Top 5 Places to Stand Up Paddleboard Around The Lower Mainland
Being surrounded by oceans, lakes and beaches, Vancouver has no shortage of incredible stand up paddleboarding (otherwise known as SUP) locations. Whether you prefer city skyscrapers, mountains or trees, there’s a spot for you. Looking to plan your next SUP adventure? Our team at Vancouver Extended Stay has compiled a list of the top 5 SUP destinations in the lower mainland, so you can spend less time googling, and more time paddling.
Rocky Point
Located at the Eastern tip of the Burrard inlet, it’s no wonder Rocky Point made our list. Whether you’ve never set foot on a SUP or you’re a pro, the tranquil waters of the Burrard inlet make for a smooth ride. Be prepared to see harbour seals swimming right alongside you, and don’t forget to end your day by grabbing an ice cream from Rocky Point Ice Cream. Go ahead, and get the double scoop. You deserve it.
If you need a rental, Rocky Point Kayak has rentals right by the pier.
Granville Island
Coined as one of the quirkiest spots around town, Granville Island is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing SUP ride. From Granville Island you can make your way out towards False Creek and SUP alongside Vancouver’s skyline. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can paddleboard out towards English Bay and Kits Beach. If you don’t have your own board, you can rent one from Vancouver Water Adventures.
Tip: If you brought your four-legged friend with you to Vancouver Extended Stay, you don’t have to leave them at home while paddleboarding this spot! Vancouver Water Adventures actually allows dogs on their rentals, so you can head out and explore together.
Sasamat Lake
One of the lower mainland’s hidden gems, White Pine Beach on Sasamat Lake is the perfect lake for a paddleboarding session. With soft sandy beaches and warm water, it’s no wonder this beach is packed on a hot summer’s day. You can paddleboard the loop of the lake, take a pit stop at the floating bridge for a photo, and finish at the famous Rock for a plunge to cool yourself off. Keep in mind that there aren’t any rentals available at White Pine, so you will have to bring your own paddleboard.
Deep Cove
Located at the mouth of the Indian arm, Deep Cove has no shortage of incredible views. If you’re looking for a full day adventure, pack a picnic in your backpack and paddle up the Indian arm towards Twin Islands. Looking for more? Finish off the day with some cliff jumping! Just leave yourself enough time (and energy) to get back to shore as it’s about an hour and 45 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Tip: Rentals are available at Deep Cove Kayak, and for beginners they also have great lesson packages.
Kits Beach
As one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver, Kits Beach perfectly rounds out our SUP destination list. With rentals available right on the shore, it’s easy to go from sunbathing to paddleboarding in no time. We recommend aiming for sundown, so you can paddle out to the waters for the best seat in the house as the sun sets.
Which paddleboarding location are you going to pick this weekend? Let us know if we missed your favourite spot in the comments below, or by tagging us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter!