Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has gained global popularity as a recreational and sporting activity due to its accessibility, minimal equipment requirements, and reported health and fitness benefits. It involves balancing on a board and using a single-bladed paddle to propel oneself through the water, with the main components of the stroke being entry, drive, and exit of the paddle from the water (Schram et al., 2019). This low-impact activity is suitable for individuals of all ages and skill levels and can be practiced on various bodies of water, offering a full-body workout and potential improvements in fitness, endurance, and self-rated quality of life. However, epidemiological studies have revealed that injuries in SUP commonly occur in the shoulder/upper arm, lower back, and elbow/forearm, highlighting the importance of understanding biomechanics to minimize the risk of injury. Research in this area is crucial for developing optimal paddling techniques and safety measures to enhance the paddling experience and reduce the likelihood of injuries (Balke et al., 2021).
Definition and History of Paddleboarding
The biomechanical analysis of the stand-up paddle board stroke has further highlighted the sport’s growth, indicating its increasing popularity among participants within recreation, competition, and rehabilitation settings (Schram et al., 2019). This historical and biomechanical background sets the stage for a comprehensive understanding of paddleboarding’s cultural and recreational significance, as well as its potential for performance improvement and injury minimization strategies.
Popularity and Benefits
Furthermore, research has shown that variations in kinematics exist among experienced and inexperienced SUP participants, which can be valuable for enhancing performance and informing injury minimization strategies. As a result, the growing popularity of paddleboarding has led to increased interest from participants, researchers, coaches, and health practitioners, highlighting its relevance in both recreational and rehabilitative settings (Schram et al., 2019).
Essential Equipment for Paddleboarding
A paddleboarder needs to be familiar with different types of paddleboards and paddles, as well as the appropriate safety gear and accessories needed for each adventure.
Paddleboards come in many different materials, styles, and lengths, all of which affect how hard and how far a person works while paddling and navigating various water conditions. The three main materials used in paddleboards are solid fiberglass, solid plastic, and inflatable (iSUP), all of which have pros and cons regarding performance, durability, paddler experience, and ease of transport and storage.
Solid fiberglass paddleboards have been around the longest and traditionally perform the best in terms of speed and navigation. They are more difficult to transport because they can be over 14 feet long. They are also the most susceptible to damage because a single significant impact can easily crack them. They are the least forgiving if a paddler is new to paddleboarding as they can be very hard and uncomfortable to stand on for more than an hour. Solid plastic paddleboards are made out of a thick, durable plastic material specifically designed to withstand multiple heavy impacts and scrapes without being damaged. Generally, they work well in choppy conditions and are very forgiving when a paddler falls. Unfortunately, they are not particularly fast or lightweight. Plastic boards also tend to be wide and heavy, which slows navigation.
Inflatable paddleboards (iSUPs) are a newer innovation and have become increasingly popular in the past decade. They are made of a durable vinyl material that is designed to inflate in a matter of minutes. iSUPs are easy to transport because they can deflate and shrink considerably in size. They are also quite hard to damage, and flattening them on the road is virtually impossible. Inflatable paddleboards are also the most forgiving for new paddlers, as they will not hurt as much when a paddler falls compared to solid boards. In terms of performance, inflatable paddleboards are growing in popularity quickly because they are designed like solid boards in terms of shape. Common complaints about inflatable boards include their general weight (they are often heavier than other boards) and feel (new paddlers often struggle with large movements on inflatable boards due to the “spongy” feeling of a 10-12 inch wide board that compresses when standing).
A paddleboard paddle is similar to a kayak paddle; it is long with a blade at the end of the shaft. Paddleboards are designed with either an adjustable or nonadjustable length. The general rule of thumb for someone who has never paddled before is to find a paddle that is 6-8 inches taller than standing height. Advanced paddlers can adjust their paddle length accordingly; if using a one-piece paddleboard or paddling a kayak.
Paddleboarding is an engaging and adventurous outdoors activity that can be enjoyed in lakes, rivers, and oceans all around the world. However, it can also be very dangerous if paddlers do not stay aware of their surroundings or do not have basic safety provisions. A personal flotation device (PFD), first aid kit, and repair kit are bare essentials that a beginner should have on every paddleboarding adventure.
