Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore the landscape. It opens up a number of new environments by allowing individuals and groups to navigate the water, finding secret lakes and hidden beaches. SUP can also be a way to experience the water from a new perspective. In fact, many choose to take their meditation and yoga practice out and onto the water specifically for the purpose of immersing themselves in the majesty of certain beach landscapes.
If you’re looking to experience such an adventure on your paddleboard, one of discovery or respite, then we have four of the most photogenic and unforgettable SUP locations that you can find around Australia.
Lord Howe Island
This tiny island offers perhaps the most magical paddleboarding experience for those that are willing and able to make the journey out to explore. Lord Howe Island was created by volcanic activity and is endowed with pristine beaches and clear waters, as well as an exceptionally rich landscape of aquatic life. This means that it is not uncommon for paddleboarders to see an amazing array of wildlife beneath their board as they drift over crystal-clear water.
Unfortunately, the only way to access the island remains by plane, which can be costly. However, those willing to make the investment will be rewarded with sights like no other in Australia.
Mornington Peninsula
One of the most decadent areas of Melbourne, this peninsula is filled with fantastic beaches, pristine golf courses, and stunning vineyards. While certain areas, such as Mount Martha Beach, can be particularly busy during the summer months, the area gets quieter during the winter while still retaining its natural beauty.
It is popular among surfers too, with a reliable swell, so be sure to bring along a paddleboard that is perfect for the waves so that you can get the most of out this stunning location.
Rottnest Island
Those who venture out to Perth will have access to one of the most stunning islands in the world, a location that is also filled with quokkas. Rottnest Island is certainly a journey to get to for those living on the East Coast, but it is entirely worth it since paddleboarders will have access to azure waters and rich coastal landscapes, filled with wild activity.
There are also a number of underground caves too, many of which can be seen by simply paddling over them. Be sure to bring a snorkel and you’ll likely want to jump in.
Whitsundays
Over seventy islands make up the Whitsundays and it is home to one of the world’s most famous natural features, the Great Barrier Reef. Paddleboarding activity is allowed across its many waters and you are likely to see groups and equipment rental options scattered across the landscape.
Be sure to keep a camera with you, especially a waterproof one, as this is such a unique and remarkable environment that you will want to snapshot everything you see, from the immaculate sands to the vast oceans.
