If you’ve been to the beach recently, chances are you’ve seen someone gliding through the water on a stand-up paddleboard. Often shortened to SUP, these watercraft have exploded in popularity over recent years. When you consider just how many beautiful waterways we have, it's easy to see why!
So, if you’ve just picked up a SUP or want to explore somewhere new, we’ve compiled a quick list of 10 fantastic destinations for stand-up paddleboarding in Australia.
The Health Benefits of Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a low-impact activity that provides a great full-body workout. Each paddle engages your arms, legs, and core, combining strength, balance, and cardiovascular benefits in one fun session on the water.
Maintaining balance on the board also builds core strength, improves posture, and enhances overall stability. The gentle, continuous movements involved in paddling support joint health and flexibility, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Spending time outdoors while paddling gives your body a natural boost of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and immune function. Regular SUP sessions also increase stamina, strengthen the cardiovascular system, and improve endurance, helping you stay active for longer.
10 Spots to Add to Your List
Australia is bursting with fantastic locations to go paddleboarding. The 10 we’ve listed below are just scratching the surface, but are nonetheless fantastic places to add to your list!
Rose Bay, New South Wales
Imagine gliding across calm sparkling waters with Sydney’s harbour as your backdrop. Hard to beat, right? This is all possible at Rose Bay. This sheltered spot is perfect for beginners and anyone after a leisurely paddle. Local seabirds and the occasional seal add to the natural charm, while yachts drift lazily nearby.
Getting there is simple because it's only a short drive or public transport trip (ferry or bus) from the Sydney CBD, with convenient parking nearby as well (though you may want to get there early to secure a spot!). What sets Rose Bay apart is its balance of tranquillity and scenic beauty, giving paddlers the sense of escaping the city without ever leaving it.
Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, Northern Territory
Next we have an entirely different experience altogether, but it's no less memorable or awe-inspiring. Towering sandstone cliffs rise dramatically on either side as you paddle through Nitmiluk Gorge, where the backdrop is truly one-of-a-kind. Multiple gorge sections let you choose between shorter excursions or full-day adventures. Access is via a short drive from Katherine, with boat ramps and guided tours providing safety and insight into the area’s Indigenous culture.
What makes this experience unforgettable is the combination of remote beauty and serenity. Waterfalls, quiet gorges, wildlife, and thousands of years of history all in the one place.
Noosa River, Queensland
Mangroves, quiet inlets, and crystal-clear waters await on this Sunshine Coast gem. The Noosa River is ideal for a relaxing SUP session, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler. Fly into Sunshine Coast Airport or drive from Brisbane, and you’ll find plenty of launch spots at Tewantin or Noosaville.
Its charm comes from variety: paddle past waterfront homes, explore shaded mangroves, or glide into secluded beaches. The combination of calm waters, wildlife, and accessibility makes Noosa River an enduring favourite for paddlers of all ages.
Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Few places epitomise natural beauty quite like Wineglass Bay. Located on Tasmania's eastern coastline, this bay has turquoise waters that sweep up onto soft white sands, all framed by pink granite peaks. Essentially, it's a postcard-perfect setting for paddleboarding. Reachable via a drive from Hobart or Launceston to Coles Bay, the bay’s gentle conditions make it ideal for relaxed paddles.
What truly sets it apart, however, is the innate sense of seclusion: calm waters, abundant wildlife, and pristine surroundings, a peaceful escape into Tasmania’s rugged, iconic scenery. Every stroke feels like paddling through a natural masterpiece.
Kuranda Rainforest, Queensland
Snake along quiet rivers shaded by lush rainforest canopy, where birds call and waterfalls trickle nearby. Kuranda Rainforest in the Atherton Tablelands offers a peaceful, immersive SUP experience. You can drive from Cairns or enjoy the scenic Kuranda Skyrail to reach this verdant oasis.
Its appeal is in the rainforest immersion: slow-moving waters allow beginners to find their balance, while more experienced paddlers enjoy spotting turtles and native birds. The sense of being enveloped by nature makes paddling here uniquely calming.
Golden Beach, Queensland
Protected waters and long sandy stretches make Golden Beach a haven for paddlers seeking calm and safety. The mouth of Pumicestone Passage offers shallow, beginner-friendly conditions, perfect for extended paddles. Drive from Brisbane or Sunshine Coast Airport to access multiple launch points.
Dolphins and pelicans often join your journey, adding a lively touch to the serene scenery. Golden Beach’s charm is in its combination of gentle waters, wildlife encounters, and unobstructed views of Bribie Island—an idyllic spot to unwind on a paddleboard.
Anglesea, Victoria
The Anglesea River winds gently through bushland, offering peaceful paddling away from the ocean’s waves. Families and beginners will appreciate its calm, shallow waters. Reachable by car from Geelong or Melbourne, river access points provide easy launches.
