10 of the Top-Rated Paddleboarding Experiences Around the World Per Viator Travelers
Some people travel to relax. Others travel to try new, adrenaline-inducing activities they can’t do at home. If you sit somewhere in the middle and enjoy a gentle workout and beautiful views when you’re on vacation, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) might be your ideal travel activity—or at least worth a try. Paddleboarding requires some strength and stability, but it’s easy to pick up with a bit of expert instruction; almost all top paddleboarding experiences include basic training before you hit the water.
Whether your next travel destination is Florida or Mexico, the Canary Islands or Hawaii, put these epic paddleboarding trips on your itinerary. From gentle family-friendly floats to thrilling white-water experiences, here are 10 must-try paddleboarding experiences around the world.
1. Spot turtles on a private paddleboarding tour in Maui, Hawaii, US
Hawaii is a dream destination for ocean lovers, so naturally it’s one of the best paddleboarding destinations in the US. On a Maui SUP tour, you'll paddle along the coastline of Maui from Kihei to see cliffs formed by lava, dramatic volcanoes, and beaches you couldn’t reach any other way. You might even spot local marine life, such as turtles. The tour is private so you can go at your own pace and receive the level of instruction you need, whatever your experience with paddleboarding.
What one reviewer said: “We had the best time paddleboarding. Two of us were beginners and Sky, our instructor, was so helpful and patient and soon we were all standing and paddling. It was the best activity on our trip here.” Stephanie_S, August 2024
2. Salute the sun and sea during SUP yoga in Honolulu, Hawaii, US
If you're vacationing on another Hawaiian island, Oahu, start the day right with SUP yoga in Honolulu. If you thought paddleboarding and yoga individually tested your balance and core strength, just wait until you try combining them. This paddleboarding-meets-yoga activity adapts familiar yoga poses for the ocean, swapping a mat for a board in one of the best paddleboarding spots around the world.
What one reviewer said: “Absolutely loved this experience! The instructor was friendly and easy to follow and the setting was amazing as well. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a great start to their morning!” Caylor_H, October 2024
3. Paddle with a naturalist guide in West Palm Beach, Florida, US
Florida is also one of the best places for paddleboarding in the US. It’s a fun alternative to taking boat tours through sensitive ecological areas, as you move calmly and quietly through the water. On this paddleboarding tour from West Palm Beach, you’ll paddle with a naturalist guide through the mangrove forests of Singer Island and the Jupiter Waterways, and learn about the unique ecosystem.
What one reviewer said: “Our group of six ladies had a blast with Marissa. She was a great leader, was very patient with our group, and really worked with our varied levels of SUP abilities. She also gave us great info on the local wildlife and plants.” Maggie_S, April 2024
4. Meet the manatees of Silver Springs, Florida, US
Many people explore the artesian springs of Silver Springs State Park, Florida in glass-bottomed kayaks, which provide unobstructed views of the crystal-clear water. On this wildlife adventure you can choose a transparent kayak or a paddleboard to suit your needs, making it easy to spot the manatees, turtles, and monkeys that inhabit the area.
What one reviewer said: “We saw a ton of manatees and went out on a very easy kayak ride. Bob and Guy, our guides, were amazing. They got us in all the right spots to see the manatees, we got to see pods of them. Saw a huge gator and our kids had a blast.” Raul_R, February 2025
5. Try flatwater paddleboarding on the Colorado River, Utah, US
The wild Colorado River might not seem like a popular paddleboarding location since it’s beloved among white-water rafters and kayakers. But if you’re seeking something a bit gentler and suitable for the whole family, try paddleboarding on calm stretches of the river instead. This paddleboarding river tour from Moab follows a calm 6-mile (9.6-kilometer) stretch of river along the boundary of Arches National Park, providing dramatic views of red sandstone cliffs and rock formations.
What one reviewer said: “The river was beautiful and the guides were great … The guides really knew how to cater to the children while keeping everyone else engaged too. Lots of extra information on local wildlife and river facts were thrown in as well. Being able to stop and swim […] really helped beat the heat.” Adam_E, August 2024
6. Watch the sunrise from the lagoon in Bacalar, Mexico
It might be hard to get up early on vacation, but watching the sunrise over Lake Bacalar in Quintana Roo should be a good incentive to set your alarm early. This private paddleboarding tour takes you onto the lagoon at sunrise for lovely views and a peaceful way to start the day. Plus, snacks and drinks are provided so you don’t need to rush back to the hotel for breakfast.
What one reviewer said: “Amazing experience! The sunrise in the lagoon is breathtaking. The water is super warm. Highly recommend it to anyone.” Kathy_T, May 2024
7. Cruise to hidden paddleboarding spots in the Canary Islands, Spain
Skip the busy beaches of Gran Canaria on this private half-day catamaran cruise. Sail away from the crowds and out to hidden beaches with shallow waters, ideal for paddleboarding and snorkeling—gear is provided. Lunch and alcoholic drinks—including local sangria—are also served aboard the catamaran, so you can refuel after your paddling adventures.
What one reviewer said: “We were collected at our villa and taken to the beautiful boat; it was spotless and we were made to feel very welcome. We had drinks and the most delicious lunch, and we stopped to swim and paddleboard. The couple running this were so lovely—it was our favorite day of the holiday.” Colleen_S, January 2025
8. Get a workout in the mangroves of Curacao
The beautiful Caribbean island of Curaçao is known for its beaches, caves, and diving; the mangrove forests are also worth exploring by paddleboard. This paddleboarding eco-tour takes you into the mangroves within the Spanish Waters, a sheltered lagoon in the island’s south. It’s an active excursion that’s suitable for both paddleboarding beginners and pros.
What one reviewer said: “This excursion is a full body workout, with a focus on feet! Be prepared to paddle for at least an hour/hour and a half, in mostly calm waters and a stint in slightly choppier waters. It was a beautiful, tranquil, and educational adventure. Our guide Mat was knowledgeable and personable. Would highly recommend it for people who like active vacations.” Milan_M, October 2024
9. Explore the Cornish coast by paddleboard from Newquay, England
The northern coast of Cornwall is well loved for its rugged cliffs and sheltered coves. Surfing is especially popular here, but paddleboarding lets you explore the coast—and take in the views in a way that fast-paced surfing doesn't allow. This paddleboarding tour from Newquay is suitable for all levels as it includes a thorough training before setting off.
What one reviewer said: “Five rookies: two incapable and nervous parents and three kids aged 12, 10, and 8. Jacob provided instruction on what to expect, how to position ourselves on the board, and to use the paddle before he took us out onto the water … Thoroughly enjoyable, well instructed and made to feel comfortable from beginning through end.” A Tripadvisor Reviewer, September 2024
10. Dial up the thrills while whitewater paddleboarding in Bovec, Slovenia
If you’ve mastered the art of paddleboarding on flat, calm water, maybe it’s time to try white water—possibly one of the most exciting paddleboarding adventures worldwide. During this white-water padding excursion on the Soca River from Bovec, you’ll learn the tips and tricks you need to ride the rapids atop a paddleboard. You won’t necessarily stay dry—or remain on the board throughout the whole ride—but safety gear is provided.
What one reviewer said: “What a great adventure paddling white water on Soca River. Sebi did a brilliant job. First he explained everything in theory and checked all the equipment. Then we trained in an eddy and he checked one-to-one if everybody [was] prepared before we started paddling. I always felt very safe on the trip.” A Tripadvisor Reviewer, November 2024
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