Stand Up Paddleboarding also know as SUP can be done in the waves of the Gulf of Mexico or on the flat waters of the Laguna Madre Bay for an easier and calmer conditions. Since South Padre Island has those two bodies of water, it makes for an excellent place to practice or learn this new water sport for people of all abilities. SUP rentals are available by the day, as well as SUP lessons for newcomers.

For those who are unfamiliar with the term ‘SUP’, it stands for Stand Up Paddleboard. A paddleboard is essentially an oversized surfrboard that is meant for paddling only purposes. They have integrated a paddle (similar to canoe paddle) in order to be able to stand up while paddleboarding. Hence the term ‘Stand Up Paddleboarding’. The sport is relatviely easy to do and can be performed on any body of water from lakes, rivers, oceans, lagoons, and any other body of water. The boards are very wide which makes for easy balancing, but also provide a good workout because you muscles are kept tense to maintain balance.

South Padre Island has over a million acres of flat and shallow water. The Laguna Madre Bay is an incredible place to travel around with a stand up paddleboard. The marine life, sandy bottom, and sunny skies make for a perfect SUP environment. You have the chance to see dolphins, fish, rays, birds and other wildlife while cruising the bay. Water front access behind the SPI Watersports location ensures easy access into the bay. Alternatively, if you are more experienced and adventurous, the Gulf of Mexico offers a great place to ride ocean surf with the stand up paddleboards. Requiring more balance and swimming ability, SUPs in the surf can be an incredible source of exercise and fun. Miles of open beaches on South Padre makes for endless possibilities.

Sunscreen, water, snack, and possibly wetsuit and booties are a good idea to bring with you on SUP lessons. We do sell all of these items and we do rent booties for $5 and wetsuits for $15. We provide the boards, paddles, and life jacket if necessary. You just need to be ready to learn, get wet, and be outside.

SUP does not take long to learn the basics. One hour worth of lessons will get you up to speed on the basic technique and balance. Advanced maneuvers such as riding waves, quick maneuvering, paddling moves, and others can be learned with hours of practice, but just cruising levels are easily obtainable.

Once you have mastered the basic skills required to effectively stand up paddleboard, you can take out a Stand Up Paddle Board Rental for the remainder of your stay. Now with your new and improved paddling skills, you can take a cruise up and down the bay or even in the ocean. Paddleboards are available to rent by the 2 hrs, half-day, day, or week. All necessary equipment is provided. Want to paddle in the gulf but have too small a vehicle? We have inflatable boards that fit in any car.