In this post, we cover all the best places to go paddleboarding in Vancouver BC. From easy paddles like Belcarra Picnic Area to more challenging and longer ones like Stanley Park and Whiskey Cove. This post had them all.
As with all our posts, we have created a Google Earth interactive map so you can plan your SUP trip with ease. We also have a post all about paddle apps that you can use to plan your adventures.
Make sure you are prepared for you next SUP Adventure by reading our post about the Best Paddle Apps.
Let's dive in and uncover the best paddleboarding spots in this remarkable region. Let the adventure begin.
Best Places to Paddleboard Inside Vancouver, BC
Jericho Beach To Spanish Banks
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8 km out and back
Paddle access points: all along Jericho Beach
Paddling hazards: boat traffic, wind, and tides
Embark on an 8 km paddleboarding journey starting at Jericho Beach in Vancouver. Begin your adventure from the clean shores of Jericho Beach and head out into the open waters. As you paddle towards the Spanish Banks viewpoint, take in the impressive coastal scenery. The panoramic views of the shoreline are a sight to behold. After soaking in the views, return towards Jericho Beach, enjoying the scenic sights once more on your way back. This 8 km route offers an enriching paddleboarding experience.
Need to rent a paddleboard? Check out Vancouver Water Adventures its the closest rental shop to Jericho Beach.
Stanley Park
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 10.4 km out and back
Paddle access points: Third Beach
Paddling hazards: boat traffic, wind, and tides
Take a 10.4 km round-trip paddleboarding journey starting and ending at Third Beach in Stanley Park. From Third Beach, you'll travel along the water, surrounded by natural beauty. You'll pass notable sights such as Siwash Rock and the historic Prospect Point Lighthouse, which stands atop rugged cliffs.
The route also includes landmarks such as the S.S. Empress of Japan Figurehead Replica and the unique Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture. You'll pass the picturesque Brockton Point Lighthouse and might hear the Nine O'Clock Gun.
These are just some of the sights you'll see on this route. On your way back to Third Beach, you can enjoy these sights again, creating a memorable paddleboarding experience in Stanley Park.
Need to rent a paddleboard? Check out Sharkfin SUP Rentals.
Dundarave Beach
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.2 km out and back
Paddle access points: Dundarave Beach
Paddling hazards: boat traffic, wind, and tides
The 5.2 km paddleboarding route from Dundarave Beach to Turner Creek is a peaceful journey worth considering. The calm waters and the quiet shoreline offer a calming backdrop. However, it's worth noting that this area can experience windy conditions. Paddleboarding in the wind can be challenging, especially for beginners.
Before heading out, check the wind conditions to ensure they are suitable for your skill level, It is suggested that if you a beginner you should no go out in anything over 5 knots. For more detailed information, consider reading our post about paddleboarding in the wind.
As you paddle towards Turner Creek, you'll find a quiet haven where the lush greenery and gentle water flow create a serene environment. This spot offers an opportunity to appreciate the interplay of land and water, and connect with nature. After spending some time at Turner Creek, the return paddle back to Dundarave Beach marks the end of the journey. This paddleboarding route provides memorable views and experiences throughout.
Need to rent a paddleboard? Check out Sharkfin SUP Rentals.
Deer Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 km loop
Paddle access points: Deer Lake Playground
Paddling hazards: low risk
Enthralling and cohesive 2 km loop paddleboarding adventure starting and ending at vibrant Deer Lake Playground in Vancouver. Glide through serene waters, captivated by breathtaking scenery and the rejuvenating ambiance. Reflect on the invigorating experience, cherishing serene moments and the profound connection to nature. This paddleboarding route offers a revitalizing and cohesive journey in the tranquil oasis of Deer Lake.
Looking for paddleboard rentals? Check out Sharkfin SUP Rentals.
Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Beach, fondly known as Kits Beach, situated in Vancouver, BC, is a stunning spot for paddleboarding enthusiasts. The beach offers a unique view of the city's skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the North Shore mountains. This makes it a pleasant sight. It provides ample paid parking facilities close to the beachfront, allowing easy access for those with equipment.
For those without their own gear, rental services are available on-site through Vancouver Water Adventures. Kits Beach is perfect for those who want adventure, enjoy sunsets on their board, or play beach volleyball.
False Creek
False Creek in Vancouver, BC, is an ideal location for paddleboarding enthusiasts. This bustling waterway, nestled in the heart of the city, offers scenic views of iconic skylines and large parks. Despite being a busy body of water frequented by motorboats and water sports lovers, it's well-suited for beginners due to its contained nature. Launching spots like Village Dock or Dragon Boat Dock near Science World are easily accessible, though parking might require some planning. A trip to Granville Island mid-paddle allows for a quick coffee break and photo ops. Paddleboarding in False Creek not only offers a unique water adventure but also a chance to appreciate the city of Vancouver from a different perspective.
