As the sport becomes increasingly popular, more and more people are taking up paddleboarding – and it’s not hard to see why. Nothing beats a peaceful glide across scenic waterways or tranquil ocean waves.
No matter if you’re a seasoned SUPing pro or you’re embarking on your first paddleboarding adventure, the New Forest offers some fantastic
opportunities to set out on the water and make the most of our gorgeous coastline and rivers.
Wherever you’re staying, our luxury New Forest cottages make the perfect base for exploring, whether that’s strolling through ancient woodlands or traversing the coast via paddleboard.
You’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to paddleboarding in the New Forest – so grab your board and paddle and head to some of these stunning SUPing spots!
Please remember to check tide times and remain conscious of the paddle boarding safety best practices before heading out.
The winding Beaulieu River runs through quintessential New Forest villages and quaint countryside, offering some stunning views and a chance to truly escape fast-paced modern life.
The privately owned tidal river is incredibly paddleboard-friendly as the calm waters make it ideal for beginners, and the diverse landscape provides plenty to see, including an array of wildlife.
The upriver route from Buckler’s Hard to Beaulieu village is particularly popular among paddleboarders. Alternatively, you can head downriver to the Solent. Please note that you may be unable to paddle some sections of the river at low tide.
Lymington River is another great spot for paddleboarders, offering varying conditions for different skill levels. Paddle through the charming Georgian town of Lymington, past bobbing boats and into the Solent.
Here, you get the best of both worlds, with opportunities to explore river waterways and the coastal surroundings.
For a super gentle and scenic paddle boarding experience, head to Keyhaven. The sheltered waters protect you from stronger currents, providing smooth waters, ideal for beginners.
Paddle your way around the marshes to get a chance to spot the various bird species that are local to the area. The marshes are a haven for wildlife, giving you plenty of sightings as you glide along. The best time to paddle here is high tide.
For another sheltered spot, visit Calshot Lagoon, which sits behind Calshot Spit and offers a calm paddle boarding experience for those seeking a leisurely pace. The surrounding scenery of the Solent and the Isle of Wight makes for a lovely backdrop.
More experienced paddleboarders can head out from the other side of the spit for more challenging sea conditions.
For a stunning beachy spot, check out Hordle Cliffs at Milford on Sea, where you can enjoy views of rugged cliffs and beach huts on one side and panoramic views out to the Isle of Wight on the other.
Paddleboarding here at low tide is great for families and beginners, thanks to the shallow waters and the sand bar that appears. Head here on calmer days as currents can get quite strong and the waves get choppy as the tide comes in.
If you’re new to paddleboarding and would like some guidance from the experts, it’s worth heading to an activity centre or specialist paddleboarding school to get your bearings. Here, you’ll also be able to easily hire equipment if you don’t have your own board.
● New Forest Water Park: Paddleboarding takes place on the lake next to the aquapark. You can hire a board or bring your own, plus there are loads of other water-based activities to explore.
● Lymington Sea Water Baths: Paddleboarding sessions are available in a section of the pool. Sessions are supervised but not instructed, so it’s all about having fun and giving it a go.
● Calshot Activity Centre: The centre offers a range of paddlesports, allowing you to explore the gentle waters of the lagoon as well as more challenging waters.
● SUP Styles: Tours and paddleboard experiences based on the
Lymington River, including taster sessions and bespoke packages.
For more watery adventures, you can check out our guide on where to gosailing in the New Forest.
Lauren is in charge of all social media marketing at New Forest Escapes. She and her husband are keen paddlers. He loves Christchurch Quay, but Lauren loves going out from Keyhaven.
“We blow up the board on the side of the road where there is a bit of car parking (it can easily get busy here), and we go from the wooden bridge.
Access here is free, and you can go up to Hurst in about 40 minutes, depending on the wind and tides. I can’t board when it’s wavy, so I need a river or flat water. I also love Hordle Cliffs when the sea is still.”
“I love going up the Beaulieu River from Bucklers Hard. I pay £10 to park and access the slipway. Parking is about 80m from the slipway, so you have to carry the board a bit. You’ll go straight into the deeper water with the boats in the harbour.
It feels quite special to be putting in at this historical place where boats have been built for over 200 years. Nelson’s favourite warship, the Agamemnon, was built here. The museum has some of his baby clothes and models of
some of the famous ships built here. The Master Builders pub is great for a pint afterwards.”
“I love the beach just below Hordle Cliffs. When the tide goes out, there’s a sandbar that is part exposed, which makes for a (adult) waist-deep channel that is perfect for children to play on the board. The sand is golden, and dogs are welcome all year. Do check tide times – you need to be there at the lowest tides.”
Love the idea of spending more time by the water?
Discover our New Forest holiday cottages by the sea and book your perfect stay today.read more about them here.
