10 Best Places For Paddle Board Rentals in San Diego

Paddle boarding has taken the San Diego water sports scene by storm in recent years. Nothing beats hitting the open ocean on your board and seeing where the water takes you. Plus, it’s amazing exercise, which we all need to stay fit and healthy.

Slowly but surely, paddle board rentals in San Diego have become readily available. But where’s the best place to learn? Well, we’ve compiled a list of the top SUP rental locations in the city to give you an idea of where to start.

Paddle Board Rentals In San Diego

Mission Bay Paddle Boarding Rentals 

Not only is Mission Bay one of the biggest artificial salt bays in the world, but it’s also a great place to get a paddle boarding rental and lessons if you have never tried it out before or prefer a guided tour. It has 20 miles of breathtaking coastline and is only a few miles from downtown San Diego. 

Since Mission Bay isn’t directly connected to the sea and there aren’t many waves at all, it’s the perfect place for anyone who has never paddle boarded before.

Mission Bay has so many wonderful locations to check out once you get your stand up paddle board rental. Make your way to the likes of the calm Bonita Cove and Fiesta Island.

Paddle Boarding in La Jolla 

Paddle alongside La Jolla’s rugged sea cliffs and spot unique sea life, such as leopard sharks, while discovering parts of this beautiful coastline you’ve never heard of.

The waves at La Jolla vary depending on the weather. Remember that La Jolla is a popular surfing location too, so you’re best to do a lesson or two if you’re planning to going far out to sea. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of some sea lions if you’re lucky.

Paddle Boarding in Coronado 

Just across the water from downtown San Diego is the stunning Coronado Island, another well-liked place among stand up paddle boarding lovers. With gentle waves and many companies offering stand up paddle board rentals, this is the ideal place for beginners.

Join a bay tour and go under the famous Coronado Bridge or learn how to read the waves in a lesson. 

Many people choose to paddle board at Coronado Island because of its dazzling beaches and views of San Diego. You better bring your GoPro because the shots you’ll get will be incredible.

Point Loma/Liberty Station

What once was a Naval Training Center has recently turned into a vibrant area filled with bars, restaurants, and fun activities, including paddle boarding. 

If you have a dog, you’ll be delighted to know that puppy-boarding is offered. Depart from the beach and paddle into the sunset with your furry friend.

Don’t worry about anyone struggling to swim, as doggy and human life vests will be provided beforehand. Plus, the sea here is known to be a lot calmer than other locations, making this a great spot for SUP rentals in San Diego.

Agua Hedlonda Lagune Carlsbad

You may want to take your kids somewhere to learn paddle boarding where there are little to no waves. If that’s the case, the Agua Hedlonda Lagune Carlsbad is a great option. This location provides calm waters for those looking to dip their toes into the sport, which every novice needs when starting out.

You’re better off reserving your paddle board rental online before going to the Agua Hedlonda Lagune Carlsbad, they tend to sell out, especially if the weather is nice. Before you set off, you’ll be given a life jacket, so those who don’t know how to swim can still participate.

You’ll be quick to realize why this is one of the best spots for paddle board rentals in San Diego.

Shelter Island Shore Park

The tiny Shelter Island Shore Park is another terrific place in San Diego to go paddle boarding. This location offers tranquil waters and a blend of island and city views. It’s embedded between the sea and the metropolis, which is nothing to complain about.

Shelter Island Shore Park is great because people of all skill sets can participate. While newbies can learn their craft beside the park’s calm waterways, experts can paddle their way around the other side of the island, where the open ocean awaits. 

Lake Hodges

About 30 miles outside San Diego is beautiful Lake Hodges, a massive reservoir providing paddle boarders a different kind of experience. The lake has over 27 miles of space, giving you endless areas to discover.

Since it’s a lake, you’re guaranteed relatively still water, even on the windiest days. The only downside to paddle boarding at Lake Hodges is that you can only do so Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from February to October. Additionally, the lake is closed on the third Wednesday of every month, limiting your options.

You’ll find a rental shop at the lake, but once the boards are gone, they’re gone. Plan to bring your own if you have one.

Tourmaline Surf Park

Located on the northern part of Pacific Beach is an access point popular among surfers, Tourmaline Surf Park. 

Tourmaline Surf Park is more for hardcore paddle boarders, as the waves here can get extremely high. Swimming in this part of Pacific Beach is forbidden unless, of course, you fall off your board into the water.

After you’ve had your fun, find a spot on the sand to watch the surfers catch some waves. You’ll be blown away when you see how good some of them are.

Oceanside Harbor

Oceanside Harbor is the epitome of what a water sports location in San Diego should be. Think long beaches, a historic wooden bridge, and a selection of paddle board rental stores.

Beginners will particularly enjoy the inner area of the harbor. This is where the water remains serene and the seals like to play. The more experienced boarders can head to the outer jetty to try their luck with the Pacific Ocean’s wrath.

If visiting San Diego from December to April, you might see whales which swim down from Baja, California. An experience you don’t want to miss!

Lake San Marcos

Known as one of the more scenic places to go paddle boarding in San Diego, Lake San Marcos is a secret location not many know about, which adds to its beauty.

This quiet location, with still waters, is in the North County area of San Diego, around 45 minutes from the city center.

It’s actually on private property, and you must pay $15 a day to use it. Outside boards are not allowed, you must hire one at the lake. If you plan to bring your own, you’re better off paddling at a different location on this list.

Otherwise, for those seeking a stand up paddle board rental in San Diego without all the crowds, this is a great spot.

San Diego paddle board rentals are everywhere. Your only job is to choose the location that suits you. Determine what your skill set is. Is it your first time? Or have you been out at sea before? Then you can choose what type of experience you’re looking for. 

Where will you test your skills at paddle boarding?

Last Updated on May 24, 2023 by Maria Haase