Islands in NW Wales

The Ultimate Guide to Paddleboarding in North Wales: explore lakes, coastline and estuaries.

Welcome to North Wales, one of the UK’s premier paddling spots. Paddle boarding in North Wales is the best way to discover the best of the rugged coastline, secluded beaches and coves, wildlife-filled estuaries, and mountain lakes. It’s also one of the best ways to escape the holiday crowds and discover more of the areas hidden natural and cultural treasures – I mean there’s not many places where you can paddle beneath castle ramparts. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or dipping your toes into the waters for the first time, North Wales has something for everyone.

Why paddle board in North Wales?

Experience the unparalleled joy of paddleboarding in North Wales, a premier destination for water sports aficionados. North Wales offers an array of breathtaking paddleboarding locations, from the serene mountain lakes of Snowdonia to the striking coastline of Anglesey. Paddle through the peaceful waters of Llyn Padarn, set against the backdrop of Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak, for a tranquil yet visually stunning outing. Embrace the challenge and adventure as you navigate the turbulent waters of the Menai Straits, ideal for skilled paddleboarders seeking a thrilling ride. The Llyn Peninsula awaits with its pristine beaches and inviting clear waters, perfect for both novice and experienced paddleboarders to enjoy a laid-back day or refine their technique. Alongside these picturesque settings, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and diverse seabirds, enriching your paddleboarding adventure. Complete your experience with a visit to the charming local pubs and cafes that dot the region, offering delightful respites near the best paddleboarding spots in North Wales. Whether you’re looking to unwind amidst nature or chase the thrill of the sport, North Wales is the go-to destination for paddleboarders.

Here are our best places to paddle board in North Wales (go to the routes map for details of parking, launch points, pitstops, and special tips for each of these routes) but all can be found in our award winning guidebook Paddleboarding Wales

Further north the Dwyryd Estuary, near Porthmadog, is we think one of the best places to paddleboard in Wales, with vast sand beaches, islets, Portmeirion and stunning views of the mountains as the backdrop. You can also paddle further upstream on the Afon Dwyryd into a steep-sided valley of rare Atlantic oak woodland.

Snowdonia also boasts some of the best mountain lakes paddleboarding in Britain. A string of mountain lakes in the valleys between Beddgelert and Capel Curig include Llyn Gwynant with its stunningly located campsite, Llyn Dinas with the legendary wizard Merlin, and Llynnau Mymbyr with its magnificent views of Snowdon. Nearby, Llyn Geirionydd is a beautiful and remote natural lake, situated in historic mining country within the Gwydir Forest Park. In Llanberis the Snowdonia paddleboarding doesn’t get more magnificent than in Llyn Padarn with its spectacular mountain scenery, hidden lagoons and slate-mining heritage along its shores. Equally impressive is paddleboarding on Bala Lake, Wales’ largest natural lake. This is to name but a few.

The best of Snowdonia paddleboarding

Afon Dwyryd Explorer | Afon Dwyryd into Vale of Ffestiniog | Barmouth (Aber Mawr) Explorer | Mawddach Estuary | Llyn Mair | Llyn Dinas | Llyn Gwynant | Llyn Padarn | Llynnau Mymbyr | Llyn Geirionydd | Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) | Llyn Cwm Bychan

Check the interactive map for more routes – link

 

History-lovers will love the atmospheric industrial ruins of the Porth Wen brickworks on a beautiful paddle from Porth Llechog and paddling into the historic port of Amlwch from Porth Eilian. For nature lovers the Cemlyn Bay terns are not to be missed.

Hopping over to Holy Island there are numerous excellent paddles in the waters that flow between the two islands in Bae Beddmanarch, The Inland Sea and the Cymran Strait. Holyhead Harbour is great for paddleboarding with its sheltered waterfront and marina overlooked by Holyhead Mountain. To the south the popular beach of Rhosneigr offers numerous paddleboarding trips to explore its islets, the small estuary of the Afon Crigyll, or inland the beginners haven of Llyn Maelog. Similarly, you can explore the beach at Borth Wen and Rhoscolyn or take an adventurous coastal trip to the beautiful sandy beach of Silver Bay and popular Trearddur Bay is a great starting point for the paddle to Porth Dafarch and its amazing snorkeling spots.

Where to paddleboard in Anglesey

Holyhead Harbour | Parc Arfordirol to Traeth Penrhos | Parc Arfordirol and Afon Alaw | Cemaes Bay to Cemlyn Bay | Porth Llechog to Porth Wen | Porth Eilian to Amlwch | Traeth Dulas | Traeth Bychan to Moelfre | Menai Straits | Niwbwrch to Ynys Llanddwyn | Malltraeth and Afon Cefni | Aberffraw Estuary | Porth Trecastell to Rhosneigr | Rhosneigr Bay and Afon Crigyll | Llyn Maelog | Y Lasinwen (the Inland Sea) | Four Mile Bridge to Borth Wen, Rhoscolyn | Trearddur Bay and Porth Dafarch

Check the interactive map for more routes 

 

• Llyn Peninsula

The 160km coastline of the Llyn Peninsula, all of which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is full of sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and superb beaches that offers some of the best scenery in Wales. The best beaches in Llyn Peninsula include Morfa Nefyn, Traeth Penllech, Traeth Porthor (Whistling Sands), Abersoch, Llanbedrog, Porthdinllaen, and Traeth Glan-y-Don to name a few. Llyn Peninsula paddleboarding doesn’t get much better than along the north coast where there are some superb coastal routes, including from Trefor to see the amazing sea stacks and extraordinary location below the ‘House of the Dragon’, the charming fishing village of Porth Dinllaen with its perfect beachside inn. There’s also the adventurous route from Porth Iago, one of the prettiest beaches on the Llŷn Peninsula, to Porthor (Whistling Sands).

The south coast offers sea arches and cliffs near Aberdaron and charismatic fishing cove of Porth Meudwy, the starting point for boat trips to Bardsey Island. Further east Machroes beach is a fun playground for the paddleboarder, with a great café – or you can take the gentle trip to Abersoch paddleboarding on St Tudwal’s Road to enjoy views of the peaks of Snowdonia. The wooded bay of Llanbedrog has another great café, and further east Traeth Glan-y-Don, Pwllheli is a hidden gem of Llyn Peninsula beaches with calm, turquoise water offers perfect paddling for beginners avoiding the crowds of Pwllheli.

Where to paddleboard in the Llyn Peninsula

Trefor Seastacks | Porth Dinllaen and Ty Coch Inn | Porth Iago to Porthor (Whistling Sands) | Aberdaron  sea arches and Porth Meudwy | Machroes to Abersoch | Llanbedrog | Traeth Glan-y-Don, Pwllheli |

Check the interactive map for more routes – link

 

• Conwy

Try an amazing estuary paddleboarding along the Conwy Estuary to the ramparts of Conwy Castle for intermediate paddlers or leave from Llandudno for an adventurous paddleboarding trip around Great Orme and Little Orme to find hidden beaches and seals.

Conwy paddleboarding is for the more advanced paddler, but a fabulous location for historical paddleboarding routes, and some of the most scenic paddleboarding Wales.

The best paddleboarding spots in Conwy

Conwy Estuary | Llandudno and Great Orme | Little Orme |

Search map

• Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid)

The largest natural lake in Wales, offers calm waters and beautiful surrounding countryside.

Bala Lake paddle boarding is one of the most popular activities in Wales’ largest natural lake. Set in Eryri National Park, close to the village of Bala, with good lake-side camping and paddle board hire it is one of Wales’ most family-friendly paddleboarding spots.

 

• Porthmadog and the Glaslyn Estuary

Porthmadog paddleboarding in the beautiful sandy Dwyryd Estuary is a great paddle for Snowdonia views. Glaslyn Estuary paddleboarding offers the opportunity of exploring two islands, whilst Dwyryd Estuary paddleboarding takes you through the Ffestiniog valley forested with ancient oak. Further south there is also the hugely popular Shell Island, a shallow estuary protected by sand dunes where the water is every shade of turquoise, and Aberdovey with its beautiful tide-assisted paddle along the estuary

• Lake Vyrnwy

Paddleboard on Lake Vyrnwy and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of one of Wales’ most picturesque paddleboarding spots. Set in the lush landscape of the Berwyn Mountains, Lake Vyrnwy provides a tranquil oasis perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. This destination offers a unique blend of calm waters and breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Lake Vyrnwy dam. Discover some of the best paddleboarding in Wales as you navigate the expansive reservoir, where the surrounding wildlife and Victorian architecture create a paddleboarding experience that is truly unmatched. Whether you’re in pursuit of peace or adventure, Lake Vyrnwy is an idyllic choice for scenic paddleboarding spots promising an unforgettable venture on the water.

Guide to paddle boarding lessons and tours in North Wales

There are some excellent SUP schools offering paddle boarding lessons in North Wales for all abilities. Whether you’re looking to refine your technique or start from the basics, expert instructors can guide you. Paddle board rentals in North Wales are available across the county, from the surf shops of Rhosneigr, Anglesey to the lakeside of Llyn Padarn , ensuring you always have access to the best equipment. Here are our top 10 our recommendations for paddle boarding lessons/hire in North Wales:

 

• SUP Lass Adventures, Llandudno – lessons and tours (Llandudno, River Dee, Mawddach Estuary) star gazing paddles, camp and food and more. https://www.suplass.com/
• Journey with Sian, Anglesey – guided SUP journeys and lessons throughout Anglesey. https://www.journeywithsian.com/
• Snowdonia Watersports, Llyn Padarn – great outfit with shop and café for lessons and hire on Llyn Padarn. https://snowdoniawatersports.com/
• Boulder Adventures, Llyn Padarn – kayak hire on Llyn Padarn https://boulderadventures.co.uk/
• Bala Adventure and Watersport Centre, Lake Bala – kayak and paddle board hire on Lake Bala https://www.balawatersports.com/
• Bethania Adventure, Lake Vyrnwy (hire only) – paddle board and kayak hire on Lake Vyrnwy. https://bethaniaadventure.co.uk/
• Park in the Past, Wrexam – paddleboard lessons and hire https://parkinthepast.org.uk/swim-sup-kayak/
• Llyn Brenig – hire kayak or canoe or self-launch paddle board https://llynbrenig.com/water-activities/
• Bearded Men Adventures, Llangollen – SUP lessons and tours on Llangollen Canal; canoe tours over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct https://www.beardedmenadventures.com/activities/stand-up-paddle-boarding/
• SUP Barmouth – lessons and great trips on the Mawddach Estuary https://www.supbarmouth.co.uk/
• PKS Watersports, Ryll – hire and lessons on north coast Wales https://www.pkswatersports.com/
• Abersoch Watersports, Llyn Peninsula – SUP lessons in Abersoch Bay. https://www.abersochwatersports.co.uk/products/sup-lesson

 

The guide to buying paddle board equipment in North Wales

North Wales is a premier destination for paddle boarding enthusiasts. Whether you’re stepping onto a paddle board for the first time, looking to upgrade your gear or have lost your fin nut bolt screw, finding the right equipment is crucial. This guide provides insider tips on where to buy the best paddle board equipment in North Wales, ensuring you hit the waters with good quality gear. Here are our favourite retailers for paddle board and watersport equipment in North Wales:

1. Go Kayaking North Wales, Llangollen – largest stock of paddle boards and equipment in North Wales; drysuits, wetsuits and watersports clothing
2. Abersoch Watersports – great range of paddleboards and accessories, watersports equipment and more https://www.abersochwatersports.co.uk/
3. Funsport, Rhosneigr – mostly O’Shea paddle boards and paddles; clothing for paddlers. https://www.funsportonline.co.uk/
4. Abersoch Surf and Paddle Shop –affordable range of paddleboards, accessories and clothing. https://www.abersochsurfshop.co.uk/
5. Offaxis, Pwllheli – affordable range of paddle boards and wetsuits. https://www.offaxis.co.uk/
6. PKS Watersports, Rhyll – range of paddleboards and wetsuits. https://www.pkswatersports.com/
7. Mor Watersports, Colwyn Bay – affordable range of paddleboards and paddle boarding accessories and clothing https://morwatersports.com/
8. Conwy Kayaks, Colwyn Bay – range of paddleboards and accessories. https://www.conwykayaks.co.uk/

Best Times to Paddle Board in North Wales

Anytime is the best time to paddle board in North Wales – as long as the weather and water conditions are good. This section explores North Wales’ seasonal offerings, ensuring your paddle boarding experience is the best the season can offer. Whether a seasoned pro or a beginner, understanding the best times to paddle board in North Wales will make your experience more enjoyable.

Summer Paddleboarding (June – August)

• Paddleboarding in Peak Season: The best time for stand-up paddleboarding in North Wales, thanks to optimal warmth and sunshine, alongside tranquil sea conditions.
• Perks of Summer SUP: Maximise your paddleboarding adventure with extensive daylight, appealing warmer waters, and more stable wind patterns; plus, post-paddle refreshments are plentiful with local cafes and pubs open. Coastal SUP activities buzz with energy, while inland SUP excursions offer vibrant wildlife and flora. Look out for SUP lessons, board rentals, and exciting paddleboarding events throughout the region.
• Summer SUP Considerations: Popular beaches and lakes that are prime paddleboarding spots can get busy, so try early morning or late evening paddling sessions to avoid the crowds. Parking spots can be scarce in the hotpots, and low water levels in some lakes might restrict access. Algal bloom in lakes may lead to lake closures so always check ahead when planning your SUP outing.

Autumn SUP Adventures (September – November)

• Autumn Paddleboarding Overview: The season presents a varied climate, ideal for experiencing the changing paddleboarding conditions.
• Benefits of Autumn SUP: With fewer paddleboarders around, you can enjoy serene beaches, breathtaking autumn colours along the waterways, and possibly spot migrating birds and marine life.
• Autumn Paddleboarding Gear: As the water starts cooling, wearing a wetsuit for your SUP sessions becomes essential for comfort and safety.

Winter SUP Experiences (December – February)

• Winter Paddleboarding Climate: Crisp air and varied conditions characterise paddleboarding during this time.
• Winter SUP Advantages: For those seeking quiet, winter offers uncrowded paddleboarding conditions, dramatic coastlines, and a challenging environment for experienced paddlers. The frost-adorned scenery of rivers and lakes provides a unique backdrop for SUP, with sunrise photography opportunities that are conveniently timed.
• Winter Paddleboarding Safety: The shorter days and colder water require careful planning, and using the right SUP equipment and safety gear is crucial during the unpredictable weather. We’d recommend a drysuit, and plenty of layers.

Spring SUP Surprises (March – May)

• Paddleboarding in Springtime: A time of warming weather, perfect for a mix of leisurely and active paddleboarding.
• Spring SUP Benefits: Enjoy paddling with fewer companions, amidst the blooming landscapes and a refreshing atmosphere that heralds the start of a vibrant SUP season.
• Spring Paddleboarding Tips: The still-cool waters call for checking the latest weather and marine conditions, and it’s wise to continue using thermal gear for your early spring paddleboarding sessions.

Every paddle boarding season in North Wales presents distinct experiences for paddlers across the spectrum of expertise. From the calm, inviting waves of the summer to the peaceful stillness of winter, every period brings its own unique allure. Paddle boarding through all the seasons is about immersing yourself in North Wales’ scenic splendour. So grab your board and engage with the changing weather to experience all of the natural beauty North Wales has to offer.

Paddle Boarding Events and Communities

North Wales paddle boarding community, both online and on the water, is thriving. Your experience of paddle boarding here will be greatly enhanced by joining any one of the great Facebook communities, here are some of our favourites:

SUP North Wales Social Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/887561691744958

SUP Wales – https://www.facebook.com/Supwalesofficial

There are a few organised paddle boarding events in North Wales too, here are a couple:

April – Race the Train, Lake Bala https://bala-lake-railway.co.uk/events/race-the-train/

August – Whitewater SUP Fest, Llangollena whitewater SUP race, and plenty of social paddles to enjoy. https://www.standuppaddleboarduk.com/index.php/more-activities/white-water-sup-fest  

CONCLUSION Paddle boarding in North Wales is an experience for any skill level from beginner for those looking for a real challenge. So why not go and explore our fabulous routes or book a lesson or tour. Whilst you are there you can also visit some of North Wales amazing islands – links.

Walks in NW Wales

We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Routes map.