Stand Up Paddleboarding in Dorset is incredibly popular and it's easy to see why! Whether you are looking to experience a beautiful, calming paddle down a local Dorset river or paddleboarding along the Dorset coast with breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, there are many fantastic paddleboarding locations for all abilities and weather. The Jurassic Coastline is filled with numerous beautiful and popular beaches and many have outlets offering paddleboards and lifejackets to hire.
If you're a beginner, we recommend that you have a paddleboarding lesson with an instructor before you paddle by yourself, as you will learn all about the equipment, techniques and essential safety information.
No matter your experience level, always remember to check the water conditions, tides and weather beforehand, and be prepared as conditions can change quickly. Wear appropriate clothing and buoyancy aids and carry a waterproof radio or phone to contact the emergency services if you need to. Most importantly, respect the water.
The RNLI has some expert tips on paddleboarding safely and if you have your own board, you can watch a short YouTube video showing how to attach your leash to the board correctly.
Here is a selection of some of the best locations in Dorset, with lessons for beginners and tours for more advanced paddlers.
Paddleboarding at Studland Bay and Old Harry Rocks
Studland Bay is a beautiful, secluded setting to try Stand Up Paddleboarding. Explore the wildlife and sea life of the bay with the stunning backdrop of Old Harry Rocks and the Jurassic Coast.
Fore Adventure at Studland's Middle Beach has two hour lessons for beginners at £45 per person (minimum age 12+). Learn how to control the board, various paddle strokes and how-to self-rescue. There is also a half-day tour over to Old Harry Rocks for intermediate-level paddlers, a perfect way to spend the afternoon in this beautiful setting.
Lessons include tuition and equipment.
Inland lake
At Cumulus Outdoor Adventure's private lake, you can try paddleboarding, play fun team games and even jump on a Monster SUP!
This is a great activities for families and small groups, with a minimum group size of 6 people. The sheltered lake is the perfect place for beginners to learn how to paddle and stand up on the board, as the water is flat, calm and safe.
It is suitable for children 8 years and older, and this half day course costs £45 per person. A wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet are provided.
Paddleboarding in Portland Harbour
Join Breakwater Coaching for a Stand Up Paddleboarding journey or coaching lesson. Enjoy an unforgettable Stand Up Paddle Board Journey, offered to first timers up to more experienced. See historic sites and learn about the history of the area as well as spotting wildlife not viewable elsewhere. Your guide will get you as close as possible for the perfect photo opportunity! Allow 3.5 for the half day journey but a full day can also be arranged. The half day journey costs £49 per person. Stand Up Paddle Board coaching is also available.
Glide into the calm waters near Portland Marina before exploring the Jurassic Coast with Sea Kayak Dorset. Your instructor will teach you all you need to know and help you to feel confident and relaxed on the water as you paddle past Portland Castle out into the harbour. You can choose to wear shorts and t-shirt or a variety of wetsuit options. The sessions lasts 3.5 hours and are suitable for 5 years plus. Children cost £39 and adults are £50 per person.
The Andrew Simpson Centre also offer paddleboarding taster sessions from Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Centre based in Portland Harbour.
Paddleboarding at River Frome, Wareham
River paddling offers an entirely different experience from being on the open water and with this location being so sheltered, it's perfect for all abilities.
Take in the surrounding nature and wildlife and let the world float by as you explore the River Frome at the quaint market town of Wareham.
Wareham Boat Hire Ltd offers 1-2-1 SUP tuition from Abbots Quay. They also hire out Stand Up Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, row boats and electric boats too.
Enjoy your paddleboarding experience in Dorset and make sure you tag us in any social posts #visitdorset
