For paddle enthusiasts living in or visiting Los Angeles, the paddleboarding adventures don’t stop with summer. With Paddle Method, based in Marina del Rey, paddling is a year-round activity, bringing unique experiences across every season. From November to March, you can witness the magnificent migration of gray whales as they journey along the California coast. Late summer through early winter offers clear waters along the Malibu coast, rich with sea life, making it an ideal time to connect with nature on a paddleboard.
At this point you might be thinking…what are the best places to SUP in LA? Here’s a quick list:
The Best Paddle Boarding Spots in Southern California
Exploring Southern California on a paddle board introduces you to its breathtaking coastal beauty and diverse marine life. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned paddler, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Below, discover some of the top sites for paddle boarding in this sun-kissed paradise.
Discover San Diego’s Coastal Gems
La Jolla Cove Marine Sanctuary
Spend a day paddling through La Jolla Cove to experience one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems. On a clear day, visibility can reach 30 feet, revealing a stunning underwater world with sea lions, dolphins, and even leopard sharks that are friendly to humans. For the adventurers, a 3-mile round trip to Scripps Pier provides a more challenging experience.
Coronado Island
Perfect for beginners, Coronado Island offers calm waters and beautiful views. Launch from Glorietta Bay’s sandy beaches and paddle towards the iconic Coronado Bridge. Enjoy a refreshing swim, engage in SUP yoga, or admire the majestic yachts and naval ships nearby.
Mission Bay
Known as San Diego’s “water wonderland,” Mission Bay is ideal for leisurely paddling. With calm waters, it’s a great spot for outings with friends, family, and pets. Fishing enthusiasts will find an abundance of fish like halibut and bass to catch.
Explore the Beauty of Orange County On a Paddleboarding Adventure
Newport Back Bay
This serene estuary at Newport Beach is a hidden gem, perfect for families and couples. As you paddle, enjoy the sight of migratory birds and admire the reserve’s untouched beauty. It’s a soothing escape from the bustling luxury of Newport’s coastal life.
Discover the Scenic Beauty of Newport Back Bay
Newport Back Bay offers a unique paddle boarding experience that combines both breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity. Nestled just inland from the lavish Newport Beach, this hidden estuary provides a serene escape, perfect for all ages.
A Natural Haven
The area is a vital ecological reserve, offering a gentle and picturesque paddle through calm waters. This makes it particularly ideal for couples seeking a tranquil outing or families looking for a leisurely adventure.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
While navigating the back bay, you’ll witness a dazzling array of bird species that call this estuary home. It serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds traveling from distant regions like Alaska and Canada. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of rare birds such as the light-footed clapper rail and the California least tern.
Rich Marine Life
The bay is also teeming with diverse marine life, boasting around 80 species of fish. This aquatic diversity enhances the experience, offering more than just a waterway but a vibrant ecosystem to explore.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a birdwatching aficionado, or simply someone looking to unwind in a stunning natural setting, Newport Back Bay provides a spectacular backdrop for paddle boarding.
Laguna Beach State Marine Reserve
Paddle along Laguna Beach’s pristine shoreline, where marine-protected waters teem with wildlife. With a bit of luck, you might spot dolphins or even a gentle whale passing close to the shore. The area’s natural beauty is a testament to the importance of preservation.
Doheny Beach, Dana Point
Ideal for those looking to try SUP surfing, Doheny Beach offers gentle waves and a welcoming community. Be aware of seasonal restrictions and plan ahead for the best experience. It’s a spot that combines family fun with the thrill of catching waves.
What Makes Doheny Beach Ideal for SUP Surfing?
Doheny Beach is a standout destination for those eager to dive into stand up paddle (SUP) surfing. This spot is a gem on the coast, perfectly blending beginner-friendly conditions with a vibrant beach atmosphere.
Gentle Rolling Waves
One of the key reasons Doheny Beach is perfect for SUP surfing is its gentle, rolling waves. These conditions are ideal, especially for beginners, providing a forgiving and enjoyable environment to practice and improve skills without the intimidation of large, crashing surf.
Welcoming Community
The beach is renowned for its positive and supportive crowd. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned paddler, you’ll find a warm, encouraging community ready to offer tips and celebrate your progress. This camaraderie makes the experience more enriching and less daunting for newcomers.
Convenient Amenities
For those planning extended visits, Doheny offers ‘dry camping’ spots suitable for recreational vehicles. This feature is incredibly appealing for surf enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beach lifestyle without the hassle of finding off-site accommodations – perfect for a real paddle boarding adventure.
SUP-Specific Zones
While surfboards are welcome across the entire stretch of Doheny Beach, SUP boards are typically directed to the area south of The Hammer at San Juan Creek, especially during peak seasons. It’s always wise to check with lifeguards about these restrictions to ensure you’re paddling in designated areas, ensuring both safety and enjoyment.
Notable Mention
Doheny’s charm isn’t just in its physical attributes. Its iconic status, marked by its mention in the Beach Boys’ hit “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” adds a nostalgic layer that attracts surf enthusiasts from all over, ready to ride its famous waves.
