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Scenic and adventurous with a welcoming community, Vancouver is one of the best places to paddle board in Canada. This is a city surrounded by nature, bringing urban life and the great outdoors together. It is no secret why Vancouver is one of the world’s most liveable cities!
Vancouver sits on top of the water, framed by mountains and alpine forests. As you can imagine, there is ample opportunity to hit the waterways with a stand up paddle board. Unlike other areas of Canada, Vancouver actually has a fairly mild climate. This means your playground is open year-round.
Here is your guide to exploring Vancouver by paddle board. There is something for everyone in this beautiful city. From calm waters perfect for learning to challenging adventures for the brave paddlers amongst us, discover your Vancouver.
Table of Contents
English Bay is a picturesque bay located on the southern shore of downtown Vancouver, surrounded by stunning views of the city skyline, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. It is a super popular spot for gentle and touring paddle boarding. From your board, you get stunning views of the city skyline and the North Shore Mountains.
During summer days, the beach is bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the sun, sand, and water. The calm waters provide an ideal environment for learning how to paddle board. There are places to rent gear from or even take a lesson to start you off on the right track!
Jericho Beach is known for its sandy shores and calm waters, making it perfect for leisurely flatwater paddle boarding. You can enjoy a peaceful paddle along the shoreline, taking in the scenic views of the beach, the surrounding mountains, and the cityscape.
The relatively flat conditions are perfect for beginners learning the sport and yogi’s wanting to take their practice to the water. Yoga paddle boarding combines traditional yoga poses with the balance and core-strengthening aspects of traditional paddle boarding. Why not join a guided SUP yoga class and practice your poses? Or bring your own board down to the water to give it a go and enjoy a serene and unique experience on the water.
Hitting the water at False Creek is a great way to see the city. This picturesque inlet runs through the heart of Vancouver, giving you the chance to go urban paddling under bridges and past parks. As you navigate the calm waters of False Creek, you will be surrounded by the city's iconic skyline and picturesque views of mountains in the distance. There will be a sense of tranquility and adventure.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddle boarder, False Creek offers a range of options, from leisurely paddles to challenging workouts. Explore the vibrant shores lined with parks, marinas, and floating homes, or venture further to discover hidden coves and quiet corners. With its blend of natural beauty and urban charm, False Creek is a memorable paddle boarding spot to connect with nature while immerse deeply into the vibrant energy of Vancouver.
Located in North Vancouver, Deep Cove is a serene and picturesque destination for paddle boarding. The calm waters are a serene oasis nestled at the heart of Vancouver's North Shore. Known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain vistas, Deep Cove offers paddle boarders a captivating playground to explore.
Glide along entirely surrounded by lush forests and towering cliffs, as you soak in the tranquility of this natural wonderland. With its tranquil coves and hidden beaches, Deep Cove is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you are embarking on a peaceful paddle or seeking an adrenaline rush by tackling the challenging currents, Deep Cove provides an unforgettable paddle boarding experience that showcases the beauty and splendor of the Pacific Northwest.
Located in Port Moody, BC, the Belcarra Regional Park offers a picturesque setting with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling waters of the Indian Arm. Here you will find easy access to the water, making it convenient for launching your paddle board.
The calm and protected waters of Indian Arm are ideal for paddle boarding of all levels. You can leisurely explore the peaceful shoreline, discover hidden coves, and even paddle out to the nearby islands for a more adventurous experience. Belcarra Regional Park also has a wide range of amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and a sandy beach, allowing you to make the most of your day.
Kitsilano Beach is a great place for beginner paddle boarders. This relatively calm and sheltered area in English Bay is perfect to practice and gain confidence on the water. The bay is protected which provides a stable and predictable environment. There are also several rental shops and paddle boarding schools nearby. You can easily rent paddle boards or join a lesson to teach you the basics of paddle boarding.
Additionally, Kitsilano Beach's scenic surroundings and pleasant atmosphere make it an enjoyable location for beginners to learn and explore. You can paddle along the shoreline, taking in the beautiful views of the city, the nearby mountains, and the picturesque beaches.
Deer Lake is just on the outskirts of the city in the Burnaby district. This calm lake is surrounded by a park with plenty of walking trails and picnic areas, providing a pleasant and serene environment for paddling. The friendly paddle boarding community and vibe here is what make this one of the best places to paddle in Vancouver.
Deer Lake attracts a friendly and welcoming paddle boarding community. You may find other enthusiasts enjoying the lake, which can provide opportunities for connections, tips, and shared experiences. This is a great place to come for a more social paddle day out.
Bowen Island is captivating and unforgettable. Just a short ferry ride away from the city, this charming island offers a tranquil and picturesque backdrop perfect for your paddle boarding adventure. Glide along the pristine coastline, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Discover hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and vibrant marine life as you navigate the island's pristine waters.
Bowen Island provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene tranquility, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the peaceful serenity of the coastal wilderness. Whether you are seeking a peaceful paddle or a thrilling exploration, paddle boarding around Bowen Island promises an extraordinary journey in the heart of Vancouver's natural splendor.
Spanish Banks is a truly exceptional destination for paddle boarding in Vancouver. Located on the city's west side, this beautiful stretch of beach offers expansive views of the ocean, the North Shore mountains, and the downtown skyline. What more can you ask for?
Paddle boarding at Spanish Banks is a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, as the calm waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for beginners to practice their skills. With ample space and a wide sandy beach, it is easy to launch your paddle board straight from the beach and embark on a peaceful journey along the shoreline. Make sure you come here to catch one of the picturesque sunsets to add an extra touch of magic to your paddle boarding experience.
The waters around Vancouver are perfect for beginners to learn how to stand up paddle board and master the basics. Most paddle boarding locations in and around the city are suitable with calm waters and sheltered bays. Jericho beach, Kitsilano Beach, and Spanish Banks all have ample space with safe shorelines that are ideal for newbies.
The Vancouver paddle boarding scene is mostly flatwater, recreational, and touring. With the calm conditions and mild temperatures, this is also a great place to get into yoga or pilates on a paddle board. If you want to try surfing, you will need to head up the coast to Tofino to find the waves.
Summer months provide the best temperatures to paddle board in Vancouver. Both the air and water temperatures are comfortable, you may be able to take the leap and just go in your swimmers! Winter months are fairly mild (especially considering this is Canada!) which means you can continue paddle boarding throughout the year with the appropriate clothing and wetsuits.
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