What’s SUP?

Paddle boarding is the newest water sport craze sweeping across the country. It’s roots are with the Beach Boys of Hawaii, who added the paddle to their longboards to photograph tourists surfing. It was then brought into the mainstream of surf culture by Waterman such as Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama, who used it for training when the surf was down. It wasn’t long before SUP became a division in many surf and paddle board events.

Why SUP?

The main difference between surfing and SUP is that no wave is needed. Ocean, bays, rivers & lakes are all fair game to the Stand Up Paddler. The fact that one is standing and has a higher angle of visibility, is an advantage when looking into the water or across to the horizon. The core workout potential is tremendous, and the fun factor is high, not to mention the “cool” factor, worthy of a “hang loose” or shaka hand sign.

The Equipment

The beauty of SUP is its’ simplicity, grab your board & paddle and go. The boards which are from 9 to 14 feet in length fall within 3 basic categories:
1) Surf-specific boards
2) Surf & flat-water (most popular)
3) Touring or Race

The paddles come in a variety of materials, shapes and configurations, but basically are designed either for surfing or cruising. Other gear to consider are leashes, storage bags, car racks, and dry or wetsuits. According to Coast Guard regulation, a PFD and whistle are required when outside surf and swim areas. Products to protect your boards’ rail and paddle are available as well as accessories to outfit your board to carry gear.

SUP Rental Rates

Includes board, paddle, leash, PFD & wetsuit

SUP Lessons

SUP 101 (open water)

Let’s get out on the water and learn the basics. Getting on and off the board, balance, using the paddle and handling wind and wave are all covered in this class. Includes use of wetsuit, and all necessary equipment.

90 minutes / $45. – Reservation Required

SUP Events

Check our “Events” page for upcoming Stand Up Paddle Board demos and races.

SUP Store

Our Port Townsend store carries a full line of SUP and accessories by Surftech and Werner paddles.