Kaua‘i is the perfect place to learn what’s up – with Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) that is. Offering some of the same excitement as surfing when you catch a wave, SUP also provides peace and tranquility as you glide effortlessly across the water. Plus, it’s an excellent full-body and core workout, it can be learned in an afternoon, and it is great for ocean enthusiasts of all ages. Enjoy the best of SUP near our Kauai Vacation Rental in Poipu.

All About a Board

Similar to surfboards in construction, SUP boards are thicker and designed to float higher in the water. Ranging from 8-12 feet in length, riders stand atop the board which is designed to be easier to balance thanks to its width and thickness. Utilizing the sport’s iconic curved paddles, riders can easily navigate bays, lagoons, and river mouths. Hoku Water Sports in Kauai, one of the best SUP rental shops on the island, prides themselves on matching the rider to the right board size and shape, making it even easier for you to master this fun water sport. They offer daily and weekly SUP rentals at reasonable prices, as well as guided tours. Their helpful guides are also standing by to give you the inside tips on where to explore with your new board.

SUP Kaua‘i!

As Hawai‘i’s only navigable river, the Wailua is an ideal spot for SUP beginners. These calm waters wind among foothills and hidden waterfalls and grottoes along the riverbanks are just waiting to be explored. Easily accessed from eastern Kaua‘i, this is an ideal spot for your first SUP Adventure and a great place to spend the day.

On the North Shore, Anini Beach.  Boasting Hawai‘i’s largest coral reef, the inside lagoon at Anini Beach is a tranquil and calm 2-mile stretch of enclosed water perfect for standup. Atop your board, you’ll see colorful reef fish darting past you in the crystal-clear waters and green sea turtles lounging inside the reef as they take a break from foraging algae from the rocks and coral. Just down the road to the west are the peaceful waters of Hanalei Bay, another safe spot to learn SUP. Gentle waves break along the pier offering easy rides, and the bay’s calm waters are draped in stunning 4,000-foot high mountains and perfect for exploring. If the bay is too rough for your liking, the adjacent Hanalei River offers a scenic and peaceful mile-long stretch of prime paddling. You’ll sail past palm trees and lush green taro fields as you paddle through time with a glimpse of life in Old Kaua‘i.

While the winter waves on the North Shore can make for rough conditions at many beaches, there are still plenty of prime spots for SUP year-round. The South Shore is also a great area for SUP year-round. Check out the excellent boards from Hoku Water Sports or the other SUP vendors on the island.  Then, grab your paddle, collect your balance, and hit the water!

Stand Up Paddleboarding Tours – Outfitters Kauai Stand Up Paddleboard Rentals –Hoku Water Sports in Koloa, Kauai SUP in Kapaa.

Featured image credit: Hoku Watersports, Koloa Hawaii.