Tips for Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Destin

Newman-Dailey Destin Real Estate Agent Shannyn Stevenson “knows the Gulf Coast” and as a long-time resident and avid paddle boarder, she offers some great tips for stand-up paddle boarding in Destin.

Find a Beach Access with Flat Walk-On Access. Pompano Joe's is where I go but it can be tough to to carry the board up and down the stairs. It is a good workout! There are locations that offer flat walk on access, including the access behind Seascape next to the Whale’s Tale has a drive on /walk on ramp. Also on Scenic Highway 30A, the Dune Allen Beach Access, Ed Walline Access in Santa Rosa Beach and Grayton Beach public access offer flat walk-on access to the beach with no stairs to climb. In Destin, Crab Trap and Back Porch are also very good walk on spots.

Paddle against the current first. After paddling for a while (especially if you don’t paddle regularly), your arms may become fatigued so it is best to begin your paddle into the wind and against the current. I like to paddle against the current first; this way it’s an easier paddle on the way back to my destination.

The earlier the better. I recommend paddling between the hours of 8 am to 10 am because this is the time of day you will see the most dolphins. (Check out my dolphin encounter on YouTube.) The surf is also usually calmer in the morning. The wind and surf usually picks up through the day, making afternoons more difficult for stand up paddle boarding. 

When the wind picks up, get down. If the wind picks up while you’re out boarding, standing up may slow you down. Your body catches the wind and acts as a sail. I recommend getting on your knees. By getting closer to the board, you will gain power and speed to get back to the beach.

Don’t own a board? Rent a Board. There are many locations on the beach to rent paddle boards and it is great for anyone who wants to add this activity to their Destin vacation beach experience. Click here for a list of Newman-Dailey rental partners who offer discounts for Newman-Dailey clients.

Want to race? Paddle at the Porch is an annual stand up paddle board race held each August at the Back Porch Seafood & Oyster Bar in Destin. The 6th Annual Paddle at the Porch will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017, beginning at 9 a.m. The event features a Kids' Fun Paddle, 1-Mile Beginner Ride, 3-Mile Recreational Race, and 6-Mile Elite Race. Whether you join the fun or simply cheer on the racers, it always a fun day.

Ready to own piece of paradise and become a regular boarder? I am happy to share my knowledge and expertise and can be reached at [email protected].  View Emerald Coast properties for sale online.

Newman-Dailey has an experienced team of Destin real estate agents and consistently ranks within the top 10% of real estate companies in Destin according to the Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS.

To book your next beach vacation, view Newman-Dailey's premier Destin vacation rentals online. Want help narrowing your search? Call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652.

See you @ the beach!