Hop on your board and ride the wave of excitement as we paddle through the world’s coolest spots!
From the sun-kissed beaches of Australia to the scenic lakes of Canada, find out where paddleboarding reigns supreme.
Are you pumped to see the leaders of the pack? Let’s make a splash!
Countries where paddleboarding is most popular:
- United States (particularly California and Florida)
- Australia
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Brazil
- New Zealand
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- South Africa
- Spain
Table of Contents
#1 United States
Paddleboarding thrives in the United States, especially in coastal states like California and Florida, where the blend of year-round sunshine and an extensive array of beaches and waterways creates an ideal environment for the sport.
It’s a popular pastime that combines recreation with fitness, resonating with the American spirit of adventure and love for the outdoors.
#2 Australia
Australia’s extensive coastlines and passion for water sports make it a paddleboarding hotspot. The country’s culture is deeply intertwined with the ocean, making paddleboarding a natural choice for Australians.
With its favorable climate and scenic waterways, paddleboarding in Australia offers both a serene escape and a full-body workout, appealing to beachgoers and fitness enthusiasts alike.
#3 Canada
In Canada, paddleboarding has found its niche despite a colder climate. Gorgeous lakes, rivers, and coastal regions provide ample opportunities for paddleboarding, especially in the warmer months.
Canadians embrace the sport for its tranquility and the connection to nature, making it popular for both leisurely pursuits and as a challenging, adventurous activity.
#4 United Kingdom
Paddleboarding’s popularity in the United Kingdom continues to rise, with its varied and picturesque waterways – from the coastlines of Cornwall to the lochs of Scotland.
The UK’s increasingly diverse outdoor activity scene makes paddleboarding a favored choice for locals and tourists seeking a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the British Isles.
#5 Brazil
Paddleboarding in Brazil has seen a surge in popularity, particularly along its vast coastline, which offers ideal conditions for both stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and paddleboard racing.
The sport appeals to Brazil’s beach-centric lifestyle, with cities like Rio de Janeiro and Florianópolis becoming hubs for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Numerous events and competitions are held throughout the year, drawing both locals and tourists to Brazil’s scenic waterways and beaches.
#6 New Zealand
New Zealand’s diverse and picturesque landscapes make it a prime location for paddleboarding. The country’s extensive coastline, lakes, and rivers provide perfect settings for both recreational paddling and competitive events.
Paddleboarding has become a popular way for Kiwis to explore the natural beauty of their surroundings, with a growing number of schools and rental shops supporting the sport’s expansion across the country.
#7 France
In France, paddleboarding has seen a surge in popularity, thanks to the country’s diverse and scenic waterways, including the Mediterranean coast and the rivers in the countryside.
Cities like Biarritz have become hubs for enthusiasts, reflecting the sport’s compatibility with the French lifestyle, that values outdoor activities and a connection with nature. The growth of local events and clubs fuels the sport’s popularity.
#8 Germany
Germany’s interest in paddleboarding thrives on its expansive network of lakes and rivers, making it an ideal destination for paddle enthusiasts. Cities like Hamburg and Munich are pivotal in this upsurge, with the sport fitting seamlessly into the Germans’ appreciation for outdoor recreational activities.
Germany’s hosting of paddleboarding events and festivals further demonstrates the sport’s integration into its active lifestyle culture.
#9 Italy
Paddleboarding complements Italy’s extensive coastline and picturesque lakes, where the sport is steadily growing.
Iconic locations like Lake Garda and the Italian Riviera offer perfect settings for paddleboarding, melding the country’s profound appreciation for its natural beauty with a love for aquatic sports. The Italian flair for leisure and the sport’s accessibility contribute to paddleboarding’s increasing popularity.
#10 South Africa
In South Africa, paddleboarding is gaining momentum as a favorite water sport, especially in coastal cities like Cape Town and Durban.
The country’s rich marine environments offer superb opportunities for ocean paddleboarding, while its inland water bodies cater to those looking for calmer waters. South Africa hosts several paddleboarding races and festivals each year, which celebrate the sport and its connection to the maritime lifestyle.
#11 Spain
Spain’s extensive coastline and pleasant climate make it an ideal destination for paddleboarding. The sport has grown significantly in popularity, with numerous beaches and coastal towns, such as those along the Costa Brava and the Canary Islands, offering excellent conditions for paddlers.
Spain’s thriving paddleboarding scene is supported by a variety of schools and rental facilities that encourage participation among both locals and tourists. The country also hosts various national and international paddleboarding competitions, reflecting its active outdoor culture.
FAQ
Which country is Paddleboarding played the most?
Paddleboarding is played the most in the United States, where the sport enjoys widespread popularity due to its coastal culture and favorable weather conditions for most of the year.
Which country watches Paddleboarding the most?
The United States watches Paddleboarding the most, with large audiences drawn to competitive events like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) races and a strong interest in recreational paddleboarding.
Where was Paddleboarding originally played?
Paddleboarding was originally played in Hawaii. Here’s a link to our Paddleboarding history article. The sport, as we know it today, evolved from the surfing traditions of indigenous Hawaiians, later gaining popularity worldwide.
