Though it’s popularity has recently increased, stand up paddle boarding, sometimes called stand up surfing, has been around for a long time.  It has it’s origins in Hawaii and is an ancient form of surfing. In the 60′s, surfers in Hawaii would stand on their long boards to take pictures of the tourists learning to surf.  It was then adopted by surfing instructors, as standing gives a much better view of their classes and the incoming swell.

Stand up paddle boarding offers an excellent workout and has gained a loyal following of celebrities and athletes.  It’s relatively easy to do and accommodates all skill levels and abilities.  It is much easier to learn than surfing.  Most people are comfortable in an hour or less.

The Pawleys Island area offers world class stand up paddle boarding due to our different ecosystems.  The beauty of the salt marshes, creeks, river, and ocean are easily accessed via stand up paddle board.  The higher vantage point gained by standing up makes this a fantastic way to explore our waters.

From the calm of our salt marshes and creeks, to the slow moving Waccamaw River, even beginner stand up paddle boarders can enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of our lowcountry waters.

Those who want more excitement, can head for our beaches.  Stand up paddle boarding in the ocean is a bit more challenging but can be learned quickly.

Surf the Earth in Pawleys Island is an excellent local source for all things related to stand up paddle boarding.  (As well as surfing, kayaking, and skateboarding!)  They offer instruction, tours, and carry a full line of stand up paddle boards and accessories.  Jamie or Scott can tell you the best places and times to go and offer excellent advice on getting started.  They can be reached at 843-235-3500 or visit their website at http://surf-the-earth.com/d/ .

One piece of advice that Jamie shared is to leave around dusk, take a cooler and some snacks, paddle against the current and then have a seat and enjoy the ride back in the moon light.

Stand up paddle boarding can be enjoyed in the cooler months, just like surfing or kayaking, if you wear a spring suit or wet suit.  The views afforded by your height, the core workout, and the ease of learning, will make sure that stand up paddle boarding is not just the latest fad.  It’s as close to walking on water as you can get.