Paddleboarding has gained popularity in recent years and more people are trying SUP (Stand up Paddleboarding) than ever before. Paddleboarding is not difficult and the rider can become proficient with their board in one day. Today’s paddle boards are incredibly stable and can support over two hundred pounds. Boards range anywhere from 7’< 14’ and can support multiple items such as fishing gear, coolers, pets and kids. Paddleboarding gives the rider a different perspective on the water that no other paddle sport can offer. Paddleboarding the Gulf Of Mexico, natural springs, rivers, countless dune lakes and Florida State Parks, allows the rider to connect with nature and our beautiful environment. Riders may encounter pods of dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, manta-rays and much more. Sounds fun right! Join us and start paddle boarding today! For instructions on how to start paddle boarding (SUP) continue reading below.
Acquire a paddle board : You may either rent with us or buy a SUP at a local board shop. I prefer Yolo and BOTE for their durability and features.
Transporting your SUP: We will deliver your paddleboards to you, or you may use your own vehicle with our straps for your convenience.
Carrying your SUP to the beach, lake, spring, or river: Our Yolo boards are 10’ 6’’ & 11’6” they weight roughly 32lbs and have carry handles in the middle of the board. Stand on the side of the board and position the board on its side with the bottom of the board facing your body. You can now comfortably grab the carry handle and head to your launch point.
Launching your SUP: Start by launching your SUP in water that is deep enough to clear the fin, typically shin to knee deep. Mount the SUP and start by sitting on your knees in a upright position. Place your hands close to the blade on the paddle and start paddling for forward momentum. Note that the paddle blade should be facing away from the rider. After you have gained some momentum you can stand up on the SUP. The best way to go from sitting to standing on your SUP is whats called “popping up” which means you go from sitting on your knees to standing in a single motion on the board. Start by placing both hands on the board in front of your knees while holding the paddle then place the balls of your feet on the board. Stand just behind the carry handle shoulder width apart with knees slightly bent looking to the horizon. Hold the paddle with one hand on the end and the support hand in the middle. Continue paddling with the blade starting on the side of the front of the board and pulling the blade back to your ankles with the blade fully underwater. Continue this motion on both sides of the SUP.
Maintaining stability on your SUP: For the smoothest ride always face the nose of your board into the waves. If you get in front of a wave and you are parallel to it, it may flip the board.
Pack the essentials: Florida State Law requires riders to have a life jacket and whistle on your sup. The life jacket and whistle are included for our customers. Always bring plenty of water on your SUP adventure. We provide dry bags to bring your cell phone in case of an emergency and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Have FUN: Always have fun with your friends and family out on the water and be respectful of all sea creatures! Pick up litter when you see it and leave only footprints.
I hope this information has been helpful to someone who is new to paddleboarding, SUP, or someone who wants to become a better paddleboarder. There is no better place to learn how to Paddleboard, SUP than 30A, Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, and Panama City Beach Florida. We will include a complimentary lesson for new riders of all ages with parents consent. We will give our customers local maps of various waterways where they can make their own excursion. We will guide and show our local artificial snorkeling reefs and artificial fishing reefs right off of the coast of South Walton’s local beach accesses. Join us and start paddle boarding today! We are happy to show you the way. Get out and paddle ya’ll!
Adam
contact @ adamgh92@gmail.com