Best Paddle Board Rentals in Cocoa Beach, FL

• Posted on 13 May 2025
• By Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic
• 0

Best Paddle Board Rentals in Cocoa Beach, FL

If you’re looking for the best paddle board rentals in Cocoa Beach, Epic Boardsports is the local go-to. Located right in the heart of Cocoa Beach, Epic offers in-store rentals, expert advice, and a deep understanding of local paddling conditions—from tides and wind to the best times to spot wildlife.

Whether you're interested in SUP tours around Cocoa Beach, paddling through calm canals, or hoping for a once-in-a-lifetime experience paddle boarding with manatees, Epic has the gear and guidance to get you there.

Not sure where to paddle board in Cocoa Beach? The staff will point you toward the best local spots based on wind, tides, and your experience level. Beginners can book paddle board lessons in Cocoa Beach directly through Epic to get comfortable quickly and avoid common mistakes.

Stop by Epic Boardsports or browse our SUP collection online to get matched with the perfect board for your next Cocoa Beach session.

SUP Spots to Explore in Melbourne, FL

Just south of Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, Florida offers some of the best-kept secrets in Brevard County for stand-up paddle boarders. If you're looking to paddle through mangroves, spot wildlife, or explore quiet river systems, this area delivers.

Top places to paddle board near Melbourne:

• Turkey Creek: Known for its shaded paddle routes, manatees, and calm, winding turns. It’s one of the top spots for eco tours and paddle boarding in Brevard County.
  
  
• Crane Creek: A more urban paddle route that flows through downtown Melbourne and into the Indian River. Smooth and scenic.
  
  
• Indian River Lagoon: Vast and versatile. Good for longer paddles or exploring with a touring board.
  
  

While Epic Boardsports doesn’t rent paddle boards in Melbourne, we regularly work with locals who need gear for these areas. If you’re shopping for a paddle board near Turkey Creek or looking for advice on what board works best for paddle boarding in Melbourne, Florida, we’ve got you.

Want a lightweight board for loading at boat ramps? Or something stable for wildlife photography?
We’ll help you find the perfect match.

Ready to explore Melbourne’s best paddle spots?
Stop by Epic in Cocoa Beach—we’ll help you gear up with the right board, paddle, and accessories for river paddling, eco tours, and everything in between. Many of our customers from Brevard County make the short drive just to get expert guidance before they hit Turkey Creek or Crane Creek.

 Check out our SUP collection and get personalized help from paddlers who know the local waters.

Paddle Boarding Near Orlando

In Orlando? Here’s Why Cocoa Beach Is Worth the Drive

If you're in Orlando and want to paddle board, you’ve got options—but nothing beats the feeling of heading to the coast, seeing the ocean, and getting out on the water for real.

Just an hour from downtown, Cocoa Beach offers mellow waves, easy paddling zones, and local wildlife you won’t find in the springs or lakes. Think dolphins, manatees, and wide open water where you can truly unwind.

Most visitors searching “paddle boarding in Orlando” are looking for calm water and a beginner-friendly experience. Guess what? Cocoa Beach delivers exactly that—with the bonus of sand under your feet and salty air in your lungs.

Whether you want a chill paddle through mangroves or a session in the surf, Cocoa has it—and Epic Boardsports is your local hookup for rentals, gear, and lessons. We’ve helped hundreds of Orlando locals and weekend travelers get on the water, fast.

 Thinking about buying a board but not sure what’s right?
We’ll help you demo or rent first—then credit it toward your purchase if you decide to buy.

 Check out our full SUP board selection or stop by next time you escape the city.

How to Choose the Right Paddle Board for Florida Conditions

Florida offers a little bit of everything—but here in Cocoa Beach, you’ll mostly be paddling flatwater canals, protected river zones, and small surf. That means your board should match the conditions for comfort, control, and fun.

Calm Water & River Zones (Banana River, Thousand Islands, mangrove tunnels)

If you’re exploring the calm backwaters of Cocoa Beach, a stable, wide paddle board—around 32" to 34" wide with a rounded nose—is ideal. These boards glide easily and keep you balanced, especially in choppier wind or light current.

Surf Zone Paddling (Small Waves, Beach Launches)

For days when the surf is small and clean, go with a board under 10’ for more maneuverability. Epic can help you choose a shape that works for both paddling and catching your first waves.

First-Time Paddlers in Cocoa

If you’re just starting out, we recommend a 10’6” or 11’6” all-around board. It’s stable, forgiving, and perfect for the mellow waters around Cocoa Beach.

Inflatable vs. Hard Board for Cocoa

Inflatables are easier to transport and store—great if you’re visiting or don’t have garage space. But if you’re local and want better performance in both flatwater and waves, a hard board is worth it.

Still unsure what to get? Epic will help you choose the best paddle board for Cocoa Beach based on your goals, experience, and lifestyle.

 Explore our full board lineup here or come in for a custom fit.

