Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding
Oahu is one of Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding.

1. Oahu

Oʻahu, HI
Island · Aliamanu - Salt Lake - Foster Village · 25 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: While the island can get enormous waves, the South Shore is more forgiving with fairly flat water. Check out many of the surf shops that rent boards, and offer lessons and tours. Read more.

City of Hood River is one of Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding.

2. City of Hood River

Oregon
City · 22 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: This is a natural spot for stand-up paddle boarding. Anyone can paddle on it, but visitors should wear a wetsuit. The waters are chilly year-round, so come prepared. Read more.

3. Town Lake Trail - Mile Marker 0

Texas
Other Great Outdoors · Bouldin Creek · 12 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: Texas' capital is home to the world largest paddle-board manufacturer, SUP ATX. Paddlers love the waters of city-center Town Lake. The company rents boards and sponsors free demos and group outings. Read more.

Sand Beach is one of Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding.

4. Sand Beach

9.1
Park Loop Rd, Bar Harbor, ME
Beach · 12 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: Boarders can try ocean paddling in sheltered coves and bays, while inland lakes offer beautiful flat-water options. While the culture for stand-up paddle boarding is smaller, rentals are available. Read more.

French Broad River is one of Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding.

5. French Broad River

Asheville, NC
River · 2 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: This laid-back, artsy town has everything paddlers need. The French Broad River is both scenic and forgiving. It's broad enough and slow-moving enough that it's just perfect. Read more.

Twin Lakes State Beach is one of Great places to try stand-up paddle boarding.

6. Twin Lakes State Beach

9.1
East Cliff Dr (7th Ave), Santa Cruz, CA
Beach · 20 tips and reviews

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: Credit for stand-up paddle boarding here goes to local supermodel Marisa Miller who has her own line of boards. Perfect place for getting out on the water and some surf is easy enough for beginners. Read more.

7. Paddleboard Specialists

5495 Catfish Ct, Town of Westport, WI
Board Store · 1 tip

USA TODAYUSA TODAY: Paddleboard Specialists, hosted the Midwest Stand-up Paddle Festival in early July 2012. Popular paddling spots include lakes Monona, Waubesa, and Kegonsa. Read more.