Stand-up paddle surfing is the ‘Big New Thing’ in the US. It involves standing up on a large longboard and propelling yourself along with what is essentially a canoe paddle. Its origins lie with the beach boys of Waikiki in Hawaii, where it has experienced a recent resurgence since it first became popular in the 1960s. In 2004 it was included in the Buffalo big board contest in Makaha, Hawaii, and in the Quiksilver Molokai Oahu paddle board race.
Stand up paddle surfing has since been adopted by American surfers as an alternative offshoot of the real thing, as well as a core fitness activity. There are two divisions of the sport: beginners and those doing fitness training tend to ride small waves on big wide boards measuring 12ft by 31 inches; smaller boards – between 8ft and 10ft long – are suitable for bigger waves.
Now stand-up paddle surfing is coming to the UK for the first time. A few expert surfers have been spotted trying out the boards on the Cornish and Devonshire coast, and lessons will be available with us along the north Cornish coastline.
Stand up paddle surf lessons are £40 for an hour and a half. This includes all equipment.
