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.
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.
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.
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.
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, with SUP hire from £12.50 for 30 minutes.
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.
Portland Harbour
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.
