The Best Places to Paddleboard Near Shorefield Holidays: Rivers, Harbours & Coastal Adventures

The South Coast is one of the UK's best destinations for paddleboarding, with Hampshire and Dorset offering an incredible variety of rivers, harbours, lakes, estuaries and stunning coastal waters to explore. From the peaceful waterways of the New Forest to picturesque harbours and scenic bays, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic way to discover the region from a whole new perspective.

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, you'll find plenty of fantastic paddleboarding spots within easy reach of our Shorefield Holidays parks. Many locations also have local paddleboard hire and SUP lesson providers, making it easy to get out on the water without bringing your own equipment.

From gentle river paddles surrounded by wildlife to unforgettable coastal adventures with breathtaking sea views, the South Coast has something to suit every paddler. Whether you're planning a family day out, a relaxing solo paddle or an active holiday adventure, these are some of the best places to go paddleboarding in Hampshire and Dorset.

Before You Set Off

A little preparation goes a long way. Before heading out, check the local weather forecast, tide times and wind conditions, and always choose a location that suits your level of experience. Wear a buoyancy aid, use a leash appropriate for where you're paddling, and if you're new to the sport, consider booking a lesson with one of the excellent local instructors.

Before heading out, it's always worth familiarising yourself with the latest paddleboarding safety guidance. The RNLI offers practical advice on everything from choosing the right equipment to understanding tides, weather conditions and what to do in an emergency. You can find their stand-up paddleboarding safety guide here.

Christchurch Harbour, River Stour & River Avon

Just a short drive from Shorefield Holidays, Christchurch Harbour and the connecting Rivers Stour and Avon offer one of the most varied paddleboarding experiences on the south coast. From peaceful river routes and wildlife-rich waterways to sheltered harbour waters, this beautiful area is perfect for exploring at your own pace.

The calm, sheltered waters make it an excellent choice for beginners, families and anyone looking for a relaxing paddle. Launch from areas such as Mudeford Quay and explore the harbour's quiet inlets, glide past colourful beach huts and sailing boats, or head upstream along the Rivers Stour and Avon for a more tranquil countryside adventure.

As you paddle further inland, the scenery changes from coastal views to tree-lined riverbanks, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife including swans, herons and kingfishers. Whether you're enjoying a gentle morning paddle or spending a few hours discovering the waterways, this is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Hampshire and Dorset.

For more information on paddling routes around Christchurch Harbour, including the River Avon and River Stour loop, visit Paddle UK: https://paddleuk.org.uk/places-to-paddle-christchurch-loop-river-avon-and-stour/

Why you'll love it:

• One location with rivers, harbour and coastal scenery to explore

• Calm, sheltered waters ideal for beginners

• Beautiful harbour views and colourful beach huts

• Fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities

• Peaceful countryside paddles along the Rivers Stour and Avon

• Plenty of cafés, restaurants and places to relax nearby

Paddleboard hire:

• ShoreSports, Mudeford Quay

• The SUP School, Little Avon Marina

• Local providers offer board hire, lessons and guided tours

Beaulieu River

Flowing through the heart of the New Forest before reaching the Solent, the Beaulieu River is one of the region's most scenic places to explore by paddleboard.

Surrounded by ancient woodland, salt marshes and peaceful countryside, it’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature from the water. Keep an eye out for egrets, herons, kingfishers and, if you’re lucky, seals near the river mouth.

The Beaulieu River is privately owned by the Montagu Estate, so it’s important to check access arrangements before launching your own board. If you’re bringing your own paddleboard, you can launch from the concrete slipway at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour. A launch fee applies and booking is required in advance — you can find out more about launch arrangements here.

As there are limited options for paddleboard hire directly on the Beaulieu River, this location is best suited to visitors bringing their own equipment. However, if you’d like to explore the river without your own board, New Forest Activities offer guided canoe and kayak experiences, with canoes available for up to three people.

Why you’ll love it:

• Stunning New Forest scenery

• Peaceful estuary paddling

• Incredible birdlife and wildlife spotting

• A tranquil escape away from busier coastal spots

• Beautiful views perfect for photography

Paddleboard hire:

• Limited paddleboard hire is available in this area, so bringing your own board is recommended

• New Forest Activities offer guided canoe and kayak trips along the Beaulieu River 

Keyhaven

Tucked between the New Forest National Park and the Solent, Keyhaven offers a wonderfully peaceful paddle through winding creeks, salt marshes and sheltered waterways.

This beautiful coastal village sits alongside an internationally important nature reserve, making it one of the best places in the area for wildlife spotting. As you explore the waterways, keep an eye out for wading birds, herons and other coastal wildlife, while enjoying views across the Solent towards Hurst Castle.

