Introduction to Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding is an incredibly fun and easy-to-do watersport for all ages. Unlike traditional wave riding on a surfboard, paddleboarding incorporates using a paddle while standing up. Paddleboards are more stable and bouyant than traditional surfing boards. This gives paddleboarders the option of riding in many different waterways or beaches. Paddleboarding is great exercise and is excellent balance training. Paddleboarding is unique because it engages the paddleboarder in a total body work out through continuous coordination and balance. Jupiter Paddleboarding offers many different Paddleboarding options for the complete beginner to serious enthusiast. Paddleboard demos, lessons, and tours are available on request. Get out there and see what everyone is talking about!  

Types of Paddleboards

All-Around Paddleboards
All-around paddlboards are great for all skill levels and perform optimally in the widest possible range of water conditions. All-around paddleboards generally range from 10' to 11" and feature a flat bottom shape. All-around paddleboards typically have rounder noses and tails enabling them with the ability to ride waves or go for a cruise on a flatwater bay.

Wave Paddleboards
Wave paddleboards are designed specifically for riding waves. Wave paddleboards are typically 11" to 12'5" and have sharper outlines, similar to gun surfboards. Additionally, wave paddleboards tend to have narrower noses and tails compared to all-around paddleboards. Wave paddleboards are ideally suited for intermediate to advanced paddleboarders.

Racing Paddleboards
Racing paddleboards are made for going fast and checkered flags! Racing paddleboards have flatter rocker lines and are stripped down in size for speed purposes. A proficient level of balance and experience in paddleboarding is recommended before purchasing a racing specific paddleboard.

Long Distance Paddleboards
Long distance paddleboards range from 11'5" to 12'6" and are built for all ability levels. Long distance paddleboards are similar to racing paddleboards with flatter rocker lines, but tend to be closer in shape to wave paddleboards. The unique outline of distance paddleboards provides them with extended glide and cruising speed. Long distance boards are the longest paddleboards found in the range of 11'6" to 12'6".

Choosing a Location to Ride

Flat Water
When learning to paddleboard flat water is recommended. Flat water conditions make it easier to practice the basics of balance, stance technique, and transitions. It is quite common to fall off the first couple of times!

Waves
Waves provide exciting opportunities for skilled paddleboarders with developed paddling strength and experience. The ability and ease of catching a wave is what makes paddleboarding so unique.

Paddleboarding Questions and Answer

Q. Is paddleboarding a safe sport?

A. Paddleboarding is a very safe sport, as long as one selects conditions within his or her ability level. Paddleboards are large pieces of equipment, that should be respected regardless of the water conditions. Lessons help teach new riders safe and responsible paddleboarding practices.

Q. Do I need a lesson to go paddleboarding?

A. Paddleboarding lessons are a great idea to help new riders learn the basic skills. Normally a few minutes of practice is all it takes to become self-sufficient.

Q. How much are paddleboarding lessons and demos?

A. Paddleboarding lessons are $125 for 2 1/2 hours. Demos are $40 half day and $60 full day. Check out our paddleboarding section for information on paddleboarding lessons and demos.

Q. Where can I go paddleboarding?

A. Paddleboarding is possible anywhere with enough water. Locations with heavy boat traffic, strong currents, dangerous outcroppings, and unforgiving conditions should be avoided. Keep a safe distance from swimming areas at local beaches, so as not to become a danger to other swimmers or surfers.

Paddleboarding Essentials

1. Paddleboard
2. Paddle made for paddleboarding
3. Sun protection
4. Wetsuit
5. Paddleboard leash for wave riding

 

 

Travel Destinations: Cabarete - Dominican Republic >> St. Augustine Beach, Florida