Adventure is waiting on a paddleboard! Feel the magic of the ocean as you explore the coastline of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham in a relaxing and gentle way, breathing in the fresh sea air. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Torbay's crystal-clear waters, soak up the glorious views, and experience the unique sensation of gliding across the sea.

With over 22 miles of amazing coastline and some of the best weather in the UK, the English Riviera is a great place to get out and enjoy the water.

The shelter provided by towering Dartmoor to the northwest and the natural horseshoe shaped coastline provides Tor Bay with a calm, shallow sea and a warm microclimate which is perfect for those new to paddleboarding and those who are more experienced.

So, head down to the beach, dip your toes in the sea and enjoy Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). A tranquil paddle through the sea – either standing, kneeling or sitting on the paddleboard and gentle gliding through the waves.

And don’t forget that well-earned ice cream as a little reward when you hit dry land!

Why Choose Paddleboarding on the English Riviera?

1. Unforgettable Scenery: Prepare to be awestruck by the natural beauty of the Bay. Paddleboarding allows you to see the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden coves from a whole new perspective. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the English Riviera as you paddle through calm waters.

2. Suitable for All Levels: Whether you're a seasoned paddleboarder or a complete beginner, the English Riviera offers ideal conditions for everyone. Take your first steps on a paddleboard while enjoying the calm and sheltered bays, or challenge yourself with more advanced routes along the stunning coastline.

3. Fantastic Wildlife Encounters: As you explore the Bay's waters, keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife encounters. Dolphins, seals, and a variety of sea birds are often spotted during paddleboarding adventures, making your experience even more special. Don't forget your camera to capture these magical moments!

Paddleboarding in Torquay

A great place for paddleboarding is Abbey Sands in Torquay. This sandy, flat beach is protected by Princess Pier and a Corbyn Head, making it particularly safe for watersports.

Paddleboarding in Paignton

In Paignton, you're spoilt for choice for long sandy beaches, but probably the best place for paddleboarding is Goodrington Sands, again due to its protection of headlands on each side of the beach offering a safe place for SUP.

A bonus of paddleboarding on Goodrington Sands is that Reach Outdoors offer lessons, meet ups and board hire. No experience is necessary, as the qualified coaches will guide you from kneeling to standing up in no time and you will soon be exploring and having fun.

See the interactive map below for more info on paddleboarding spots on the English Riviera.

Safe Paddleboard Locations in the Bay

Due to its natural horseshoe curve, the inside of the Bay is very safe for watersports. However, both ends of the Bay (Berry Head in Brixham, and Hope's Nose/Thatcher Point in Torquay) are prone to currents. It is not safe to paddle in these areas.

Safety Tips for Paddleboarding on the English Riviera

• Always wear a proper-fitting personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket.

• Check the weather and sea conditions before heading out.

• Be aware of the tides and currents in the area.

• Stay hydrated and carry a means of communication, such as a waterproof phone case.

• Respect wildlife and marine habitats, keeping a safe distance from any animals encountered.

Places to Stay with SUP friendly facilities

There is a wide range of accommodation choices across the English Riviera from large resorts and hotels to smaller, independently owned and run accommodation, providing a more individual service and a warm welcome. These include B&Bs and Guesthouses, small hotels and self-catering accommodation.

We've pulled together a handy guide that lists some accommodation that have identified themselves as being ‘SUP friendly’. This means that they can offer facilities for those travelling with SUP equipment as well as being able to help with information about local places to explore and weather and tide conditions. Discover the English Riviera's SUP friendly accommodation here.

Torquay’s SUP World Record Holder

Why not follow in the footsteps of a world record holder? Torquay-based Brendon Prince has broken nine world records - including the first person to circumnavigate mainland Britain on a Stand-Up Paddle Board, the record for the fastest paddle from Lands’ End to John O’Groats, and the World’s longest Stand-Up Paddleboard journey.

The aim of The Long Paddle was to raise £250,000 to help support a charity raising awareness for water safety, men’s health and our marine environment.