A personal flotation device (PFD) is a buoyant device worn around the chest that will help keep a paddler afloat if they fall off their board. A life vest is an inflatable version of a PFD that will float a paddler once it is inflated.
A first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes, band-aids, and gauze to take care of cuts and scrapes that may occur while paddling. A repair kit should include an emergency inflatable paddleboard repair kit, such as glue and pieces of inflated polyethylene to patch leaks.
Although not essential items, sunscreen and other skin protection accessories should be used during trips. Sunburns are very common if a paddler is exposed to the elements for more than an hour, especially if they are on the water, as the sun is reflected off the surface.
Paddleboards and Paddles
Paddleboarding enthusiasts have a vibrant range of choices to make when selecting board types, lengths, widths, and materials, depending on their interests, experience levels, and the bodies of water they plan to paddle on. The hard, solid board options are commonly made of fiberglass, epoxies, or foam, while inflatable boards are constructed from layered PVC, urethane, and nylon with air-filling valves. Inflatable paddleboards are easily portable and can fit in an overhead compartment on a plane, making them ideal for travel. However, foam boards with shaped hulls have an edge in glide and performance on the water.
Paddleboard length is an important consideration that affects balance, stability, speed, maneuverability, and tracking. Boards longer than twelve feet track straighter and glide better than shorter boards, but are less maneuverable and more difficult to carry. In contrast, boards less than eleven and a half feet long turn more easily but require more strokes to cover the same distance. For most novices who want to do flatwater paddling or long-haired cruising on bays and harbors, an all-around board that is between 10 and 12 feet long is a good choice. Beginners paddling in choppy water or small surf, on the other hand, should go for a thicker board (more than 30 inches wide), generally not longer than 10 feet, as it’s easier to get back on after falling.
Paddleboards come in different shapes and styles, including surf, flatwater, yoga, race, and all-around styles. For instance, surf stands are shorter, narrower, and with more V in the hull, making them more stable when drawing turns but less stable for flatwater paddling. All-around paddleboards, on the other hand, are generally 11-12 feet long and 30-33 inches wide; they are stable boards that have enough length to track well in both choppy water and flatwater. Stand-up paddles are also available in a variety of materials, designs, and lengths. Generally, longer blades in the 10-12 inch range are recommended for surf paddling, while longer blades for cruising in flatwater should be in the 8-10 inch range.
Safety Gear and Accessories
In the realm of paddleboarding, safety gear and accessories play a pivotal role in ensuring a secure and responsible paddleboarding experience. Essential safety equipment such as life jackets, leashes, and other protective gear are crucial for preventing accidents and promoting safe paddleboarding practices (Balke et al., 2021). With the increasing popularity of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and the rise in the number of paddlers, the significance of safety measures cannot be overstated. These accessories not only contribute to the overall safety of the paddler but also enhance the enjoyment of the activity by providing peace of mind and confidence on the water. As such, it is imperative for paddleboarders to prioritize the use of safety gear and accessories to mitigate potential risks and ensure a fulfilling paddleboarding experience.
Top Paddleboarding Destinations Worldwide
As the popularity of paddleboarding continues to grow, many people are looking for the best places to experience this exhilarating watersport. From serene lakes to breathtaking coastlines, here are some of the top paddleboarding destinations worldwide.
Europe: With its picturesque coastlines and tranquil lakes, Europe has no shortage of paddleboarding spots. Some of the top destinations in this region include Stand-Up Paddling in Dublin Bay, scenic Alderney in the Channel Islands, Croatia’s stunning coastline, and tranquil Lake Bled in Slovenia.
North America: North America is home to some of the most beautiful paddleboarding destinations in the world. Early morning paddles on Stillwater Pond in Rockport, MA, are a stunning way to start the day, while the warm waters of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, offer breathtaking landscapes. Other noteworthy spots include Oahu’s North Shore, a surfer’s paradise, and Lake Tahoe, renowned for its crisp blue waters.
Asia: For those seeking an adventure, Asia offers some unique paddleboarding experiences. Exploring Ha Long Bay in Vietnam onboard a kayak or paddleboard is an unforgettable way to take in its beauty. Surfing the waves in Bali is also a must-try for those looking to challenge themselves, while the crystal clear water of Boracay is ideal for a more laid-back paddleboarding day. Other notable destinations include Phang Nga Bay in Thailand and the tranquil beaches of Waikiki, Hawaii.
