Looking for a Spot to Paddleboard? Check These Destinations Out

Once you get bit by the paddleboard bug, it’s hard not to plan your weekends and vacations around the activity. It’s a fantastic workout that is somehow also peaceful, and it allows you to spend more time in the great outdoors, enjoying the natural ebb and flow of water. As if those benefits alone weren’t enough to paddleboard frequently, studies have shown that being near water has a profound impact on our mental health and immune systems. Of course, once you’re interested in paddleboarding, you want to do it everywhere, and quickly, you start exploring. The following will offer up a few more suggestions for places you might like to paddleboard.

A Note About Skill Level

Paddleboarding is a demanding activity; you already know this. Before you race out to a new location and get lost in the scenery, it’s a good idea to do a little further research on any difficulties you might encounter in a given climate, including the tide and other elements that add to the challenge of paddleboarding. Always listen to your body and don’t push yourself beyond your limits, as this can result in you being stranded somewhere you’d rather not be stranded. Water sports aficionados at www.watersportswhiz.com recommend that you stay up to date on advice and techniques. Don’t forget to practice in easier locals before setting out on an eight-hour adventure.

For A Tropical Paradise, Try Hawaii

It’s almost unfair to talk about paddleboarding without talking about one of the most idyllic locations on earth. Hawaii is a spectacular place to be for any activity, but given the gorgeous views, friendly culture, and stunning shorelines, it makes for spectacular paddleboarding. Be aware that some sunscreen ingredients have been banned in Hawaii due to the harm that they cause aquatic ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. If you’re planning a trip, make sure that you find a sunscreen that makes the cut.

For A Wild And Free Feeling, Try Lake Powell

Lake Powell is nestled on the border of Utah and Arizona, right next to the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. The lake is actually a reservoir that was man-made and is surrounded by rugged red canyons. With a hint of wild west vibes, the locale feels entirely unique, as so much of the terrain in the Utah and Arizona regions do. You’re definitely going to want to take some photographs.

For Mountain Views, Visit Great Salt Lake

The second location in Utah to make this list, Great Salt Lake, is pretty easy to get to as it’s just outside Salt Lake City. It’s the largest saltwater lake in the entire western hemisphere and can boast those stellar mountain views that make Utah such a beautiful place to visit. Nature lovers from all walks of life find peace and solace in the wilderness of Utah, and the local populations are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Be aware that in some places in Utah, for religious reasons, it is hard to get your hands on a cup of coffee. If you’re someone that needs coffee to function, you might want to come prepared with your own.

For A Winter Wonderland, Try Glacier Bay

Located in Alaska, this bay is sometimes also called Bear Glacier Lagoon. The sights are breathtaking, but you will need to prepare properly for this one. Cold weather gear is absolutely critical, as is paddleboarding skill. You don’t want to be falling into the frigid water. You’ll also need to plan for the trip in advance, as you have to take a helicopter or jet boat to get to the location. If you do decide to seek out this jaw-dropping vista, you might see wild bears, humpback whales, and harbor seals. There are businesses in the area that can provide you with the gear you need to paddleboard without freezing.

For Cozy Cottage Vibes, Try Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is probably more well known for its skiing in the wintertime, but during the scorching California summer, paddleboarding in Lake Tahoe is a dream come true. It’s worth noting that Lake Tahoe is absolutely massive; there’s no way you’re going to be able to visit it all, so you might want to plan your route in advance. Some of the more popular locations on the lake include Zephyr Cove, Kings Beach, and Brockway hot Springs. 

For A Southern Adventure, Try Caddo Lake

If you want a wholly different vibe, why not seek out Caddo Lake. The locals call this lush swampy lake Caddo Bayou or Uncertain Swamp. It has an eerie yet serene vibe that leaves you feeling like you’re in another world. The terrain is maze-like and filled with all sorts of animals, including birds, turtles, frogs, snakes, beavers, raccoons, and even alligators. 

For More Moutains, Try Grant Teton

Located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, this lake is the epitome of majestic. You might see bears, coyotes, pronghorns, bald eagles, and moose. Of course, there will also be mountains. This area has an untouched feeling to it that can leave you blissfully unaware of the outside world as you coast around sparkling bends and feel in awe of the scope of nature.

Weather Concerns

While all these locations make for excellent paddleboarding on a good day, bad weather can make paddleboarding dangerous. Always read up on what the local weather is expected to be when planning, and be ready to postpone your morning or afternoon if it’s beginning to look like there’s poor visibility.

Communication Concerns

While paddleboarding can be done in a group, many people prefer to go out on the water alone. Part of the draw is the solitude, the connection between you and the water, the grand emptiness and silence. No matter whether you’re going out with a group or alone, you need to inform someone of where you’re going and how long you’ll be. Accidents can happen, and it’s always best to have someone primed to notice you’re missing if you haven’t returned. People who are searched for immediately have a much better chance of a positive outcome should something unfortunate happen while they’re out paddleboarding.

The above list is only the beginning. The world is filled with gorgeous bodies of water and beautiful landscapes. If paddleboarding is a passion of yours, you might find yourself traveling far and wide, enjoying all that nature has to offer.