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Top 10 Scenic Paddleboarding Destinations Around the World

by Katy Hesser 04 Mar 2025 0 Comments

Paddleboarding is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation—kind of like a floating yoga class, but with fewer downward dogs and more breathtaking scenery. If you’re on the hunt for your next dreamy paddleboarding getaway, look no further! Here are ten stunning spots where you can glide, float, and soak in the views (while hopefully staying upright).

1. Lake Tahoe, USA
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters are so pure you might feel guilty paddling on them. With snow-capped peaks and lush forests surrounding you, it’s like stepping into a postcard. Pro tip: Sunrise and sunset paddles are peak serenity—just watch out for that one rogue duck that insists on following you

2. Halong Bay, Vietnam
Emerald waters? Check. Towering limestone islands? Check. A UNESCO World Heritage site that makes you feel like you’ve paddled into a fantasy novel? Double check. Glide between karst formations, discover hidden caves, and maybe even have a monkey spectate your balancing skills.

Is Halong Bay in Vietnam Worth Visiting? A Guide to Bay Cruises

3. Queenstown, New Zealand
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps, Queenstown’s lakes and rivers are a dream for paddleboarders. Lake Wakatipu, in particular, looks like it was Photoshopped by Mother Nature herself. Just be prepared—the stunning scenery might make you forget to keep paddling.

4. Maui, Hawaii, USA
From tranquil bays to rolling waves, Maui offers paddleboarding experiences for every skill level. Head to Makena Beach for clear, warm waters and a chance to paddle alongside sea turtles—aka the ocean’s most chill residents.

An Overview of Maui: Best Places to See and Top 5 Things to Do

5. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
White sandy beaches, vibrant marine life, and waters so clear you can see your own reflection? Welcome to paddleboard paradise. Whitehaven Beach is the highlight here, with pure silica sand so soft it feels like walking on clouds—if clouds were made of tiny, perfect grains of sand.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora’s iconic overwater bungalows are cool and all, but paddleboarding over a vibrant blue lagoon? That’s next-level relaxation. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for a leisurely paddle—just be prepared to pause frequently to admire the tropical fish swimming beneath you.

Bora Bora Island Travel Guide and Bora Bora Deals | Tahiti.com

7. Banff National Park, Canada
If you’ve ever wanted to paddle on a lake so blue it looks like it came straight out of a paint can, Banff is your spot. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are as stunning as they come, surrounded by towering peaks and enough tranquility to make you forget what Wi-Fi even is.

8. Santorini, Greece
Paddleboarding past Santorini’s dramatic cliffs, whitewashed buildings, and volcanic coastline is like starring in your own Greek mythology. Explore hidden sea caves, float in the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, and try not to get distracted by the sheer beauty of it all.

Stand Up Paddle in Santorini 2025

9. Maldives
The Maldives is basically what dreams are made of. The calm, shallow lagoons are ideal for beginners, while the vibrant coral reefs offer plenty to see for more adventurous paddlers. Bonus: The overwater bungalows make for great post-paddle nap spots.

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Pristine beaches, warm turquoise waters, and a rich cultural backdrop make Zanzibar an unforgettable paddleboarding destination. Explore mangroves, drift past charming fishing villages, and soak in the island vibes—preferably with a fresh coconut in hand afterward.

Tips for Paddleboarding in Scenic Destinations

  • Check Local Conditions: Mother Nature can be unpredictable. A little research goes a long way in avoiding choppy waters or unexpected currents.

  • Safety First: Life jackets aren’t just for show! Also, always use a leash—your board should be your best friend, not an escape artist.

  • Respect the Environment: Keep these stunning destinations beautiful by following Leave No Trace principles. Nobody likes a litterbug.

  • Capture the Moment: Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to document your paddling prowess and prove you actually made it to these dream locations.

Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or just an excuse to float around in paradise, these top paddleboarding destinations deliver. So grab your board, embrace the wobbles, and get ready for a paddling experience you’ll never forget!

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