Oceania: Oceania boasts some of the most breathtaking coastlines to paddleboard down. The 11 km stretch of coast between Palm Cove and Ellis Beach, North Queensland, is both beautiful and scenic. The paddleboarding experiences around Tangalooma on Moreton Island, Queensland, are also unique, allowing visitors to paddleboard with dolphins at dusk or kayak with them in the morning. Other highlights include the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road and the Seven Mile Beach on the coast of Australia.
South America: Known for its stunning natural beauty, South America is home to some amazing paddleboarding locations. The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador offer unique wildlife while allowing visitors to paddleboard with sea lions. Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests and beautiful beaches are a surfer’s dream, while the Patagonia Glacier in Chile is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other noteworthy spots include surfing the waves in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and taking in the breathtaking views of the lakes, mountains, and glaciers in Torres del Paine, Chile.
Africa: Africa’s coastlines and lakes make for some incredible paddleboarding adventures. The Stand-Up Paddling adventure along the beach near Capo Verde in Cape Verde Islands is perfect for beginner paddlers. On the other hand, those wanting to paddleboard with the Big Five in Africa can have an unforgettable experience at Lake Naivasha in Kenya. Other highlights include enjoying the perfect waves in Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa, and paddling along the breathtaking coastline of Cape Town, South Africa.
Europe
Europe boasts hidden lagoons, world-famous coastlines, majestic fjords, and charming towns all wrapped up in one place; a paddler’s paradise. Not just for intermediate and expert paddlers, even beginner ones can find suitable destinations, though they would be best advised to paddle under the supervision of experts. Here are five of Europe’s must-paddle destinations.
First, the Mincio River, Italy. A river among the famous Italian lakes, from Peschiera del Garda to Mantua. Top reasons to paddle are quietness along the water, exciting wildlife sightings, delectable food and wine routes nearby, and explorations of centuries-old towns along the way. Paddling for 12 kilometers and two or three hours, the river flows calmly along the flat, amazing natural sceneries, and, on the way to Mantua, historical sights can be seen as well. As an alternative, there are also longer paddling options around and along Lake Garda, popular for the windy weather and Mediterranean-like views. However, those are mainly meant for intermediate or expert paddlers.
Second, Blue Lagoon and Iceland’s Secret Lagoon. Two similarly named bathing spots providing different circumstances, but both are stunning must-swap spots after a long sweet-day paddling. The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous spots in the world. Infinity pools among moss-covered rocks and milky blue waters surrounded by steam, it’s hard not to picture the idyllic geothermal paradise that is the Blue Lagoon. However, it’s important to note that pre-booking is needed months ahead. Otherwise, the picturesque, cheaper, and more secretive Secret Lagoon has none of the hype. Very local and displaying Iceland’s old bathing tradition with natural hot springs, it’s nestled close to the Geysir in the heart of the Golden Circle forests.
And for better paddling, here are some tips. Rely on local knowledge; it’s a newbie mistake to disregard good, trained guidance. Shop local whenever possible since they paddle local, too. It’s okay not to be an expert; breathtaking, world-class places tend to be challenging, and danger is lurking more often than not in beautiful photos. Great drug for post-system crash is a lunch break with local food. As life is not just about working, often paddling includes some route exploration. When it comes to epic paddling flights, there’s a sweet spot for working on the issue; ideally close to both sea and mountains in the north, Font-Romeu in the south, or Verbier in the middle, but even this whole stretch of land sees only a couple of weeks each year.
North America
North America boasts some of the most stunning paddleboarding destinations in the world. With its intricate coastlines, famous lakes, calm rivers, and thousands of islands, each offering a unique experience, there’s something for everyone. There are many breathtaking paddleboarding locations in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The United States is one of the best places for paddleboarding in the world. From sea coast to inland lakes, there’s so much to choose from. Hawaii is famous for its beautifully blue waters and gentle waves. Not only can you paddleboard, but there are also many other water activities to enjoy. Crystal clear waters welcome swimmers and snorkelers, and stunning beaches and coastlines are a paradise for walkers and hikers. When looking for a challenging paddleboarding experience, head to the east coast and New Jersey for ocean paddleboarding or the Great Lakes for a 60,000 square-mile inland sea coast experience. New Jersey is also famous for its well-kept secret paddling hotspot – the Pine Barrens – a nature lover’s dream. With rivers flowing lush with vegetation, swamp water trails can be explored to discover nature’s wonder; the only limiting factor is finding it.
