing or SUP surfing your into.
Todd Caranto catching a big wave on the North Shore of Oahu.
Pau Hana translates to ‘work is done’ in Hawaiian.
2. BARBUDA
Located in the Caribbean, Barbuda was shattered by hurricane Irma in 2017, a category 5 storm that caused almost 95% devastation. Barbuda only reopened its doors to guests in 2019 and the island has largely been untouched by tourism. Barbuda is known for its secluded pink sand beaches, palm trees and it bird sanctuary hosting over 150 species of different birds. If you are looking for a tropical paddle board getaway then Barbuda is our choice. Why not try circumnavigating the island?
Barbudas pink sandy beaches make a unique paddling destination.
3. SLOVENIA
Slovenia is located in Central Europe, nestled neatly between Austria, Croatia, and Italy. Steeped in charming rustic culture it is a country known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes. Being landlocked, you won’t find a coastline here but the copious amounts of fresh water will get you just as excited. Lake Bled is a glacial lake fed by hot springs and is Slovenia's best-known beauty spot featuring a church on a tiny island and a medieval castle clinging to a rocky cliff, it is a must-do for those traveling with a paddleboard. The Soča river located in Bovec boasts the most beautiful emerald-green, crystal clear waters. The Soča is a hub for kayakers and has whitewater from grades I-V and flat meandering sections of water, perfect for those wanting to test out their whitewater SUP skills or floating with the family through the picturesque valley.
Lake Bled in Slovenia. Image by Djordje Petrovic from Pexels
4. NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand's friendly relaxed vibe makes a welcoming destination for travelers from across the globe. Consisting of two islands, New Zealand has a lot to offer from the rugged mountains of the far south to the pristine white tropical beaches in the north. Water is everywhere and you are never more than a couple of hours from the coast. There are many stunning lakes and rivers to explore and the geothermal activity makes finding hot pools an easy endeavor. Home of some consistent surf beach breaks, and the famous 90-mile beach, New Zealand is a paradise for water lovers.
Paddleboarding on the Kaituna river in New Zealand. Image by Fantail Photos.
5. BALI
Located in the tropical waters of Indonesia, Bali is a well-known destination for surfers and yogis alike. The island has surf all year round and during May-August you will find it on the West and September - April on the East, which also means you can take the opposite side if you want some calm and relaxing swells. Bali has become a great place for yoga retreats, spas and luxury at a fraction of the price you would pay in other parts of the globe, which is why we are a fan of the beautiful, wallet-friendly island.
Bali's breathtaking views. Image by Nick Wehrli from Pexels.
6. NORWAY
For those seeking adventure and exploration the Scandinavian country Norway is the place you should head to. With Northern Norway in the Arctic Circle, you can expect perpetual daylight in the summer months, winters on the other hand are dark and long. However the many fjords, alpine lakes, and rugged coastline there is to explore, all nestled between breathtaking scenery make the trip to Norway worth its while. If you're lucky you might even catch a spectacular glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis in Norway. Image by Stein Egil Liland from Pexels.
7. CANADA
Canada has over 2,000,000 lakes, which is more lake mass than any other country, and it contains much of the world's freshwater. Many of these are high alpine lakes begging to be explored by paddleboarders. The Canadian Rockies run through the mid-west of Canada and in turn bring glaciers, wilderness, and wildlife, in particular brown bears and grizzly feeding on the salmon in the rivers and bald eagles circling above. Canada is a must for those seeking a real wilderness experience.
Taking in the views of the Canadian Rockies. Image by Andre Furtado from Pexels.
8. ITALY
Northern Italy is situated in the Alps while the south expands into the mediterranean sea. Italy is a rich cultural country with lots of history to offer, great coffee and amazing Italian food. Venice is a maze of canals to explore and there is no better way to do that than by paddleboard. Italy’s hot weather extends south where you can find ample paddling on the coast, inland lakes, and around the marinas spying on the fancy yachts of the rich and famous.
Italy's stunning coast villages. Image by Frans Van Heerden from Pexels.
9. BAHAMAS
The Bahamas consists of 700 islands and boasts some of the clearest waters in the world. It's in these clear waters you will be able to see stingrays, sharks, and even swimming pigs! Why not make it a trip of a lifetime and hire a yacht to sail around the islands to explore the best paddling spots and secluded beaches the Bahamas has to offer.
Bahamas by night. Image by Francisco Cornellana Castells from Pexels.
10. FIJI
Fiji deserves to be on the top ten list for its gorgeous waters and world-class surf. Home to the famous Cloudbreak surf spot, Fiji is well known among surfers but has a lot to offer for all watermen or water women. The coral reefs surrounding Fiji offer some incredible snorkeling, which you can paddle out to with some snorkeling gear and a leash. If deep-sea diving is more your style you can hire a guide to show you around some great dive sites, there is also the option of taking diving courses for those interested in becoming PADI certified. In between catching waves, down winding, and taking in the softer swells why not opt for a fishing charter and reel in a Mahi Mahi.
View over Fiji's remarkable landscape. Image by Prem Kurumpanai on Unsplash.
Do you have a destination you think should be on our list? Let us know in the comments.
Written by Jennifer Chrimes
CHECK OUT OUR GALLERY
JOIN THE OHANA
Enter your email and receive the latest news and stories from the Pau Hana ohana.