Best Places to Paddleboard in the USA

Given all the diverse landscapes, climates, and geography that the USA boasts, it is definitely one of the world’s best places to paddleboard. Whether you’re on the hunt for scenic views, or prefer to stay a little closer to the city, here are five amazing destinations across the US of A that’ll deepen your appreciation for paddleboarding!

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

With crystal clear waters, stunning mountainous backdrops, and good weather almost all year round, Lake Tahoe is one of the most picturesque paddleboarding destinations in the USA. Consisting of 191-square miles of glassy water, Lake Tahoe is the ideal spot for exploration, long-distance cruising and learning the ropes, if you’re a beginner. A short drive away from Reno, Nevada, and Sacramento, California, Lake Tahoe is conveniently accessible from multiple states.

Depending on where your interests lie, there are several notable spots to visit. Sand Harbor is the perfect launching point for some family fun as it features friendly and shallow waters, ideal for first-timers! For the best mountain scenery, you’ll want to explore Carnelian Bay. If peace and quiet is more your thing, take the extra time to hike over to Emerald Bay, where you’ll have a far more private and tranquil experience.

Just note, you’ll want to dress warm as it’s usually cool throughout the year.

Annual days of clear weather: 249
Major cities nearby: 30 Minutes to Carson City, 2 hours to Sacramento
Can you drive at the location: Yes
Paddleboard Rentals: Yes

2. Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona

Lake Powell is one of the best places to paddleboard for canyon views, and stunning red, rocky landscapes. Taking up an area of 250 square miles, Lake Powell is 186 miles long and contains nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline; longer than the entire west coast of the USA combined! It’s easy to get lost in the alien, desert landscape with over 96 major canyons to explore, including some that reach 15-20 miles in length.

With calm waters, Lake Powell is ideal for beginners to fall in love with paddleboarding, while enjoying totally unique scenery. Best of all, the lake is actually relatively isolated, offering plenty of privacy to those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Boasting plenty of sun and warm weather, Lake Powell is one of the best places to paddleboard if you’re looking to work up a sweet tan!

Annual days of clear weather: 264
Major cities nearby: 2.5 hours to St. George, 2 hours to Flagstaff
Can you drive at the location: Yes
Paddleboard Rentals: Yes

3. Bear Glacier Lagoon

For a truly unforgettable experience, head to Alaska and explore the stunning, clear waters of Bear Glacier Lagoon. With the landscape dotted with little islands and towering icebergs, it can be rather tricky to navigate. However, these waters are packed with surprises, potentially offering the once in a lifetime chance to encounter unique wildlife like whales, seals, and even bears in their natural habitat. While this is one of the best places to paddleboard for touring, it is definitely not a recommended location for beginners.

Due to the frigid conditions, you’ll need a very high-quality wetsuit to keep you warm. You’ll also require a very stable paddleboard since you definitely do not want to fall into the icy waters. Though Bear Glacier Lagoon is difficult to reach, even at the best of times, you can eventually make your way out toward the Pacific Ocean for a truly unforgettable experience.

Annual days of clear weather: 86
Major cities nearby: half an hour by flight to Juneau
Can you drive at the location: Yes
Paddleboard Rentals: No

4. Caddo Lake, Texas/Louisiana

If you’ve had your fill of clear waters, Caddo Lake is one of the best places to paddleboard in bayou country. Among the few natural lakes in Texas, Caddo Lake is the second-biggest, and home to scenery that is equal parts mystical and eerie. True adventurers will fall in love with the idea of having 25,000 acres of water to explore. Don’t think it’ll be easy, however, as you’ll likely find yourself having to navigate through tricky terrain like tightly-packed Cyprus trees and murky waters.

Be sure to also keep an eye out for the local wildlife, which includes bobcats, gators, and eagles! If you’re excited by the mystical side of Caddo Lake, keep your eyes peeled for Bigfoot, as many locals believe that the elusive folk monster lives somewhere within the lake’s vicinity.

It would be best to visit Caddo Lake sooner than later as a number of construction projects are disrupting the lake’s balance and shrinking its size. Nonetheless, there’s plenty to see on this unique bayou paddleboard adventure.

Annual days of clear weather: 211
Major cities nearby: half an hour from Shreveport and 3 hours from Dallas
Can you drive at the location: Yes
Paddleboard Rentals: Yes

5. Hudson River, New York

When thinking of the best places to paddleboard, most people wouldn’t imagine that New York would have much to offer. Conjuring up connotations with sprawling cities and monikers like The Big Apple, most people see New York as a business destination rather than one for a great paddleboard adventure. However, the Hudson River offers a paddleboard experience like no other, presenting the chance to get up close and personal with museum boats, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Battery Park, Chrysler Building, and all the other must-see sights of downtown New York!

However, it should be noted that this adventure is not for beginners and should only be tackled by experienced paddlers. Those up for the challenge will be able to take in the usually-crowded sights far more peacefully.

Annual days of clear weather: 233
Major cities nearby: Direct access from New York City
Can you drive at the location: Yes
Paddleboard Rentals: Yes

Your Perfect Paddleboarding Pilgrimage Awaits

Finding the best places to paddleboard in the US is a difficult task, only because there are so many great locations to choose from! With amazing scenery ranging from crystal-clear lakes to desert canyons, winter wonderlands, swampy bayous, and even major metropolises, people of all skill levels can pursue their passion for paddleboarding in a setting that truly speaks to them.