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Paddleboarding gives you and your partner a way to exercise outside. You stand on separate boards and use long paddles to move through the water. Most spots rent the equipment if you do not own any. Pack water, sunscreen and snacks in a drawstring bag before you leave. The bag keeps items secure while you paddle. These eight outings cover different times of the day and types of activity. Follow the instructions in each one. The pro tip covers preparation. The twist changes the basic version in a small way.
Action
Go out early before the wind picks up. The water stays flat. Paddle along the shore at an easy pace. Point out birds or boats you see. Keep the trip under two hours for the first time.
Pro-Tip
Check the weather report the night before. Bring water and a hat. Wear sunscreen and tell someone your route before you leave.
Spicy Twist
Compete to see who can paddle the straightest line.
After dark
Action
Paddle to a small beach you can reach by water. Pull your boards onto the sand. Take out food from your bag and eat. Talk about the week while you sit by the water.
Pro-Tip
Pack food in waterproof containers. Bring a small blanket if you want to sit comfortably. Clean up everything before you leave the beach.
Spicy Twist
Feed each other small bites of fruit or snacks.
Action
Start your trip an hour before sunset. Paddle at a relaxed speed. Watch the sky change color. Stay near the launch area so you can return safely as it gets darker.
Pro-Tip
Carry a small flashlight or wear reflective clothing. Check tide times so you paddle with the current if possible. Keep the group close together.
Spicy Twist
Paddle close and share observations about the sunset colors.
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Find a map of the area and choose coves to explore. Paddle into them slowly. Look at the rocks and plants. Turn around when the water gets shallow or waves increase.
Pro-Tip
Use a waterproof map or phone app for navigation. Wear water shoes if you plan to get off the board. Stay aware of changing weather.
Spicy Twist
Stop in one cove to sit on the boards and talk.
After dark
Action
Locate a protected area with calm water. Stop paddling and face each other. Try basic yoga poses on the boards. Use your paddle for balance. Laugh when you fall in.
Pro-Tip
Practice the poses on solid ground first. Start with seated positions before trying to stand. Keep the session short if the water is choppy.
Spicy Twist
Help steady each other during the balance poses.
Action
Set up a short course using landmarks on shore. Paddle from start to finish as fast as you can. Rest between rounds. Keep score to see who wins more races.
Pro-Tip
Choose a course that avoids other boats. Use the same board type for fair races. Drink water between each run.
Spicy Twist
The winner chooses the next outing destination.
Action
Attach lights to your boards after dark. Paddle in a known area with no boat traffic. Look at the stars and listen to the water. Keep the trip short and stay together.
Pro-Tip
Get lights that are bright and waterproof. Inform a contact on land of your plans. Avoid strong currents at night.
Spicy Twist
Look for bioluminescence in the water if conditions are right.
Action
Plan a route that ends near a waterfall. Paddle toward the sound of falling water. Feel the mist when you get close. Rest there then paddle back the same way.
Pro-Tip
Measure the full distance on a map before you start. Bring extra water for longer trips. Check if the waterfall has strong currents.
Spicy Twist
Take turns choosing the pace on the way there and back.
Final Tip
Pick two or three of these outings to try over the next month. You will learn what you like and get better at balancing on the boards. The right preparation makes each trip more enjoyable.
Common Questions
Pack water, sunscreen, a phone in a dry case, and snacks. A drawstring bag works well to carry them on the board. Add a small repair kit for the boards.
Wear a leash attached to your board. Stay within sight of each other. Check the weather and let someone know where you are going. Start with calm water.
Board rentals usually cost between twenty and sixty dollars per person. Gas to the location and food add more. Most trips stay under one hundred fifty dollars total.
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