The real magic is in the setting: native birds flit along the banks, and kangaroos can sometimes be seen grazing nearby. A short paddle gives a sense of escape, while nearby cafes and shops add convenience, making Anglesea a delightful mix of nature and community.
Shoal Bay, New South Wales
The clear waters and soft sand make Shoal Bay a standout paddleboarding destination. Its sheltered bays and gentle tides also create the ideal conditions for all skill levels, from novices to advanced paddlers. Simply drive up from either Newcastle or Sydney, and you’ll find multiple public boat ramps and beaches to launch your board.
What makes Shoal Bay special is the peacefulness: there’s the chance to explore hidden coves, watch dolphins glide past, and enjoy the golden sand away from the kind of crowds you’ll find in Sydney or Byron.
Port Phillip Bay, Victoria
Expansive, sheltered waters meet the city skyline in Port Phillip Bay, offering versatile paddling experiences. From short trips near the shore to longer adventures across the bay, there’s something for everyone.
You can launch from Port Melbourne all the way down to the Bayside suburbs, with multiple beaches and boat ramps ready for launch. The bay is typically calm with minimal waves or strong currents, however can change quickly so always keep an eye on the forecast. All the while, you can take in the iconic views of the city skyline and revel in the atmosphere that makes summer in Melbourne so special.
Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra (ACT)
Canberra gets very cold in winter, but the warmth of the summer season is perfect for outdoor activity. Situated right in the centre of Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin gives you the perfect backdrop to glide past iconic national landmarks and manicured parks. Calm waters and multiple coves make it beginner-friendly, while views of bridges, sculptures, and Parliament House add a special touch to the overall experience.
The lake is accessible by car or public transport, with public ramps for easy launches. What makes this spot special is the balance of city convenience and peacefulness. So grab your board, then enjoy the water, wildlife, and iconic Canberra scenery all in a single outing.
Elevate Your Experience with a Brand-New Paddleboard
Finding a great destination is one thing, but it also comes down to the board you’re using. So, if you’re looking for your first ever board, or it's time for an upgrade, we have a fantastic range of stand-up paddleboards for sale.
Shark iSUP All Round Ride 11 Foot
The All Round Ride range is the perfect starting point for your paddleboarding journey. It offers an ideal balance of stability, straight-line tracking, and manoeuvrability, making it a great choice for first-time paddlers.
Shark’s inflatable stand-up paddleboards are designed to fit both your lifestyle and budget, while minimising environmental impact. Each board comes fully equipped with a paddle, carry bag, and an industry-leading 3-year warranty.
ECS Limitless Thermo SUP 10'6"
Discover the Limitless Stand-Up Paddleboard, engineered for adventure and built to last. With its wide outline for unmatched stability and low rocker profile for effortless glide, this board is perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Whether you're cruising serene lakes, navigating rivers, or exploring coastal waves, the Limitless delivers a smooth and reliable ride.
Tips for Your Next Paddleboarding Adventure
Choosing the Right Board: Your first SUP choice is the most important, as it sets the tone for your experience. Consider storage, your skill level, water type, and paddling style, then ask an expert in-store to help you decide.
Take it Slow: Don’t rush, there’s no need! Instead, start on your knees, practice strokes, and build confidence before pushing into longer paddles or faster turns.
Safety First: Always wear a leg leash and consider a PFD. A leash keeps you connected to your board and adds peace of mind in unpredictable conditions.
Find the Right Location: Start in calm lakes, rivers, or bays rather than challenging surf or ocean waters. Always paddle to your level and ideally with a buddy.
Getting on Board: Begin in calm, shallow water by kneeling before standing. Keep your head up, use the paddle for balance, and ease yourself into it.
Paddle Handling: The correct paddle techniques will improve your level of efficiency and stability. Make sure the paddle length is suited to you, the blade bends away, and always use a leash.
Stability and Personal Space: Keep your head up for balance and give others plenty of room. Avoid busy areas full of swimmers, jet skis or boats.
Falling Safely: Falling is part of SUP, so do it right. Fall away from your board to avoid injury and use your leash to stay connected.
Core Engagement: Use your core, not just your arms, for powerful, efficient strokes. Slightly bent knees and head up will improve balance and endurance.
Essential Items: Bring sunscreen, bug spray, water, and dry clothes in a waterproof bag. Always wear UV clothing and a hat for sun protection.
PaddleZone: Your Home for SUPs in Australia
Stand-up paddleboards are an excellent recreational activity, and with an abundance of beautiful waterways, Australia is the perfect place for your next adventure. At PaddleZone, we’ve got everything you need to start the journey off right.
We have both inflatable and rigid stand up paddle boards for sale, as well as a full range of SUP paddles, PFDs, safety equipment, and more! This includes top-of-the-line equipment from leading global brands like Shark and ECS.
Interested in something a little different from SUPs? We also have a great collection of kayaks for sale.
- Share :
-
-
-
