Paddle Boarding

Paddle Boarding Activity Guide

The History of Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddle surfing, (SUP), is derived from its Polynesian roots, and the Hawaiian translation is Ku Hoe He'e Nalu, meaning "to stand, to paddle, to surf, a wave". Back in the 60's, Hawaiian watermen and surfers on the South Shore of Oahu, (the Beach Boys of Waikiki), started stand-up paddle surfing the lazy waves of Waikiki. At times they would take a camera so they could take pictures of tourists around the island learning to surf. This is where the term ‘Beach Boy Surfing’ originates, another name for stand-up paddle surfing.

In the early 2000's, Hawaiian surfers such as Dave Kalama, Brian Keaulana, Rick Thomas, Archie Kalepa and Laird Hamilton started SUP as an alternative way to train while the surf was down. As the years progressed they found themselves entering events such as the Moloka'i to O'ahu Paddleboard Race, and MÄ kaha's Big Board Surfing Classic. Now you can find stand-up paddle boarders in many of the outrigger and paddleboard races as participants within their own division.

Surfing Vs. Paddle Surfing
One difference between the modern idea of surfing and SUP, is that the latter does not require a wave. In SUP, one can paddle on the open ocean, in harbors, on lakes, rivers or any large body of water. One of the advantages of stand-up paddle boarding is the angle of visibility. Because of the standing height over the water, one can see both deeper into the water and further across the surface of the water, allowing better visuals of marine life above and beneath the ocean, harbors, lakes and coves.



Stand-Up Paddleboard Lessons and Rentals
Our stand-up paddleboard lessons and rentals are fun and invigorating, while emphasizing safety, technique and aquatic knowledge. Stand-up paddling is the fastest growing water sport, a no-impact activity that will positively effect your body and mind. Paddle boarding is easier than surfing and you are guaranteed to learn! About 95% of your lesson time will be spent in the water.

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