Thailand is a fantastic destination for paddle boarding enthusiasts, offering a myriad of stunning locations with calm waters and picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, here are some of the best places to go paddle boarding in Thailand:
Koh Samui:
Koh Samui, known for its palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters, offers fantastic paddleboarding opportunities. Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are excellent choices for paddleboarding, with their calm and clear waters. Additionally, you can explore the lesser-known Maenam Beach or head to the quieter eastern coast to discover hidden bays and secluded spots. Drop us a note to book your stand-up paddleboard tour or lesson in Koh Samui.
Koh Tao:
Known as a diver’s paradise, the island of Koh Tao also offers fantastic paddleboarding experiences. The calm and shallow waters surrounding Koh Tao make it an ideal destination for beginners. Sairee Beach and Chalok Baan Kao Bay are popular spots to rent a paddleboard and explore the island’s stunning coastline, dotted with rocky outcrops and vibrant marine life. On Koh Tao, you can rent paddle boards and hang out with the team at SUP Tao.
Phuket:
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, boasts a variety of excellent paddleboarding spots. Patong Beach and Kata Beach are popular choices, offering calm waters and beautiful coastal views. For a more tranquil experience, head to the nearby Ao Yon Bay or Bang Tao Beach, where you can paddle along serene shores and explore hidden coves. If you’re in Phuket, drop in to see the guys at Talay Surf for SUP and Surf lessons and rentals.
Krabi:
Located on Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast, Krabi is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches. Railay Beach, with its stunning backdrop of towering cliffs, is a popular paddleboarding destination. You can also explore the nearby Phra Nang Cave Beach and Ao Nang Beach, where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Koh Lanta:
Koh Lanta, a peaceful and less-crowded island in the Andaman Sea, is a hidden gem for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Long Beach and Klong Dao Beach are great choices, offering calm waters and beautiful stretches of sand. You can paddle along the coastline, soak up the stunning sunset views, and even venture to nearby islands like Koh Rok for a day of paddleboarding adventure.
Pattaya:
While primarily known for its vibrant nightlife, Pattaya also offers paddleboarding opportunities along its coastline. Jomtien Beach, just south of Pattaya, provides a wide sandy shore and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing paddleboarding session. You can also explore nearby islands such as Koh Larn, where crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches await. If you’re visiting Pattaya, you can paddle with Amara Watersports. And coming up in November 2023, the ICF Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) World Championships will be held on Jomtien Beach – bringing the best of the SUP world to Thailand.
Remember to check local weather conditions, tidal patterns, and any regulations or safety guidelines before embarking on your paddleboarding adventure. Additionally, many resorts and watersports centers in these areas offer paddleboard rentals and lessons, making it easy to get started or enhance your skills.
Whether you’re seeking scenic beauty, tranquility, or a touch of adventure, Thailand’s diverse coastal destinations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable paddleboarding experience. So grab your paddle, embrace the warm tropical waters, and explore the stunning coastlines of this captivating country.
