Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world, being a mixture of surfing and canoeing. It’s an activity which allows you to enjoy the beauty of your natural surroundings while improving your balance, fitness and, of course, technique at the same time.
The best part of all is that this adventure sport is suitable for all ages and abilities and can take place at any location including lakes, loughs and beaches across Northern Ireland.
We’ve put together a list of the top paddleboarding places in Northern Ireland to help you choose the best spot for your next adventure on the water.
Strangford Lough, Co. Down – for the beginner
Strangford Lough is one of the best places to paddleboard in Northern Ireland. Lessons are available on SUP, ensuring a safe and fun experience for everyone in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Experienced instructors can take you on a guided tour through remote islands and amazing scenery, making you feel at ease even if you’re new to the paddleboarding scene. Click here for more information or to book your own lesson!
Bangor – for the learner
If you’re interested in learning the techniques behind paddleboarding, then look no further than the Stand Up Paddleboarding School by SUP Hub NI. This mobile SUP School in Bangor caters to all ages and abilities and uses the wonderful surrounding coastal waters to teach visitors the art of paddleboarding. Click here for more information or to book your own lesson!
Castlewellan Lake – for the sightseer
If you’re perhaps intimidated at the prospect of SUP in the open ocean, then why not try it Castlewellan Lake? The water on this lake is peaceful and calm, making it the perfect spot to find your inner serenity while admiring the Mourne Mountains and taking in the grandeur of the surrounding Castlewellan Castle. Once you’ve completed your paddleboarding adventure, you can finish the day with a relaxing stroll amongst the surrounding beautiful gardens. Click here for more information or to book your own lesson!
Islandmagee – for the wildlife lover
At Islandmagee, you can explore the wonderful natural beauty of the coastline while experiencing the safety of being close to the shore. Portmuck Harbour and Browns Bay beach are both hidden gems in Islandmagee, offering fantastic scenery and a large variety of wildlife. Of particular interest, is the Isle of Muck, which is an Ulster Wildlife bird sanctuary, while Harbour porpoises, bottle-nose dolphins and seals can also be seen regularly off the coast of Portmuck. Click here for more information or to book your own lesson!
Portrush – for the holidaymaker
Thinking of taking a weekend trip to the beach and picking up a new hobby? Then you’ve found the perfect spot in Portrush! The shores of Portrush offer the ideal location to go SUP whilst enjoying the summer breeze on the ocean’s waves. Portrush also offers the opportunity to explore nearby caves surrounded by crystal clear waters, while still being within the safety of Portrush Harbour. If it’s an especially clear day, you can even catch a peek of Scotland and the Donegal hills. Click here for more information or to book your own lesson!
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – for the adventurer
This is one for the thrill seekers who want to explore the Causeway Coast from a unique perspective. Feel as if you’re out in the open ocean as you enjoy all the best sights the Causeway Coast has to offer. This adventure is for the more experienced paddleboarders, and if you’re a paddleboard professional, you’re more than ready to take this one on!
It’s clear that paddleboarding is one of the most unique and relaxing ways to explore many of the picturesque parts of Northern Ireland, allowing for an appreciation of the natural beauty of the coastline while simultaneously improving your fitness levels.
Please make sure to always check the weather and tide timings before heading out on your paddleboard and always let someone know where you are heading before your adventure.
For all your paddleboarding essentials and accessories, visit https://bespokeleisure.co.uk/ or if you have any queries about our products or services, contact us at info@janslifestyle.co.uk.
