Close

Embrace the Adventure: Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Costa Rica

If you want to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, you can paddle in protected bays, over coral reefs in warmer waters on our Costa Rica and The Panama Canal expedition. More experienced paddlers can enjoy the larger waves on beaches. 

The experience of stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) in one of the most biologically intense regions of the world both above and under the water is guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle above vibrant coral reefs, or drift quietly under the backdrop of lush rainforests. 

Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to see as much as possible. We paddle anywhere between 2.5-5 km / 1-2 mi. (2 to 4 hours) per outing, sometimes taking a snack and a cool drink to enjoy on our excursion. 

Our group of up to 8 paddlers generally visit the same wildlife sites as our fellow expeditioners. However, the shallow draft of our boards means that we also have the opportunity to access areas that are often not accessible by Zodiacs. 

The warm aqua-blue waters are perfect for spotting manta rays, dolphins, turtles and whales. The elements play an important role in any paddle outing so it is important to understand that our paddleboarding time may be affected by the weather that we experience

Top reasons to choose a Stand-Up Paddleboarding holiday

See wildlife unobtrusively

SUPs are one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from curious marine life to diverse birds.

Better access


Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can't reach.​

Make friends


Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

It's fun!


Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

Gallery

FAQs

Paddle boarders must be 14 or over.

Yes, you will be supplied with a waterproof backpack for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre dry bag for personal items.
Yes, but we highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. You can also put a smaller camera in the waterproof back pack. These are very solid and dependable.
  • SUP board, leash & paddle
  • Neoprene boots
  • Safety gear
  • A dry bag
  • PFD (Life jacket)
We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship – the emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances. Your guide will be in constant radio contact with our ship captain and expedition leader and if we need to return to the ship a Zodiac can be called.
The inflatable paddle boards are stable but in the event that wind chop or swell make paddling uncomfortable, your guide will cancel the outing or transfer boards and paddlers to a protected shoreline.

Our guides have many years of stand-up paddleboarding experience in the destinations we visit. The paddleboarding guide will lead the group on each excursion, explaining facts about the wildlife and other highlights we paddle across.

Contact Us

404

Sorry, an error occurred.

Form not found.

Call Now | Find an Expedition