Top 10 places to paddleboard in 2022
Now the Covid cuffs are coming off and we’re allowed to travel to most countries we thought it worthwhile to list our top 10 places to visit for paddleboarding. All are equally stunning, can cater for most abilities and offer a beautiful stay as much out of the water as on it. In no particular order…
1. Sunset Beach, Hawaii
Head to where it all began and enjoy a paddleboard at the legendary Sunset Beach. Perfect for both surfing and paddleboarding, and a good starting point for a 4 mile paddle to Waimea Bay just along the coast. Beginners would do best to head to friendlier waters in Puaena Point.
Tornado tip: Water conditions are best in the summer, unless you’re skilled enough to get stuck into the big wave surfing that happens during the winter months at Sunset Beach.
2. Norwegian Fjords, Norway
For a different (and slightly colder) paddle boarding experience Norway offers something very unique but absolutely spectacular. Where else in the world could you paddle through raw, unspoilt landscapes, a UNESCO world heritage site (Nærøyfjord) with a chance of seeing seals, dolphins and whales. Further north, the Lofoten islands offer beautiful fishing towns amongst the breathtaking mountains with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Tornado tip: Pack your wetsuit!
3. The Bahamas
Everything’s good in the Caribbean and paddleboarding is particularly good in the Bahamas. With over 2,000 miles of coastline on over 700 coral islands there’s plenty to see. Along with crystal clear water, pink sand beaches and stunning tropical landscapes you’ll be sure to see waters packed with tropical fish, dolphins, and maybe even pigs (that’s not a typo). New Providence and The Exuma Cays are great SUP locations.
Tornado tip: A great location any time of the year
4. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia is Europe’s country of water (and nourishing, healthy and clean water at that) with over 60 rivers, 300 artificial and natural lakes and 7,500 freshwater springs; so more than enough to paddle through. The country consists of perfectly pristine landscapes, mill-pond-like alpine lakes and slow flowing rivers. Lake Bled is a very instagram friendly, insanely stunning lake with a beautiful, small island in the middle.
Tornado tip: It’s worth checking out one of the thermal spas to soak away any paddling pains.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal is often called Europe’s paddleboarding capital and for very good reason. It has a great variety of water for all levels, all within easy reach of the capital. One of the most popular locations is Luiz Saldanha Marine Park which is around 30 miles South of Lisbon. It offers a once in a lifetime experience padding through turquoise waters containing 1,000 species of marine life, visibility of up to 20m and bottlenose dolphins as regulars.
Tornado tip: For something different, paddle board inside the Benagil sea cave on the Algarve coast.
6. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe in California is the most beautiful paddle boarding location in North America. The dreamy water, whilst a tad cold due to it’s depth and the snow run off, is absolutely crystal clear and the shoreline is lined with pine trees leading to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the background. Truly Stunning!
Tornado tip: The water is calmer in the morning and early evening so these are the best times if you’re a beginner.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
What better way to do a city tour than by paddling through it! Amsterdam offers this with over 60 miles of 400 year old canals to meander through. You’ll have access to a whopping 1,550 monuments, beautiful scenery, stunning architecture, plus Amsterdam’s rich culture.
Tornado tip: The guided tours are great way to see the sights and also ensure you don’t get lost.
8. Bay of islands, New Zealand
New Zealand is on most people’s bucket lists for obvious reasons; natural, wild landscapes, rocky mountains, golden beaches and rich culture with a laid back vibe. The Bay of Islands near the northern tip of the North Island is the ideal spot for Paddleboarding with all of the above plus a sub tropical climate, sheltered coves and bays with warm water all year and the chance of paddling with dolphins.
Tornado tip: Russell is one of the most popular destinations to stay.
9. Cape Town, South Africa
As well as safari’s, wine and beautiful scenery, South Africa is getting known as a great paddleboarding destination. With a variety of water for all levels, experienced boarders can wave ride at Big Bay or Muizenbery whilst beginners can enjoy the flat waters of the canals, rivers or waterfront
Tornado tip: If you’re a beginner, Langebaan Lagoon, located about an hour north of Cape is a great place to learn
10. Bali, Indonesia
With it’s beautiful weather, lush vegetation, picturesque temples, and amazing blue waters it’s no wonder Bali is known as the island of the gods. Paddleboarding here is perfect for every skill level due to the varying strength of the waves. Balian and Medewi beach in the north are perfect for a paddle boarding adventure.
Tornado tip: Bali is also a great destination for hiking, trekking and diving
About Tornado Lifejackets
Tornado Lifejackets are passionate about safety on the water and we want you to enjoy your activities with peace of mind. We therefore sell quality jackets that are affordable and accessible for adults and children. Our lifejackets are all from Europe's largest manufacturers complying to the highest standards for safety include ISO accreditation and CE approval. Our knowledgable team of experts are always on hand to answer any water safety questions you may have.