Canada is no less impressive when it comes to paddleboarding. Known for its pristine water clarity and national parks, it has something for everyone. For something different, head to Tofino and surf the beautiful beach waves. In the lakes around Calgary, the crystal waters navigate majestic mountains and hip river floats in the national parks. Here the wide bow rivers flow downstream amid grazing elk, crystal blue lakes, and towering glacier-covered mountains. For the adventurous, the white waters of Kicking Horse River beckon with twisting fast channels, plunging over waterfalls, and rushing through narrow canyons.
With such an extensive coastline and lovely waters, Mexico boasts some of the best paddleboarding spots close to the too-hot-and-too-crowded-to-lie coastal resorts. Sayulita is a happening surf town on the Pacific coast with golden sand beaches and warm blue water. Different surf rentals and paddleboarding services are easily found along the beach. The best way to spot dolphins or humpbacks is to rent a stand-up paddleboard in the bay or paddle into the open sea with a boat. The calm waters of one side of the beach welcome beginners to surf gentle waves, while the other side has a break for experienced surfers. Cabo San Lucas in Southern Baja California has a famed natural rock arch that’s easily spotted from the beach or on a once-in-a-lifetime paddleboard experience. The steep granite cliffs rising vertically from the water and the turquoise waves crashing into shore create the perfect setting for snorkeling. Many paddleboarding tours are bound to this spot.
Asia
Asia is a continent laden with adventure. An enormous landmass, bordered by some of the planet’s fastest-moving tectonic plates, Asia experiences some of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring natural environments. With its flourishing cultures and societies, there really is a great mix here of all things to satisfy the spirit, mind, body, and soul. Certain landlocked areas can result in holidaymakers being pretty far away from the luscious blue ocean that surfers seek, yet there’s still a wonderful diversity of paddleboarding spots, from sun-drenched beaches to picturesque emerald green temples.
To start, Thailand is legendary for its vibrant nightlife, tantalizing food, and extraordinary out-islands. No visit is complete without a trip to its stunning beaches! A hop from the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay to the sunshine soaked islands like Koh Yao Noi is an incredible experience. Thailand’s invitingly warm sea with unwinding trade winds reminds many of why they love the ocean. Better still, paddleboarding in Thailand is constantly improving, with locations including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Yao, Railay, Koh Kradan, and Koh Lanta. Each destination is run by professional English-speakers and all gear can be provided. Now that’s tropical bliss!
Indonesia is a hotspot for the surfing community and has blossomed in popularity over the last ten years. In Bali, the sublime beaches are brewed by land and sea elevating the adrenaline-charged shores to life, with velvety white sands and cerulean warm waters. Bali has laid the foundations to learn the art of stand-up paddling, from popular beaches like Legian/Jimbaran/Watu Bule to surfing spots like Bali Hut and Balangan. Not only that, there’s also the peaceful tranquility of cove beaches seeking mind-clearing beauty! In Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida islands, views of craggy cliffs, flourishing green valleys, and white sandy beaches surrounded by turquoise reef are just a dreamy tropical paradise. Bali exploration with top-surf SUP tours paddling all the spots is something to be appreciated. There are so many locations in Indonesia ranging from Nias in the west right across to the Papuan islands in the east where the beautiful underwater is always drawn and inviting, competitions welcomed, or off-the-grid adventures. Though most spots are suitable for wave riders, there are many serene flat-watered spots worthy of exploration.
Oceania
Paddleboarding in Oceania is like spending time in nature’s best waterpark. Whether you want to ride waves, paddle in lagoons, explore remote islands, or glide through fjords, it has it all. Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific islands are among the world’s top ten paddleboarding locations. Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is like surfing’s more relaxed brother. You can ride waves, but you can also take it easy, cruise along coasts or rivers and enjoy the views. All you need is a paddleboard (SUP) and a paddle, and anyone can do it. It’s also a great workout for the arms and core.