For more experienced paddlers, it’s possible to explore further towards Hurst Castle when conditions allow. As this is a tidal area, it’s important to check the weather, tides and local launch information before setting off.

Why you'll love it:

• Quiet, unspoilt surroundings

• Fantastic birdwatching and wildlife spotting

• Sheltered creeks and waterways to explore

• Beautiful views across the Solent towards Hurst Castle

• A peaceful alternative to busier coastal locations

Paddleboard hire and launching:

• There is currently limited paddleboard hire available in the Keyhaven area, so bringing your own board and equipment is recommended.

• If launching your own paddleboard, check local access arrangements, launch points and any applicable fees before your visit.

• Launch fee information for Keyhaven can be found here.

Lymington

Combining a bustling harbour with beautiful coastal scenery, Lymington is a fantastic destination for a paddleboarding day out. With sheltered waters, local instructors and specialist paddleboarding businesses on hand, it’s a particularly welcoming place for those trying the sport for the first time.

If you’re new to paddleboarding, Lymington Sea Water Baths provide a great place to build confidence and learn the basics in a safe, sheltered environment before heading out onto the open water. For those looking to explore further, local providers offer beginner lessons, guided tours and independent paddling adventures around the estuary and Solent.

After your paddle, take time to explore Lymington’s historic High Street, browse independent shops or relax with lunch, coffee or an ice cream at one of the many waterfront cafés.

Why you'll love it:

• A paddleboard-friendly destination with options for all abilities

• Sheltered waters ideal for beginners finding their feet

• Beautiful marina, estuary and coastal scenery

• Lessons, guided tours and equipment available locally

• Great cafés, pubs and independent shops to enjoy after your paddle

Paddleboard hire, lessons and equipment:

• SUP Styles Lymington – offering paddleboard lessons, guided tours and sessions for beginners and more experienced paddlers

• The SUP Co X Lymington – a specialist paddleboard shop offering equipment, advice and everything you need for your paddleboarding adventures

• Lymington Sea Water Baths – a great location to learn the basics in sheltered waters

Poole Harbour & Sandbanks

As one of the largest natural harbours in the world, Poole Harbour is a fantastic paddleboarding destination with something to offer every level of experience. Its sheltered waters, beautiful scenery and variety of routes make it a great place for beginners taking their first strokes through to experienced paddlers looking to explore further.

From quiet coves and sandy beaches to views across the harbour’s islands, there are plenty of places to discover by paddleboard. Sandbanks is a particularly popular spot, offering stunning coastal scenery, golden sands and easy access to the beautiful waters of the harbour and surrounding coastline.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed paddle, a family-friendly adventure or a guided tour to discover the best hidden spots, Poole Harbour and Sandbanks are ideal locations for a day on the water. After your paddle, enjoy a stroll along the beach, grab a bite to eat or take in the views across one of Dorset’s most iconic coastal areas.

Why you'll love it:

• Suitable for all abilities, from beginners to experienced paddlers

• Sheltered waters and a variety of routes to explore

• Stunning views across Poole Harbour and Sandbanks

• Beautiful beaches, islands and coastal scenery

• A great choice for a full day out by the water

Paddleboard hire, lessons and guided tours:
There are several local companies offering paddleboard hire, beginner sessions and guided tours, making it easy to enjoy Poole Harbour even if you don’t have your own equipment.

• ShoreSports – guided paddleboarding tours exploring the islands and waterways around Poole Harbour

• South Coast Adventures – paddleboard hire and experiences suitable for different abilities

• Sandbanks Paddle Hire – paddleboard hire from one of Dorset’s most famous beaches

• Easy Riders Paddle Hire – paddleboard rental and watersports equipment

 Paddle Safely

To make the most of your adventure:

• Check the weather, tides and wind before heading out.

• Wear a buoyancy aid.

• Carry your phone in a waterproof pouch.

• Paddle with a friend whenever possible.

• Respect wildlife and protected habitats.

• Stay within your ability and avoid venturing into open water in unsuitable conditions.

Stay Close to Your Next Adventure

One of the joys of staying with Shorefield Holidays is having so many incredible paddleboarding locations right on your doorstep. Whether you're gliding along the tranquil Beaulieu River, exploring the sheltered waters of Christchurch Harbour or taking in the stunning coastal views from Milford on Sea, there's a paddle to suit every experience level.

So, if you're planning your next stay, why not add a paddleboarding adventure to your itinerary? With beautiful waterways, friendly local hire centres and unforgettable scenery waiting to be explored, it's one of the best ways to discover Hampshire and Dorset from a whole new perspective.