What better way to enjoy a summer day than to go paddleboarding? It’s a great way to get your exercise, but also have fun!

There are so many great paddleboarding options near Jacksonville, it’s hard to pick just one. That’s why we’re here to help you out.

Never paddleboarded before? That’s okay. The sport is rapidly growing, and many companies offer lessons, tours for all experience levels, and even rentals! Give it a shot before your friends beat you to it.

1. Jax Surf and Paddle – St John’s River

Jacksonville Surf and Paddle offers private lessons and public classes from beginners to advanced paddleboarders. Stand-up paddleboard (SUP) eco-tours along the beautiful St John’s River are also available. The river is known for its vast recreational opportunities and passes right through downtown Jacksonville.

#FrayLife Tip: Check out their surf and paddle training series for double the fun.

2. North Guana Outpost – Ponte Vedra Beach

This family-owned business does it all. They’re an outfitter store, that also offers paddleboard lessons, SUP yoga, and paddleboard pilates. NGO’s location allows for direct access to the scenic Guana River and is a short walk to the beach at Mickler’s Landing, where the paddleboarding lessons take place.

#FrayLife Tip: Make sure you’re well prepared for the water by checking out their gear available for purchase, before going out to paddleboard.

3. Amelia Island Paddle Surf Company – Amelia Island

Amelia Island is the perfect place to get away for a day. Located 45 minutes from Downtown Jacksonville, the island is 13 miles of beautiful beaches, full of wildlife, good food, entertainment, and shopping. Take in the island’s breathtaking views with a private SUP lesson, SUP yoga, or eco tour.

#FrayLife Tip: After paddleboarding, grab a drink at the state’s oldest saloon, the Palace Saloon. The bar apparently sold alcoholic ice cream during Prohibition, so why wouldn’t you want to go there?

4. All Wet Sports – Big Pottsburg Creek

All Wet Sports is located only ten minutes from Downtown Jacksonville and perfect for those wanting to sharpen their skills. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled because, during the one hour lesson, it is likely you will run into turtles, manatees, bald eagles, and ospreys.

#FrayLife Tip: All Wet Sports has paddleboards, kayaks, wakeboards, wakeskates, and kneeboard rentals for great prices.

5. Kayak St. Augustine – St. Augustine

Hop on I-95 S to go paddleboarding in the oldest city in the United States. The city’s incredible history should be more than enough to get you on the water. Enjoy a unique SUP dolphin experience with Kayak St. Augustine, or for the early birds out there, take a paddleboarding tour at sunrise.

#FrayLife Tip: Love to fish? Love to kayak? You can do both at the same time with kayak fishing. It is a great way to experience the diverse species of fish in St. Augustine, while simultaneously enjoying the magnificent view.  

Where do you like to get your SUP on? Let us know in the comments below, and make sure to tag us on social using #FrayLife next time you’re out and stop for a mid-paddle selfie.