Australia is home to many kinds of paddleboarding. You can join ocean races with hundreds of people on the Gold Coast, paddle through cages next to sharks in Port Lincoln, SUP on bronze-sparkly bays near Gisborne, or float in the milky lakes of the Whitsunday Islands. New Zealand is like paddleboarding paradise. You can glide through glowworm caves in Te Anau, paddle around turquoise lakes in Rotorua, or stand beside bubbling mud in Tongariro National Park. The breathtaking scenery is only half the experience – you might also meet some friendly locals.
Oceania’s northernmost island group, Micronesia, consists of over 2,000 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, stretching from Hawaii to the Philippines. Paddleboarding is ideal in Micronesia, especially the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Most of the islands are surrounded by relatively calm waters, which are perfect for beginners. There are many gorgeous lagoons, mangrove channels, and uninhabited islands waiting to be paddled around. For the more adventurous, the weather can get rough, with waves of up to ten feet on certain reefs. Paddleboarders can join locals to visit untouched beaches or sandbars where they can surf, frolic with baby sharks, and enjoy the beauty of tropical islands.
South America
With vast expanses of stunning coastlines waiting to be explored, South America is the ultimate playground for paddleboarding enthusiasts in search of that next big adventure. Highlighted below are just some of South America’s best paddleboarding hotspots.
Sharing the world’s longest continental mountain range with neighboring Chile, Argentina offers a vast array of paddling options with all sorts of mesmerizing landscapes to discover. For glittering lake vistas, glacial paddling opportunities, and stunning mountain scenery, head to the gorgeous surrounds of the rippling turquoise waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi situated in the Lake District region of Patagonia, San Carlos De Bariloche. For coastal town charm, warm weather, and tropical waters, Punta Del Este on the country’s southern coast is ideal.
Located at the edge of the Amazon Basin, locals believe that the beautiful coastal city of Belém is the birthplace of paddleboarding. Today, locals ride their boards atop the river’s murky waters as they surf the city’s stunning tidal waves. With its bright surf and fun local atmosphere, this is one destination not to be missed. For tropical coastal paradise bliss, head to Brazil’s lush Northeast region which boasts warm weather and picture-perfect sandy beaches. Here, lagoons, reefs, mangroves, and estuaries dot the coast to create cities such as Jericoacoara, Cumbuco, and Praia do Forte that boast some of the world’s best paddleboarding conditions. With so many beautiful places to explore on and off the board, South America is a prime destination for adventure seekers and paddleboarding lovers alike.
Africa
From the rugged coastlines and white sand beaches to the most authentic, vibrant cultures and the incredible wildlife that graces the glorious shores of the African continent, Africa is a dream SUP destination. Experience buzzing cities, ancient historical tribes, and some of the last iconic free-roaming wildlife on earth all right here in Africa.
The Republic of Mozambique, commonly known as Mozambique, is one of the many hidden gems in Africa. Though not as well known for SUP as Namibia and South Africa, it should be at the top of anyone’s list! The country has over 2,500 km of coastline peppered with stunning islands and is the only place in the world where a stand-up paddleboarder can see wild dolphins and dugongs in their natural reef lagoon habitat. This magical playground awaits those seeking adventure, as it remains largely undiscovered and undeveloped. Expansive white sand beaches, shallow turquoise lagoons, and vibrant pastel-colored coral reef gardens meet SUP hotspots everywhere, from giant tides to barrels, downwind runners, flat-water lagoons, mangrove estuaries, and island-hopping excursions. For those looking for a little more than flat water and easy waves, try the famous Donkies surf break, rated as one of the best surf spots around, complete with barrel waves that break over shallow reefs.
Namibia is a dry, wild, and remote country located on the southwestern coast of Africa. It is a popular SUP destination due to a striking contrast of some of the world’s oldest and driest desert landscapes peppered with grand mountains and canyons, jagged rocky coastlines and beautiful river deltas flowing into the expansive Atlantic Ocean. Watched revered herds of elephant and hippos mugging for the cameras, brightly painted flamingos and pelicans, grey safen penguins, and well-camouflaged brown hyena. Octopus lodged a decade-old streak at the well-known Skeleton coast. Paddle down to the fulcrum of the Great African Rift Valley, home to the second most picturesque canyon on earth, the Fish River Canyon, and conquering the Namib dunes – the tallest sand dunes on the planet. Stand across the pale wilderness and golden savannah where famous free-roaming wildlife once roamed, much like the Serengeti, and the eerie landscapes dotted with millions of petrified rocks and trees older than mankind. Namibia desperately needs to be on everyone’s bucket list, especially for adventure seekers!
