Paddle Boarding with a View: Best Scenic Spots
Paddle boarding is a fantastic way to explore natural beauty while getting a bit of exercise. Its popularity has soared in recent years. With a growing number of enthusiasts eager to find the best spots, it’s time to explore some breathtaking locations that offer amazing views.
Lake Tahoe, USA
Lake Tahoe sits in the Sierra Nevada mountains, straddling California and Nevada. This freshwater lake is renowned for its clear, blue waters and surrounding mountain scenery. South Lake Tahoe is especially popular among paddle boarders. Emerald Bay State Park offers a particularly stunning view of landscapes and historic landmarks like the Vikingsholm Castle. The natural beauty here is unparalleled.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its rugged coastline, dotted with small beaches and pastel-colored fishing villages. Paddle boarding here offers an intimate view of stunning cliffs, terraced vineyards, and the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano and Praiano are popular starting points. The tranquility of the sea combined with the dramatic coastline makes for an unforgettable paddle boarding experience.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay is one of the most visited places in Vietnam. Known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests, it provides a unique paddle boarding experience. Exploring the bay on a paddle board allows you to navigate through lesser-known caves and grottoes. Floating fishing villages add to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Wakatipu Lake, New Zealand
Wakatipu Lake, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is a natural wonder. Surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, the “S” shaped lake offers stunning panoramas. Paddle boarding here can coincide with hikes on nearby trails, combining water and land exploration. Queenstown, nearby, provides easy access to this serene aquatic environment.
Bled Lake, Slovenia
Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most iconic sights. Paddle boarding on this glacial lake means you can float around its famous island church and medieval Bled Castle perched on a cliff. The Julian Alps surrounding the lake add to its serene beauty. Early mornings or evenings offer the best light and fewer crowds, enhancing the magical experience.
Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
The Na Pali Coast on Kauai’s north shore is a geographical marvel with its towering sea cliffs and narrow valleys. Paddle boarding along the coast offers a unique vantage point to see sea caves, waterfalls, and lush green cliffs. Hanalei Bay is a great starting point for paddle boarders. The beauty of the Na Pali Coast is best appreciated from the water.
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area. It’s part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Paddle boarding here offers the opportunity to see a range of landscapes from rolling hills to tall mountains. The loch contains many islands, each with its own character and wildlife. It’s a serene and scenic paddle boarding destination.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland. They are part of the Great Barrier Reef and famous for their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Paddle boarding around Whitsunday Island, particularly at Whitehaven Beach, provides unparalleled views of the Coral Sea. The underwater scenery is as captivating as the above-water vistas.
Clayoquot Sound, Canada
Clayoquot Sound is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. This pristine wilderness area offers stunning views of old-growth forests, coastal mountains, and abundant marine life. Paddle boarding here allows for close encounters with seals, sea otters, and even humpback whales. Tofino serves as the main gateway to this remarkable place.
Monterey Bay, USA
Monterey Bay in California is a marine sanctuary known for its diverse ecosystem. Paddle boarding here provides a front-row seat to witnessing sea otters, dolphins, and even whales in their natural habitat. The coastline is dotted with kelp forests and rocky outcrops. Launch from Monterey or Santa Cruz for the best experience.
Queenstown Bay, New Zealand
Queenstown Bay is another exquisite spot in New Zealand for paddle boards. Nestled against the spectacular backdrop of the Southern Alps, this area provides views of pristine waters and snow-capped peaks. Queenstown is also a hub for various adventure sports, making it a versatile destination for outdoors enthusiasts.
Esperance, Australia
Esperance, situated in Western Australia, is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant blue waters. Paddle boarding off these beaches offers panoramic views of the Recherche Archipelago. Lucky Bay is a highlight, where the sand is fine and white, contrasting vividly with the turquoise water. Wildlife such as kangaroos occasionally frequent the beaches, adding a unique touch.
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
The Stockholm Archipelago consists of around 30,000 islands and islets. Paddle boarding here offers a serene way to explore the waterways, lush islands, and charming coastal villages. Gustavsberg and Sandhamn are popular starting points. Each island has its own character, from rocky outcrops to dense forests, providing endless exploration opportunities.
Lake Powell, USA
Lake Powell, straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, is known for its striking red rock formations and clear water. Paddle boarding here gives you access to hidden coves, slot canyons, and secluded beaches. It’s part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The natural rock formations make for an extraordinarily scenic experience.
Majorca, Spain
Majorca, the largest island in the Balearic Islands, Spain, offers diverse paddle boarding experiences. The northwest coast features dramatic cliffs, while the south has beautiful beaches and clear waters. Explore the coastline from Cala d’Or to see pristine coves and calm bays. The Mediterranean waters are generally calm, making it suitable for all skill levels.
“`