Paddle Boarding in Dorset is a popular water sports activity that has grown in popularity over the last few years. If you’re new to paddle boarding and want to give it a go, there are some calm and shallow waters around the county to test out your confidence and skills.
What is paddle boarding?
Paddle boarding is a sport where you either lie, kneel or stand on a board and propel yourself through the water.
Is paddle boarding safe for non-swimmers?
It’s always advisable to invest in the correct safety attire as you will no doubt fall into the water when you are paddle boarding. The sport is suited to swimmers.
Can you paddle board all year round?
Whilst you can paddle board all year round, it’s important to remember to wear the correct gear to protect yourself from the cold waters. Also take extra care of the water conditions in more inclement weather.
Paddle Boarding In Bournemouth
Mudeford Quay
Parking at: Mudeford Quay Car Park, Christchurch, BH23 4AB
Paddle from Mudeford to Iford and back again, past Christchurch Priory and Tuckton. If you’re making a day of it, you’ll also pass two pubs.
Southbourne Beach
Parking at: Roadside parking at the top of the zig zag walkway down to the beach.
When the weather is calm, the sea is an enjoyable experience for paddleboarding along the Bournemouth coastline.
Paddle Boarding In Lyme Regis
Charmouth
Parking at: DT6 6QX
A great place for beginners is on the river Char at Charmouth beach. When you progress to the sea, the 40 minute journey between Charmouth and Lyme Regis is a gentle stretch for SUP.
Paddle Boarding In Poole
Bramble Bush Bay
Parking at: Bramble Bush Bay, Purbeck, BH19 3BA
Bramble Bush Bay is quieter than across the road at Shell Bay. It’s a good paddle boarding spot to gain some confidence for beginners.
Paddle Board At Sandbanks
Parking at: Shore Road car park, or there is some road parking in off peak times.
Paddle boarding at Sandbanks is a great location for beginners. The water on the harbourside is quite sheltered and not very deep at all.
If you don’t have your own kit there are paddle boards for hire here as well. The perfect introduction to the sport.
Rockley Park
Parking at: Rockley Point, BH15 4RW
Rockley Park offers paddle boarding courses for beginners. It’s located in the largest inland saltwater lake in the UK. You can also turn up and hire paddle boards to have a go yourself. No booking is required.
Poole Park
Parking at: Free parking in Poole Park, Parkstone, Poole, BH15 2SF
Paddle boards are available for hire at Poole Park on an hourly basis if you wish to explore the still waters of the lake.
Paddle Boarding In Wareham
Kimmeridge Bay
Parking at: The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF (£6 charge via the toll hut)
The waters at Kimmeridge are easily accessed by the slipway. The bay itself is quite sheltered and calm making it a great place for paddle boarding.
Lulworth Cove
You can hire boards and equipment including wet suits from Lulworth Activities. Hire is available by the hour or per day. They are located at Rudds, a 1650’s boutique hotel just 20 metres from the beautiful Lulworth Cove beach.
Beginner paddle boarders are not permitted to do the 3.2 miles excursion to Durdle Door. They suggest 1 hour for a taster session inside the Cove. Alternatively, 2 hours if you want some time to venture to Stair Hole’s Caves.
Paddle Boarding In Wimborne
Eye Bridge
Parking at: Cowgrove Rd, Wimborne BH21 4EL
The section of the river Stour at Eye Bridge (turning right after launch) in Wimborne is wide and gentle in this stretch. The water is shallow in places as well making it the perfect place for paddle boarding for beginners.
Related Post – River walks in Dorset
Paddle Boarding In West Bay
River Brit
The river Brit is a great place to paddle board. Begin your adventure from the slip way next to West Bay River Boats and enjoy the amazing scenery and wildlife.
Paddle Boarding In Weymouth And Portland
Portland Harbour
With views across the Jurassic Coast, Portland Harbour is a is a great place to learn or practice SUP. It has some of the best conditions on the south coast of England and is accessible across tide times. Weymouth Watersports and Fitness Club offer group SUP lessons if you’re wishing to learn with the pros.
Weymouth Paddle Board And Kayak
This drop in rental centre at Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth has paddle boards and wetsuits for hire. Why not enjoy some time in the water in the paddling area at Bowleaze Cove.
Paddle Boarding In Dorset Resources
Why not experience some of the other outdoor adventure activities in Dorset, or perhaps where to go kayaking in Dorset.