SUP in Daytona Beach? While Daytona Beach is more known for surf and speed, it does offer a few solid paddle boarding spots. Places like the Halifax River and Tomoka State Park provide calm water and scenic routes for casual paddlers or those taking a road trip up the coast.

If you're staying in Daytona and want gear, Epic Boardsports is just over an hour south in Cocoa Beach—we’re happy to help you choose a board before you hit the water or explore further down the coast.

Where can I buy a paddle board in Cocoa Beach?

Ready to Buy a Paddle Board? Here’s Why Locals Trust Epic in Cocoa Beach

If you're searching for where to buy a paddle board in Florida, skip the big-box stores and come straight to the source. Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach isn’t just a shop—it’s a hub for paddlers who want real advice, high-quality gear, and a board that fits your lifestyle.

We help customers from all over Florida—especially Brevard County, Orlando, and the Space Coast—find their perfect board. Whether you’re upgrading from your first inflatable or buying your first hard board for surf and river paddling, we’ll get you dialed in.

Why Epic Boardsports?

•  Expert board matching based on your skill, goals, and paddling location
  
  
•  Rental-to-buy option: Try before you commit
  
  
• A curated selection of top-performing SUPs—no cheap knockoffs
  
  
• Local knowledge of Florida conditions (not just surf, but wind, tide, and access points)
  
  

If you’re Googling “paddle board shop near me” or wondering where to buy a SUP in Brevard County, Epic is it. We’ve been helping paddlers ride the right boards for years—and we’re happy to help you, too.

Browse boards now or stop by in person to get fitted right.

Do I Need a Lesson Before Paddle Boarding for the First Time?

Paddle boarding looks easy—and it is once you’ve got the basics down. But most first-timers waste their first few sessions figuring out simple things like stance, paddle technique, and how to handle current or wind.

A single paddle board lesson in Cocoa Beach with one of Epic’s instructors can save you hours of frustration (and a few falls). You'll learn:

• How to stand with balance and confidence
  
  
• How to paddle efficiently and turn with ease
  
  
• What to do in wind, chop, or shallow water
  
  
• How to choose the right board for your body and goals
  
  

Many people searching “how to learn paddle boarding” or “do I need a lesson to paddle board” assume they can wing it. You can—but with a 30-minute SUP lesson, you’ll be standing, steering, and smiling in no time.

New to Paddle Boarding?

We offer beginner paddle board lessons in Cocoa Beach that are relaxed, fun, and totally beginner-safe. Plus, they’re a great way to test a board before you buy.

 Book your lesson here
If you’re new to paddle boarding and want a smooth first session, book a lesson with Epic and we’ll walk you through it step by step.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paddle Boarding in Florida

Can beginners paddle board in Cocoa Beach?

Yes—Cocoa Beach is one of the best places in Florida for beginner paddle boarders. The water is generally calm, especially in the backwater canals and the Banana River. Plus, Epic Boardsports offers beginner-friendly SUP lessons to help you feel confident from your first paddle.

Do I need a lesson to start paddle boarding?

While paddle boarding is beginner-friendly, a lesson can make a huge difference—especially when it comes to learning balance, stroke technique, and how to deal with wind or chop. Epic’s instructors can help you stand up and paddle like a pro in just one session.

What should I wear paddle boarding in Florida?

In warmer months, a swimsuit, rash guard, and water shoes are ideal. In winter or windier days, a light wetsuit or layered dry-fit clothing can help you stay comfortable. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Where are the best places to paddle board near Cocoa Beach?

Some of the best places include:

• Thousand Islands (calm and scenic)
  
  
• Banana River (great for manatees and wildlife)
  
  
• Cocoa Beach surf zone (small, mellow waves for SUP surfing)
  
  

Can you paddle board with manatees in Cocoa Beach?

Yes! The Banana River and Thousand Islands area are known for manatee sightings—especially in the cooler months. Paddle boarding quietly through these zones gives you a chance to observe them respectfully and up close.

What’s the difference between inflatable and hard paddle boards?

Inflatable paddle boards are easier to store and transport—great for travel or small spaces.
Hard boards offer better performance, speed, and wave handling, especially in ocean or surf conditions.
Epic Boardsports can help you choose the best one for your goals and lifestyle.

Can I buy a paddle board and take it home the same day?

Absolutely. Epic Boardsports offers in-store board matching, and if you rent first, you can apply that rental toward your purchase. Walk in with questions, walk out with the perfect setup.

What size paddle board is best for beginners?

Most beginners do best on an all-around board that’s 10’6” to 11’6” long and 32” to 34” wide. This size range gives great stability without sacrificing maneuverability.

How much does it cost to rent a paddle board in Cocoa Beach?

Rental rates vary by duration and board type, but expect around $35–$50 for a half-day or full-day rental depending on the SUP. Epic Boardsports offers competitive rates and high-quality gear—plus the option to apply rental credit toward a future board purchase.

Written by Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic:  

Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, digital marketing expert and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. An avid waterman, he's passionate and knowledgeable about all things watersports from wing foil to wake. When he's not writing articles, you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym.