Get ready for a splash! The first UK multi-event SUPerchamps competition, welcoming beginners through to elite paddlers in the English Riviera – the home of Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
Set against the backdrop of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, with it’s sheltered bays, palm tree lined shores and temperate micro-climate, this 2 day event from the 5th – 7th September 2025 will include a festival of stand up paddle board races, activities, demonstrations and presentations.
And if that ‘wets’ your appetitie, Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Cup 2026 is coming to our beautiful English Riviera from 24 to 28 June 2026. Paddle UK has chosen our stunning coastline to host this major international event, set to attract 200 elite athletes and up to 1,000 paddlers, making it a UK record-breaker for paddle boarding competitions.
Discover the Joy of SUP and Paddle Your Way to Wellbeing:
SUP, is rapidly gaining popularity as a fantastic water sport. Standing on a large, stable board, you use a paddle to navigate the water. It’s surprisingly accessible, suitable for all ages and fitness levels and offers a unique way to explore our stunning coastline while enjoying a great workout.
- Full-Body Workout: SUP engages muscles throughout your entire body, including your core for balance, arms and shoulders for paddling, and legs for stability. It provides a comprehensive workout without feeling like strenuous exercise.
- Improved Balance and Coordination: Standing and balancing on the board engages your core, significantly improving your overall balance and coordination
- Increased Strength and Endurance: Regular paddle boarding builds strength and endurance, particularly in your back, shoulders, arms and core. This increased strength supports better posture and overall physical function.
- Enhanced Joint Stability: The act of balancing on the board activates small muscles in your feet and lower legs, which can help improve joint stability and even aid in rehabilitation from conditions like plantar fasciitis.
- Stress Reduction: Being out on the water in a natural environment has a calming effect on the mind. Furthermore, the rhythmic paddling and the serene surroundings help to lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Mindfulness and Presence: SUP requires focus and concentration to maintain balance and navigate, naturally encouraging mindfulness. As a result, this allows you to be present in the moment, clear your mind of distractions, and achieve a meditative state.
- Opportunity for Social Connection: Joining local SUP groups or participating in events offers opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
- Connection with Nature: Paddle boarding provides a unique opportunity to connect with the natural environment. Consequently, this has been proven to have positive effects on mental health, reducing anxiety and improving mood.
Your Local SUP Hotspots on the English Riviera:
Inspired to try paddleboarding before the World Cup arrives? Fortunately, you’re in luck! The English Riviera boasts fantastic locations for getting started. Moreover, these spots are all within easy reach of Paignton, Brixham, Torquay, and Kingswear, offering a range of environments from sheltered beaches to calmer sections of the river estuaries. Always prioritise safety, check local conditions, and consider hiring from reputable local providers who can offer advice and equipment. Enjoy exploring the English Riviera from the water:
- Goodrington Sands (Paignton). A local and visitor favourite with calm, sheltered waters perfect for beginners. Here, you can hire boards and book lessons with Reach Outdoors. They offer a number of paddle board-based adventures; from introductory sessions, guided journeys, to bespoke coaching and overnight expeditions. Enjoy the beachside cafes and facilities for a full day out.
- River Dart (Totnes to Dartmouth). Beyond the estuary at Dartmouth, the River Dart offers a beautiful and tranquil paddle upstream from Totnes. The scenery transitions from the bustling town to lush, tree-lined banks and rolling hills. You can find various launching points along the way, including Totnes town quay. Be mindful of the tides, especially in the lower reaches closer to the sea.
- Broadsands Beach (between Paignton & Brixham). Another excellent spot with a gently sloping beach and peaceful waters ideal for all skill levels. Take in stunning Torbay coastline views. Equipment hire is available from Broadsands Watersports.
- Babbacombe Beach (Torquay). This charming, sheltered cove in Torquay provides a picturesque setting for paddle boarding. The water is often calm. You can explore the stunning red cliffs and even paddle towards the iconic Oddicombe Beach.
Find Your Perfect Stay with Saltwater Escapes:
Saltwater Escapes offers a range of exceptional holiday homes across the English Riviera.
Find your perfect English Riviera escape and book your stay with Saltwater Escapes today!
