Whether you are looking to experience a beautiful, calming paddle down a local river or riding some waves on the beach, Dorset has many fantastic paddleboarding locations for all abilities and weather.

Man paddleboarding at Christchurch photo credit Steve Hogan

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.

Remember to check the water conditions, tides and weather beforehand, and be prepared as conditions can change quickly. Most importantly, respect the water. The RNLI has some expert tips on being paddleboarding safely.

Here is a selection of some of the best locations in Dorset, with lessons for beginners and tours for more advanced paddlers.

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.

Man stand up paddleboarding at Old Harry Rocks with Fore Adventure

Photo courtesy of Fore Adventure

Fore Adventure at Studland's Middle Beach has two hour lessons for beginners at £40 per person - 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.

Portland Harbour

Portland Marina is a well-sheltered part of Portland’s historic harbour. The marina is fantastic for new starters and those who want to have a relaxing paddle. You might even get to spot Portland's local friendly dolphin.

Group of people paddleboarding with Adventure 4 All at Portland Marina, Dorset

Photo courtesy of Adventure 4 All

Whether you are a complete beginner or want to master your paddling skills, Adventure 4 All offer various lessons. Learn the skills to be a self-sufficient paddler as a beginner or advance skills like downwinding (SUP surfing).

Wetsuits, buoyancy aids and board are all provided with prices starting at £26 for a 1 hour taster session. Customised tours are also available.

River Frome at 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.

Man stand up paddleboarding on the River Frome at Wareham in Dorset with Wareham Boat Hire Ltd

Photo courtesy of Wareham Boat Hire Ltd

Wareham Boat Hire Ltd offers 1-2-1 SUP tuition from Abbots Quay for £35 an hour. They also hire out SUP's, kayaks, canoes, row boats and electric boats too.

Sandbanks and Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour and Sandbanks is a great location for paddleboarding newbies and those who want to practice. The harbour has easy access and is shallow, making it ideal for beginners.

Woman stand up paddleboarding at Sandbanks in Poole, Dorset

The Watersports Academy has lessons starting from £25 per hour and includes tuition and equipment. You can choose a 1 hour lesson or a two hour tour - ideal for those wanting to explore a little further and a fantastic way to see Poole Harbour.

Lyme Regis

Experience the beautiful bay of Lyme Regis by SUP and see the stunning Jurassic Coast cliffs and Cobb harbour. Lyme Bay is safe to paddle, easy to launch and great for beginners.

Four people stand up paddleboarding in Swanage Bay

© Arran Witheford and Brady Gee

Located on the seafront at Lyme Regis, Boylos offer lessons for all levels starting at £30 for a 1 hour lesson.

All classes are tailored to suit each person, so they have the best SUP experience. Instructors will show you how to control the board, tips and you can even try some paddleboard yoga! Both group and private lessons are available.