Do You Need Paddle Board Lessons To Enjoy SUPs?

 

Answer: No! SUP(stand-up paddle boarding) is completely beginner friendly. Any one of your friends or family can engage in this joyous activity. It’s easier than surfing, and allows people of almost all ages to have fun along the wondrous coasts of Hawaii! Read on to learn everything you need to know about SUPs!

You can even read more about some beginner tips for stand up paddleboarding!

What is a SUP?

SUP, an abbreviation for stand-up paddle boarding, is considered a surfing sport. As the name suggests, you typically stand on the paddle board and use the paddle like you would for a rowboat. Moving forward, backward, turning, or slowing down. 

If you don’t feel comfortable standing at first you can either sit or kneel, whatever feels right for you, then maybe you can graduate to standing. And remember you’ve got all day. We’re on island time! 

Did you know Hawaii was one of the first places to begin using SUPs? It began as early as the 1700s  when the natives began using paddle boards as a form of transportation to move between the islands. Eventually, SUP became popular as a recreational activity in the 1960s when all types of surfing grew rapidly more popular, and for good reasons! 

We also have a breakdown of the differences between Surfing and SUPing.

Why you should try stand up paddleboarding

Want to experience the pacific ocean in a new way? Then stand up paddle boarding is for you! Stand up paddle boarding has a vast amount of benefits. For example, it helps you work on your balance and makes for good competition with your family and friends! Who doesn’t love a friendly rivalry? 

It’s also a great way to exercise your core. You’ll be getting fit without even noticing because SUP is so much fun. That’s right, you’ll be having fun in the sun on vacation while working off that classic Hawaiian shaved ice! 

If you have dreams of hitting the world-class Hawaiian waves on a surfboard, then SUP is a great way to train. Because most people struggle with balance on a classic surfboard, you can easily work up those skills on the more forgiving paddleboards.

Even if you don’t want to try classic surfing, it’s a great way to explore and experience views you might not be able to see on shore. And sure, you could go swimming but if you’re like me, maybe you’re not the strongest swimmer and if you were to go swimming you’d be more focused on your doggy paddle than you would be on the sights. That’s why SUP is so great, it can be a workout or it can be relaxing by either taking breaks just to float or paddling while you sit.  

Why you should SUP on in Haleiwa

You should SUP in Haleiwa because it is located on the Northshore of Oahu, where it’s beautiful year-round everywhere you look. It is also home to the first surf shop on Oahu, Surf N’ Sea. Starting in 1965, it has remained a go-to for locals and visitors alike!

Another reason is, that you can paddleboard year round! Surf N’ Sea is located right on the beach and at the mouth of the Anahulu stream, so you can rent a board and practically take off right from there! We offer paddle boards in all different sizes, so you’ll be sure to find a board that’s right for you. 

During the summer the surf is calm enough to cruise around in the Pacific Ocean and spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and unique birds! As for the winter months, you can float along the Anahulu river where it’s calm enough to chill and catch some views of the historical Anahulu Bridge, AKA, the Rainbow Bridge nicknamed after its double arches.  

How do you know when are the best times to paddle in the ocean, up the river, or both?? Don’t worry, the Surf N’ Sea beach boys have got your back or your board I should say.

It’s true that you don’t need lessons to paddleboard but if you’re a little nervous, our knowledgeable, experienced, and trained crew is here, just in case you’re looking for some pointers!  

Come paddle boarding with us!

Plan your trip to Haleiwa today and experience paddle boarding where it all began! 

The Surf N’ Sea crew isn’t just there to rent out paddle boards, they are there for your safety and to answer any questions you may have!