Looking for the best places to paddle board in Southampton?
Discover stunning coastlines and serene rivers in this beautiful UK city.
Join us as we reveal the top paddle boarding spots in Southampton.
Let’s dive in and start exploring. Are you ready?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Southampton
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 River Itchen
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Woodmill Outdoor Centre (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, can be breezy
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Swans, ducks, geese, kingfishers
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Riverside Park, Cobden Bridge, Itchen Valley Country Park
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be careful of other water users, respect wildlife
The River Itchen is a tranquil spot for paddle boarding in Southampton. The clear chalk stream flows through beautiful parks, offering a peaceful setting for both beginners and experienced paddle boarders.
Enjoy the scenic views and the chance to spot local wildlife as you glide along the water.
#2 Weston Shore
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Weston Shore Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered shore, tidal waters
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, potential for dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Southampton Water, views of the Isle of Wight
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, be aware of shipping lanes
Located along the Southampton Water, Weston Shore offers a beautiful stretch of coast for paddle boarding.
With a sandy beach for launching and sheltered waters from the offshore winds, it’s a great spot for beginners and families to enjoy a day on the water. Don’t forget to admire the views of the Isle of Wight in the distance while you’re out there.
#3 River Hamble
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Swanwick Marina (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, protected waters
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Swans, ducks, geese, kingfishers
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Marinas, historic village of Hamble
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of boat traffic, follow marina rules
The River Hamble is a picturesque setting for paddle boarding, located just outside of Southampton.
The river meanders through charming marinas and the historic village of Hamble. Safe and protected from strong winds, it’s an ideal location for those looking for a gentle and scenic paddle boarding experience.
#4 Calshot Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Calshot Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Tidal waters, can be windy
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, possible dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Calshot Castle, views of the Solent
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, be cautious in windy conditions
Calshot Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddle boarding. This sandy spit extends into the Solent, offering fantastic views and challenging conditions for more experienced paddlers.
Remember to check tide times before setting off, and be prepared for windier conditions on your paddle.
#5 Lepe Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Lepe Country Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, tidal influence
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, possible dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Isle of Wight, Solent
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Check tide times, follow country park regulations
Lepe Beach, located in Lepe Country Park, offers a picturesque spot for paddle boarding while enjoying views across the Solent.
The calm waters are perfect for paddlers of all abilities, and the country park surroundings make it enjoyable for a family day out on the water.
#6 Hook Park
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Hook Park Rd (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Tidal river, calm waters
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Swans, ducks, geese
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: River views, parkland
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of boat traffic, check tide times
Hook Park is situated along the banks of the River Test and offers a peaceful setting for paddle boarding.
The calm, tidal waters are perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the surrounding parkland provides a serene atmosphere for connecting with nature while out on the water.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Southampton?
Southampton has several spots for paddle boarding including the River Hamble, River Itchen, and Southampton Water.
Do paddle boards need to get registered in Southampton?
No, paddle boards don’t require registration in Southampton.
When is the best time to paddle board in Southampton?
Late spring through early autumn is the ideal time for paddle boarding in Southampton due to favourable weather conditions.