Paddleboarding Techniques and Skills
Paddleboarding, also referred to as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), is a popular watersport that offers a full-body workout while allowing participants to enjoy scenic views from the water. To get started, it is important to have the right equipment, especially a suitable board. There are various types of paddleboards available, including all-around boards, touring boards, inflatable boards, and racing boards, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. After selecting a board, the next step is to become familiar with the parts of the board and the paddling gear, such as the paddle, leash, and PFD (personal flotation device).
Once the equipment is in place, the next step is to learn how to get on the board in shallow water. After finding a comfortable kneeling position, it is recommended to practice a few strokes while kneeling to get a feel for the board. Later, a few trials standing up and trying various strokes while standing are suggested. During the learning process, it is advisable to observe the water and avoid windy and boat-heavy places. If falling into the water, it is recommended to let go of the paddle and the board, swim to the side of the board, and climb back onto it from behind. With practice, solid riding skills will eventually develop.
Paddling techniques are divided into two sections: basic techniques and advanced techniques. The goal of paddling is to create propulsion through the water while maintaining balance. When starting to paddle, it is important to get on the board, hold the paddle with a loose grip and straight arms, keep the paddle at a sixty-degree angle from the water, and paddle on the right side of the board. Many beginners start by paddling on the right side, which can create an unbalanced board, so it is recommended to paddle on the left side after catching momentum on the right side or to switch from each side to maintain an equal balance. It is essential to keep a wide stance in the center of the board or to shift feet only slightly before switching strokes. Initially, feet will want to shift stance as power and momentum increase, but it is important to maintain a wide steady footing in the center of the board. Finally, it is important to keep the paddle straight and at an angle in the water and to keep looking forward. Never pull the paddle out of the water by raising it straight above the head.
Advanced techniques include turning techniques such as the forward sweep for a kick turn, quick turns with a pivot, and reverse sweep. Stopping and slowing paddling techniques are also important and can be done through forward brakes with a turn away and reverse stroke paddling.
Environmental Conservation and Responsible Paddleboarding Practices
Paddleboarding is a pleasurable water sport that lets adventurers navigate bays, channels, and coastlines while soaking up the sun and all the sights and sounds of Mother Nature. It’s important, however, to respect marine environments while being out on the water. An adventurer should know how to approach Mother Nature with the respect and consideration that she deserves for a safe and fun stand-up paddleboard getaway. This includes learning local laws and regulations regarding marine wildlife, being aware of hazards, carrying the right equipment, and maintaining the board so it can be enjoyed for many years to come.
In addition to looking out for marine wildlife, it’s also important to respect beach etiquette while getting on and off the board. While on the board, an adventurer should always paddle on the right side of the channel, allow yachts and motorized vessels to pass safely, and avoid approaching animals. On larger beach breaks or waves, it’s advised to sit back and wait until there are openings to paddle in. This would mean letting others go first without dropping in on them, which would otherwise take etiquette on the water for granted.
Before heading out on the water, one should make use of the local knowledge of the area, including weather, wind, and tide conditions. Knowing these things can help decide where to go and if SUP-ing is safe. Here are ten questions to ask: How strong is the tide? Is it coming in or going out? What’s the significant wave height? What is the shape of the bottom? What is the prevailing wind? How are the conditions affected by wind? Where is it best to go with different conditions? Are there any rips? What are the marine hazards? If jet skiing, are there any underwater hazards like whale bones?
Before jumping into the water, one should ask the beach manager or lifeguard about local regulations regarding marine wildlife. For example, in Hawaii, it’s illegal to approach more than fifty yards to a Hawaiian monk seal or twenty-five yards to a green sea turtle. In both instances, the beachgoer would face a hefty fine. If, however, an individual happens to encounter one of these animals too closely, the right thing to do is maintain distance and alert authorities. Two more marine wildlife concerns more specific to paddleboards are tiger shark and jellyfish attacks. It’s a reasonable idea to take the necessary precautions, including dressing accordingly and not bringing the board out in black dusk-like water.