One of the best ways to enjoy the water, have fun and get in shape is paddleboarding! And this Summer there are plenty of opportunities to paddleboard at some of the most beautiful destinations near Los Angeles.
Whether you want to enjoy coastal vibes, harbor paddling, or inland lakes, Los Angeles offers a wide range of paddle boarding destinations.
We collected some of the best places for you, enjoy nature and have a great time while paddleboarding. These areas are also great for picnic lunches, and splendid pictures, or just relaxing between paddles. If you are on a day date, you can also stop by one of the many eateries nearby. Enjoy!
1 – Marina del Rey
Description:
Marina del Rey is well known as one of the most beginner-friendly spot for paddleboarding in Los Angeles. Its protected harbor means calm waters, minimal waves, and a serene environment that’s ideal for both first-timers and experienced paddlers looking for a relaxed day out.
It’s also conveniently located just minutes from Venice Beach, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city.
What sets Marina del Rey apart is the sheer variety of routes and views. Paddle through the marina among luxurious yachts, glide past waterfront homes, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon with little boat traffic during weekdays. If you’re lucky, you might even spot sea lions lounging on the docks or pelicans diving for fish nearby.
Numerous SUP rental shops dot the harbor, many of which also offer beginner lessons and guided tours. Whether you want a quick hour-long excursion or a full day out on the water, Marina del Rey makes it easy to dive into paddleboarding without any stress.
Location: marina del rey harbor
Pic Credit: @Prosupshop
2 – Paradise Cove
Description:
If you’re looking for that picture-perfect paddleboarding backdrop, Paradise Cove in Malibu is hard to beat. With dramatic cliffs, clear blue waters, and white sand beaches, it feels like a scene out of a movie—which makes sense, considering how many have been filmed here.
The cove is tucked away from major currents and strong surf, making it a relatively safe and peaceful location for beginning and experience paddle boarders alike.
The early morning hours are usually the best time to hit the water, with glassy conditions that are perfect for gliding along the coast. You can explore nearby rock formations and sea caves or just drift along, soaking in the incredible ocean views.
Because the cove is relatively small, it’s great for leisurely paddles without venturing too far from shore.
Parking at Paradise Cove can be expensive unless you validate by dining at the Paradise Cove Beach Café, but it’s worth the experience.
Just be sure to check the tide schedule and aim for a sunny, calm day—wind can sometimes pick up in the afternoon and make paddling more of a challenge.
Location: malibu paradise cove
PIC Credit: @Aquabound
3 – Alamitos Bay in Long Beach
Description:
For those willing to make the drive a bit south of L.A., Alamitos Bay in Long Beach is a paddleboarding paradise. With its calm, protected waters and wide open channels, it’s ideal for longer paddles or group outings.
The Bay is flanked by Naples Island, which adds a charming, European-style vibe with its network of canals and waterfront homes.
Paddling through the canals of Naples feels like a mini escape to Venice, Italy—without the passport. The narrow waterways offer a unique and peaceful experience, with little boat traffic and plenty of shade. The surrounding neighborhood is quiet and upscale, creating a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a leisurely cruise.
Rental options are plentiful, with several vendors located right near the water. It’s also close to some great restaurants and coffee shops, making it easy to turn your paddle session into a full-day mini getaway.
Location: 205 N Marina Dr, Long Beach, CA 9080
PIC Credit: @Patch
4 – Redondo Beach Harbor
Description:
Redondo Beach Harbor might not get as much buzz as Santa Monica or Venice, but it’s a gem for paddleboarders in the South Bay. The harbor is shielded from ocean swell, which keeps the water calm and flat—ideal for practicing your technique or trying SUP yoga.
With the iconic King Harbor Marina and pier nearby, there’s no shortage of gorgeous scenery.
You’ll likely encounter marine life here, including sea lions, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. The water is relatively clean for a harbor, and early mornings offer especially smooth paddling conditions.
The inner harbor is great for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can venture out along the breakwater for a bit more adventure.
There’s plenty of parking, and rental shops like Paddle House and Redondo Beach Adventures make it easy to gear up and get going.
After your session, we recommend you grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants or walk the Redondo Pier for a relaxing post-paddle cooldown.
Location: 208 Yacht Club Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
PIC Credit: @Visittheusa
5 – Castaic Lake
Description:
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different—away from the coast and into the hills—head north to Castaic Lake in the Santa Clarita Valley. About an hour’s drive from downtown L.A., this city in north west LA County has a freshwater reservoir that offers a scenic and uncrowded alternative to the Pacific Ocean.
The upper lake is designated for boating and water sports, while the lower lake is ideal for non-motorized activities like paddleboarding.
The calm, wide-open space is perfect for a long-distance paddle or a relaxing float. Since it’s a reservoir, the water stays fairly calm all day long, and the lack of ocean currents makes it ideal for families and novice paddlers.
The surrounding hills and oak trees create a peaceful, almost alpine feel that’s totally different from the typical L.A. beach scene.
Just keep in mind there’s a small entrance fee to access the lake, and the facilities close around sunset. But with picnic areas, trails, and even fishing zones nearby, Castaic Lake is more than just a paddleboarding spot—it’s a full outdoor experience.
Bring lunch, spend the day, and enjoy a quiet side of Southern California that most Angelenos overlook.
Also before making plans to visit be sure to check current conditions. In Spring of 2025 there were some closures due to wildfires and we are not sure at the time of this writing when those will be resolved.
Location:Castaic, Los Angeles County
PIC Credit: @Youtube
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