Best Places to Paddleboard Just Outside Vancouver, BC - North Vancouver, Coquitlam
Buntzen Lake
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: max 10.5 km loop, min play at the beach
Paddle access points: Buntzen Lake Recreation Area
Paddling hazards: low risk
Explore a 10.5 km SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) loop at Buntzen Lake Recreation Area. Paddle peacefully along the calm waters of Buntzen Lake, nestled amidst lush greenery and towering mountains.Don't miss the Park and Garden Back where you can rest and choose a short trail to Swan Falls Viewpoint. This vantage point provides a stunning view of the falls, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Enjoy the peacefulness as you paddle back to Buntzen Lake Recreation Area, reflecting on the amazing sights you've seen.
Indian Arm
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8 km out and back
Paddle access points: Belcarra Picnic Area/ Peir or Whiskey Cove
Paddling hazards: bboat traffic, wind, and tides
A captivating 9 km SUP expedition from Whisky Cove to Jug Beach. Glide through serene waters, taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jug Beach, savor a delightful picnic, and absorb the panoramic views. Continue paddling through the serene Bedwell Bay, surrounded by untouched coastal scenery. Reflect on the remarkable sights and cherished moments as you complete the route back to Whisky Cove. This cohesive SUP experience seamlessly blends adventure, relaxation, and appreciation for nature's wonders.
Belcarra Picnic Area to Cod Rock
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 km out and back
Paddle access points: Belcarra Picnic Area/ Peir
Paddling hazards: boat traffic, winds
Experience the beauty of a scenic 2 km out and back SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) route that stretches from Belcarra Picnic Area to Cod Rock. This captivating journey is easily accessible and promises a delightful paddleboarding experience.
Commence your adventure at Belcarra Picnic Area, where you'll set off on your paddleboard, gliding along the calm waters. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings and embrace the natural beauty that surrounds you.
As you venture further along the route, your destination awaits at Cod Rock. This distinctive rock formation rises majestically from the water, creating a picturesque backdrop for your paddleboarding excursion. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views and capture the memories of this unique spot.
Paddle back to Belcarra Picnic Area after enjoying the serene beauty of Cod Rock. Reflect on the amazing sights encountered during your journey. This 2 km route provides an enjoyable SUP experience, letting you immerse in nature's wonders, starting from the Belcarra Picnic Area.
Sasamet Lake
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 km loop
Paddle access points: Sasamat Lake Parking Lot
Paddling hazards: low
3 km loop on your paddleboard, starting and finishing at the Sasamat Lake Parking Lot. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this picturesque route, which offers a refreshing and enjoyable SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) adventure.
Begin your paddleboarding journey from the Sasamat Lake Parking Lot, launching your board onto the calm waters. Let the serenity of the lake surround you as you glide along, taking in the peaceful ambiance.
As the scenic shoreline captivates you, embrace the tranquil atmosphere that envelops you while following the loop. Each paddle stroke takes you closer to the breathtaking natural beauty that awaits, forging a deeper connection with the outdoors.
Completing the loop brings you back to the Sasamat Lake Parking Lot, marking the end of your invigorating paddleboarding experience.
Deep Cove
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.2 km out and back
Paddle access points: Sasamat Lake Parking Lot
Paddling hazards: boat traffic, wind, and tides
Explore the stunning charm of Deep Cove with a captivating 5.2 km paddleboarding route starting at Panorama Park. Follow the route to Indian River Road Wharf and back.
Launch your paddleboard from Panorama Park, located in the heart of Deep Cove, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Paddle along the picturesque route, delighting in the scenic vistas and the rhythmic glide of the water beneath your board. While heading to Indian River Road Wharf, pause and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, appreciating the natural beauty of the area.
Then, paddle back to Panorama Park, cherishing the invigorating experience and the memories created along this cohesive paddleboarding expedition.
Rentals
There are several places in Vancouver where you can rent a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) to enjoy the local waterways. Here are a few options:
Ecomarine Paddlesport Centres: With multiple locations in Vancouver, Ecomarine offers SUP rentals for individuals and groups. They provide a range of board sizes and styles to accommodate different skill levels and preferences.
Deep Cove Kayak Centre: Located in North Vancouver's Deep Cove, this center offers SUP rentals along with kayaks. They have a variety of boards available and provide all the necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
Vancouver Water Adventures: Situated in Granville Island, Vancouver Water Adventures offers SUP rentals for exploring False Creek and English Bay. They have quality boards and provide brief orientations to ensure you're comfortable on the water.
Jericho Beach Kayak Centre: Located near Jericho Beach in Vancouver, this center offers SUP rentals along with kayak rentals. They have a range of boards suitable for all skill levels and provide instructions for beginners.
As we conclude our guide to paddleboarding in Vancouver, we hope you feel inspired to explore the stunning waterways of this coastal region. From tranquil lakes to scenic coastlines, Vancouver offers a diverse range of paddleboarding experiences for all skill levels. Remember to prioritize safety, respect the environment, and cherish the moments as you embark on your paddleboarding adventures. Enjoy the serenity, embrace the beauty, and create lasting memories on the water.
Now that you know where you are going we suggest you read our post on how to patch your paddleboard… Just in case.
Happy paddling!