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Beginners Guide to Stand Up Paddle Boarding on the English Riviera

19 July 2025

Discover the English Riviera from a New Perspective

Imagine gliding across crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient sea caves and hidden beaches, with vibrant ocean life visible beneath your board. This isn’t just a daydream; it’s the gorgeous reality of stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) right here on the English Riviera! With over 22 miles of stunning South Devon coastline and some of the best weather in the UK, it’s the ultimate way to unlock a world of adventure and discovery on holiday!


Why You’ll Love Paddle Boarding Here

Getting out on a paddleboard is one of the best things to do in Torquay, with an incredible blend of benefits for your body and mind.

It Doesn’t Even Feel Like Exercise:

Paddle boarding provides a fantastic full-body workout, engaging your core, legs, arms and back in a low-impact way. Plus, the release of endorphins does wonders for your overall well-being!

Connect with Nature’s Wonders:

Experience a unique connection to nature as you explore areas unseen by most along the Torbay coast. Picture dolphins breaking the surface, seals basking on rocks or schools of fish and jellyfish gliding beneath you. It’s a gentle reminder of life’s simple joys and the beauty of our special underwater world!

Find Your Inner Calm & Confidence:

The “blue space” environment and the gentle motion of the waves make paddle boarding a natural stress reliever, promoting a deep sense of calm. It also builds personal confidence and resilience as you learn new skills and navigate the water.


Your Paddleboarding Journey: Top Tips for Beginners!

Ready to hit the water? Here are a few essential tips to get you started:

How to Stand Up:

Begin by kneeling in the center of your board to get a feel for paddling. When ready, slowly rise to a standing position with feet on either side of the handle, slightly staggered for balance.

What to Wear:

For cooler waters or beginners, a lightweight wetsuit is best. On warmer days, opt for swimwear or quick-drying clothes, always with sun protection and optional water shoes.

Safety on the Water:

Always check the weather and wind, start in calm waters, wear your leash, and ensure you can swim.


Where to get a local lesson or hire a board in Torquay

Soak Lifestyle

Just a 5-minute stroll from TLH Leisure Resort, located on Torre Abbey Beach you will find Soak Lifestyle. They offer lessons to first time paddle boarders, teaching new techniques, water safety and super fun learning session. If you are more experienced you can hire out the equipment  FIND OUT MORE.

This sandy, flat beach is protected by Princess Pier and Corbyn Head, providing exceptionally safe conditions in Torquay.

SUP Torbay

Just a short trip from our hotels, you’ll find SUP Torbay at Oddicombe Beach, Babbacombe. You can get there by bus or car, even using the famous Cliff Railway to get up and down one of the hill!

This beach is iconic for it’s red sandstone cliffs, formed 275 million years ago in a desert environment!

Whether you’re looking to explore the coastline at your own pace with equipment hire or prefer a guided adventure, SUP Torbay has you covered. Their 2.5-3 hour tours are perfect for all skill levels, taking you through coves to a secluded beach, exploring caves and spotting local wildlife. FIND OUT MORE

Anstey’s Cove

Nestled between Babbacombe and Torquay, Anstey’s Cove is an ideal place to take in the best of the English Riviera coastline, away from the hustle and bustle. Explore the rocky limestone cliffs and admire the wooded hillsides from the water. Paddle boards and kayaks are available for hire. FIND OUT MORE

It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories, whether you’re enjoying a romantic paddle for two or embarking on a fun-filled family adventure!


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