Paddle over clear water, poke into quiet coves and see the Pembrokeshire coastline from a different angle. SUP is about the easiest way to get out on the water.
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest-growing water sports in the UK, and Pembrokeshire is one of the best places in Wales to try it. You stand on a wide, stable board and move yourself along with a single paddle, exploring coastline, coves and inlets at your own pace. On flat water it's calm and pretty relaxing, and it gets properly exciting once you start heading along the coast into more exposed water.
The sheltered bays and harbours around St David's make ideal paddleboarding locations. The water's clear over sandy and rocky seabeds, the cliffs are big, and you'll regularly see wildlife: seals, jellyfish and seabirds all turn up often. On calm days the visibility in this part of Pembrokeshire is really good and you can see straight to the bottom as you paddle.
Guided SUP sessions are ideal for beginners. You'll learn the basics of balance, paddling technique and turning on flat water before heading out to explore. The boards are large, stable inflatable SUPs that are very forgiving, and most people are standing and paddling comfortably within ten minutes. If you've done it before, guided coastal tours let you go further afield with a local guide who knows the area. It's a good one for families, couples, or anyone after a gentler way to see the Pembrokeshire coastline.
The practical bits worth knowing before your SUP session.
Sessions typically last around 2 hours, including instruction and time on the water.
Small groups with a qualified guide. Typically up to 8 paddlers per session.
Low fitness requirement. SUP is gentle on the body; the main challenge is balance, not strength.
Board, paddle, wetsuit and buoyancy aid all included. Bring a swimsuit, towel and shoes that can get wet.
April through October. Summer has the flattest water and warmest conditions, which suits beginners.
Children aged 8 and over can take part. Younger children may be able to share a board with an adult.
Guided paddleboarding at St David's in the north and Saundersfoot in the south.
Guided SUP sessions with experienced local instructors.
None at all. Guided sessions include full instruction on balance, paddling technique and safety. The boards are wide and stable, and most people are standing comfortably within the first ten minutes. You'll start on flat, sheltered water before exploring further.
Probably at least once, and that's part of the fun. The water is clean and you'll be wearing a wetsuit and buoyancy aid, so falling in is no big deal. The boards are easy to get back onto, and your guide will help if needed. Most people stay dry after the first few minutes once they find their balance.
Wear a swimsuit underneath and bring a towel and warm clothes for afterwards. Shoes that can get wet are useful for getting to and from the water. Sun cream and a drink are a good idea. All SUP equipment is provided by the operator.
You should be comfortable in the water, but you don't need to be a strong swimmer. You'll be wearing a buoyancy aid throughout and sessions take place on sheltered water. That said, you will likely get wet, so being relaxed around water is important. If in doubt, check with the provider when booking.
Children aged 8 and over are welcome on most sessions. Younger children may be able to ride on the front of an adult's board (check with the provider). SUP is one of the most family-friendly water activities around, and kids tend to pick it up quickly.
SUP is weather-dependent, and wind is the main factor. Sessions need relatively calm conditions, so strong winds may mean a change of location to more sheltered water or a postponement. Your provider will contact you in advance and offer rescheduling or a full refund if conditions aren't suitable.
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