Stand Up Paddleboarding or SUP is really popular in St Ives. It gives you a unique opportunity to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the beauty of St Ives' coastline. Whether you're gliding across glassy waters at sunrise or catching waves in the afternoon sun, the sense of freedom and serenity that accompanies paddleboarding is truly unparalleled. It isn't unusual to see people out there on SUPs with dogs, drinking beer and doing yoga!
Stand Up Paddleboarding Hotspots In St Ives
St Ives Harbour:
The harbour at high tide is a great place to SUP. On a calm day at high tide it is simply glorious to wend your way around the harbour and boats.
Porthminster Beach:
Porthminster Beach is usually one of the calmest, flattest places to SUP. You do need a little more skill in getting out as it does have surf. You can paddleboard up and down the bay and into the harbour from here.
Carbis Bay:
Carbis Bay Beach is a super calm beach to stand up paddleboard from. It can be a pain to get to with your gear (parking is mega pricey or means a journey down a steep hill) but once you are on there it is lovely.
Keep an eye out for playful seals, dolphins and seabirds.
Stand Up Paddleboarding Gear
You will need a board (plus pump if it is one you have to inflate) a paddle and a life jacket. I personally like to wear a wetsuit too as it is bleddy cold in the sea when you fall in. Lots of people don't wear wetsuits though, it is down to your personal preference.
You can hire equipment from the St Ives Surf School. St Ives boats in the harbour and Ocean Sports on Carbis Bay Beach.
SUP Tips for Beginners
If you're new to stand-up paddleboarding, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Find Your Balance:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your knees slightly bent to maintain stability on the board. Start in calm, shallow waters until you feel comfortable standing up and paddling.
Master the Paddle Stroke:
Use a long, smooth stroke to propel yourself forward, keeping the paddle close to the side of the board and using your core muscles to generate power. Experiment with different paddle angles and grips to find what works best for you.
Embrace the Falls:
Don't be discouraged if you take a tumble into the water – it's all part of the learning process! Practice falling safely away from your board and learn how to remount quickly and efficiently.
Respect the Environment:
Always practice responsible paddling etiquette and respect the natural environment. Avoid disturbing wildlife, stay clear of sensitive habitats such as seagrass beds and rocky reefs, and leave no trace behind.
Be Safe:
Always wear a life jacket and take a mobile phone in a waterproof case. Tell someone that you are going out SUPing, where you think you will be going and approximately what time you expect to be back.
Know the tides, be aware of currents and monitor weather conditons.