Plan Ahead
Given its popularity, making a reservation ahead of your visit is recommended. This ensures you not only secure a spot but also allows you to inquire about any SUP-specific restrictions during your stay.
Doheny Beach doesn’t just offer a place to practice SUP surfing; it promises an experience wrapped in gentle waves, community spirit, and memorable surfing culture.
Enjoy Los Angeles Paddle Adventures
Malibu
Famed for its exceptional surfing conditions, Malibu is a hotspot for skilled SUP surfers. Only recommended for the experienced, the waves here provide thrilling rides. Respect local surf etiquette to ensure a harmonious experience with fellow riders.
Rancho Palos Verdes
Enjoy paddling alongside stunning coastal views at Palos Verdes. Start from Pelican Cove to explore thriving tide pools, then head south to Terranea Beach. In the right season, you may witness the awe-inspiring sight of migrating whales. This is a perfect place for paddleboarding adventures.
Venice Canal Historic District
Experience a slice of Venice, Italy, in Southern California. These charming canals offer a quick but scenic paddle through a historic residential area. It’s a unique venture for paddlers who appreciate a blend of culture and tranquility.
With these diverse locations, Southern California stands out as a premier destination for paddle boarding enthusiasts. Each spot offers a unique experience that’s sure to create lasting memories.
Each season and location reveals a different side of Southern California’s amazing marine ecosystem, and Paddle Method is here to guide you through it all. We offer lessons, tours, and rentals, and we’re here to get you a front-row seat to these incredible paddleboarding adventures.
But one event that is amazing to see happens to be bioluminescence!
Discover the Magic of Bioluminescent Paddle Boarding
You’ve probably seen images. You’ve likely watched a few videos. But imagine what it would feel like to glide over dark water on a paddleboard as it glows with a mysterious blue light. Each paddle stroke lights up the water next to your feet, glowing blue, and swirling with each pull. The night is dark but the water lights up the night. Now these are true paddleboarding adventures!
This isn’t a scene from a movie – it’s a real phenomenon happening several times a year along the Southern California coast, and it’s all thanks to bioluminescent organisms that light up the waves at night. Recently, social media has been abuzz with videos capturing this otherworldly glow, and we’ve linked a few viral TikToks here so you can see it for yourself.
Visit paddlemethod.com to plan and book your next paddle.
Or contact us at info@paddlemethod or call/text Tim at 310-7707291
Paddle Boarding Adventures Through Bioluminescence
Paddleboarding is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the magic of nature and in this case, bioluminescence. As you skim the surface, every stroke of your paddle and each ripple of water around your board causes the glowing organisms to light up, creating a breathtaking sight. The best part? Since you are standing on a paddle board instead of sitting close to the water in a kayak, everything is right in front of you to see. Nothing is missed.
At Paddle Method, we provide everything you need to safely navigate these enchanting waters, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler. With us, you’ll have access to guided tours that let you explore Santa Monica Bay’s waters while truly experiencing paddleboarding adventures.
What to Expect on the Water at Night
Paddleboarding adventures at night are a completely different experience from the day. Marina del Rey, and Santa Monica Bay at dusk or after dark has a calming and almost surreal quality, made even more magical when the water starts to glow with bioluminescence.
You’ll glide through dark, glassy waters, each stroke lighting up in electric blue. It’s a serene yet exhilarating experience, offering an up-close connection to the ocean that’s difficult to find elsewhere. Just be prepared to paddle quietly, soaking in the sounds of the ocean and the glowing path your board leaves behind.
Essential Gear for a Bioluminescent Paddle
To make the most of your nighttime paddle, you’ll need a few essentials to stay safe and comfortable. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Water Shoes: Keeping a good grip is essential for nighttime paddling, so we recommend sturdy water shoes that provide traction and protect your feet. Here are some of our top picks for water shoes designed for paddleboarding adventures:
2. Headlamp or Waterproof Flashlight: Visibility is key when paddling at night, and while the glow of bioluminescence is mesmerizing, you’ll want a reliable light source to navigate safely.
3. Dry Bag: A waterproof bag can store your essentials, keeping everything dry while you’re out on the water.
That’s it! It’s that simple, safe, and most importantly…FUN!
Your Bioluminescent Paddleboarding Adventures
If you’re ready to see the magic of bioluminescence for yourself, here are a few planning tips:
- Choose the Right Time: Bioluminescence is best seen during dark nights, so plan your trip around the new moon phase when the sky is darkest.
- Check the Forecast: Calm, clear nights are ideal for bioluminescence sightings. Avoid nights when the water is rough or the wind is high.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Marina del Rey, experiencing bioluminescence on a paddle board is a must-add to your list.
Love to paddle and want to meet cool people, paddling in cool places, and seeing cool things?
Join our club! The PMC is dedicated to year-round, active paddlers who want to paddle often, build skills along with our paddling community, and see the benefit of working with a professional paddle coach and guide. Make the most of where you live and paddle!