Stand-up paddleboarding in Hampshire

One of the fastest growing watersports, the popularity of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has surged in recent years and it’s easy to see why – it’s a super fun and accessible watersport that the whole family can enjoy.

One of the best places to experience stand-up paddleboarding – whether you want to take to the ocean or prefer exploring along a river or canal, there are a variety of routes and trails to follow here in Hampshire! 

Where can I paddleboard in Hampshire? 

The Hampshire coastline has plenty of harbours and marinas that provide the ideal locations for watersports, especially paddleboarding. From canals and rivers to bays and beaches, there are plenty of paddleboarding spots dotted around the county for you to choose from. 

Be sure to know you limits and check the conditions and tide times before you go. We recommend going along with a trained professional or if you would like to know more, check the safety guidelines and FAQ’s on the RNLI website here.  

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in Langstone Harbour, Portsmouth 

The sheltered waters of Langstone Harbour offers one of the best spots for beginners as it nestles between Portsmouth Harbour and Chichester Harbour. The harbour is also internationally recognised for its importance for nature conservation and is a haven for aquatic wildlife and bird species! Just be sure to check the tide times so that you don’t get stuck in the low-tide mud!

Find out more about Langstone Harbour here

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Calshot 

If you want a true experience of SUP boarding on the Hampshire coast, Calshot is one of the best places to do it. Soak up the rays and explore the spectacular Calshot lagoon at your own pace. Just off the corner of the New Forest the beach and activity centre is well set up for watersports for all ages and capabilities to enjoy.  

Find out more about Calshot Activity Centre here

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Basingstoke Canal 

The Basingstoke Canal starts in Greywell and runs for 32 miles to West Byfleet in Hampshire. The canal offers the perfect route for paddlers, especially beginners, as it is on a flat stretch of water. It offers the perfect conditions for all the family to enjoy a spot of paddle boarding, with plenty of wildlife to spot and World War II history along the way!  You’ll need to get a paddleboard licence (£5 for the day) to explore the canal.

Find out more about the Basingstoke Canal here

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the River Hamble  

The River Hamble is internationally knowns for it’s sailing and with its annual regatta, is one of the country's leading yachting centres and many kinds of leisure craft and sailing facilities can be found here. SUP boarding along the River Hamble is a must for all keen paddlers, the water is calm and sheltered and a great route to explore.  

The river is an important site for nature conservation and is a birdwatchers' paradise that runs through the picturesque villages of Bishop's Waltham, Botley and not forgetting the village of Hamble where the river enters the Southampton Water. Bishop's Waltham is a delightful village with traditional and specialist shopping and excellent pub lunches – a great place to stop for some well-deserved food!  

Find out more about the River Hamble here

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Stokes Bay 

SUP boarding in Stokes Bay offers the perfect spot for paddlers who want to take to the sea. The Solent is renowned for its watersports and paddleboarding along the Solent is one of the top things to do in Hampshire. Stokes Bay is a shingle beach located near Portsmouth and offers its paddlers some incredible views of The Solent and the Isle of Wight.  

Find out more about Gosport here

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Beaulieu River

Beaulieu is a beautiful river to explore from the water, it’s privately owned so the only place you can launch is Bucklers Hard, which needs to be pre-booked and paid for, but the 6-mile round trip up the river to Beaulieu is beautiful.

Find out more about Beaulieu here

Watersports in Hampshire  

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, take a look at the kitesurfing, windsurfing and wakeboarding in Hampshire!  

Find out more about watersports in Hampshire here