The Best Places For Stand Up Paddle Boarding In The New Forest
The last few years have seen the popularity of stand up paddle boarding soar. Whether you are looking for new ways to keep fit and explore the outdoors or are a keen yogi wanting other mindful practices to add to your tool kit, there are many reasons why stand up paddle boarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
The New Forest is a fantastic location for paddlers of all abilities and Careys Manor is a great place to base yourself for a paddle boarding adventure. We have partnered with local instructors and experience providers, The New Forest Paddle Sport Company and Nomadic Kitesurf to bring you the best SUP locations in the New Forest. Please remember that all these locations are tidal and if you are not confident paddler, it is best book an experience session or a lesson with a trained instructor to ensure your safety.
For the novice paddle boarder:
Keyhaven River – 9.4 miles from Careys Manor
Keyhaven has a large extent of sheltered water and is largely unspoilt. Being within sheltered waters it makes it a great place for beginners or newcomers to SUP. The New Forest Paddle Sport Company provide guided tours and lessons at Keyhaven and also hire equipment to individuals holding a BSUPA Ready to Ride certification or equivalent qualification. Should you already have your own equipment and wish to book a launch please click here.
Calshot Lagoon – 14.2 miles from Careys Manor
This is an ideal spot for beginners with a large lagoon, referred to as the back pond, of flat water forming at high tide. In addition, the surrounding buildings keep the area fairly sheltered from high winds. Nomadic Kitesurf have exclusive teaching rights here so are able to keep the area from becoming congested. For the more confident paddler details of launching can be found here.
Beaulieu River – 8.5 miles from Careys Manor
The Beaulieu River is a stunning, privately owned estuary which is home to 200 species of birdlife and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Combined with spectacular properties which line the shore Beaulieu River makes for the perfect location for a SUP. The paddle from Bucker’s Hard Marina to Beaulieu is around 6 miles there and back and launch passes can be booked here.
For paddlers who are more advanced and confident with tides, strong currents and winds:
Lepe Beach – 12 miles from Careys Manor
Part of Lepe Country Park with fantastic views over to the Isle of Wight, the waters provide a great spot for SUP at either low tide or high tide when the waters are calm. There is ample parking and a café close by.
Milford on Sea’s Hordle Cliffe – 9.3 miles from Careys Manor
This is a fantastic spot at low tide as the shallow waters and sand bar make it perfect for families. However, be aware when the tide starts coming in, the currents pick up fast and when windy the water gets very choppy, so best left for the more experienced paddler.
Tanners Lane – 8.1 miles from Careys Manor
Situated between Lymington and Beaulieu this is a beautiful rugged spot west of Lymington. New Forest ponies are able to roam on the beach whilst birds’ nest in the marsh areas. Great for a longer paddle, you can set off heading west around the marshes to Lymington which is approximately 3 miles each way.
Photos of stand up paddling boarding curtesy of The New Forest Paddle Sport Company Ltd
Start planning your New Forest stand up paddle boarding break at Careys Manor Hotel.
