How to Choose a Paddle Board for Florida
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- By Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic
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Paddle Boarding in the Sunshine State
Florida isn’t just one of the best places to paddle board in the U.S. — it’s one of the best in the world. Between calm lagoons, manatee-filled rivers, and surfable waves off Cocoa Beach, you’ll find just about every type of SUP experience here. That variety also means there’s no single “best” paddle board for Florida waters. The perfect board for a morning wildlife paddle in Merritt Island won’t necessarily be the right board for catching waves in Satellite Beach or taking your kids out on Lake Virginia in Orlando.
That’s where a little guidance goes a long way. Whether you’re a first-time paddler, a visiting tourist, or a Central Florida local ready to invest in your own gear, choosing the right paddle board will save you time, money, and frustration. At Epic Boardsports, we help paddlers match their lifestyle with the right board, and with our lessons, rentals, and demo program, you can test your options before committing.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: board types, inflatable vs. hard designs, sizing, where to paddle locally, and which features matter most. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the perfect paddle board for your Florida adventures.
We’ve been teaching here in Cocoa Beach and doing SUP tours for over a decade now. This guide will help you pick the right board, but you should call us and get a personalized recommendation from Jennifer.
Jennifer
321-406-1964
[email protected]
What type of paddle board is best for Florida waters?
Florida’s waters vary wildly depending on where you launch. That’s why the first step is deciding what kind of paddling you’ll do most often.
Calm lagoons and rivers: Spots like the Banana River Lagoon, Turkey Creek, and the Thousand Islands are glassy, wildlife-rich environments. All-around SUPs and touring boards thrive here. They’re stable, track straight, and let you enjoy longer paddles without fighting balance.
Ocean and surf: Cocoa Beach and Satellite Beach are known for their surf culture. If you plan to ride waves, look at shorter, surf-style paddle boards. These are more maneuverable and designed for performance in choppy water. See our Starboard Spice SURF SUP Review.
Inland lakes: Orlando’s Lake Virginia and the Winter Park chain are calm, recreational areas perfect for families. Wide, all-around boards excel here, especially if you’ll paddle with kids or pets.
Inflatable vs. hard boards in Florida waters
Inflatables work great on the Banana River or Turkey Creek because they’re forgiving if you bump mangroves or docks. Hard boards shine in the surf or on long ocean tours when you want speed and efficiency. Many Florida paddlers keep both types for flexibility, but if you’re just starting out, think about whether you’ll spend more time cruising flatwater or playing in the waves.
Ready to explore your options? Stop into Epic Boardsports and see our full Paddle Board Collection tailored to Florida’s unique conditions.
Should I get an inflatable or hard paddle board in Florida?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer depends on your storage situation, travel needs, and how you plan to paddle.
Inflatable paddle boards
- Roll up small and fit in a car trunk or closet.
- Great for apartment dwellers, Orlando visitors, or anyone traveling frequently.
- Softer construction makes them beginner-friendly and kid-friendly.
- Slightly slower in performance compared to hard boards.
Hard paddle boards
- Rigid and efficient, giving better glide and responsiveness.
- Ideal for surfing Cocoa Beach waves or fitness paddling along Merritt Island.
- Require roof racks or garage storage.
- More durable long-term if properly cared for.
For Florida paddlers, many start with an inflatable for convenience, then add a hard board once they find their rhythm in the sport. If you’re on the fence, you don’t have to guess — you can rent or demo a paddle board at Epic and feel the difference on the water before buying.
What size paddle board do I need for Florida paddling?
The right size paddle board comes down to your weight, skill level, and where you’ll be paddling. Bigger boards are more stable, smaller boards are more maneuverable.
Quick reference guide:
- Beginner / family paddling: 10’6” length x 32–34” width → Stable for calm lagoons like Banana River.
- Touring / distance paddling: 11–12’6” length x 30–32” width → Faster glide for spots like Turkey Creek or Lake Virginia.
- Surf paddle boarding: 9–10’ length x 30” width → Easier to maneuver in Cocoa Beach surf.
If you weigh under 150 lbs, you can size down slightly. Over 200 lbs? Look for at least 32” of width for stability. Families with kids or dogs on board should also prioritize width.
If you need more help, you can book a rental and we’ll watch you paddle and recommend a board based on your comfort, balance, and goals. We can also just talk it out on the phone.
Where are the best places to paddle board in Central Florida?
Florida’s east coast and inland waterways offer plenty of SUP options. Here are a few local favorites:
Banana River Lagoon (Merritt Island/Cape Canaveral) — Calm, expansive, and filled with dolphins and manatees. Touring or all-around boards are best.
Turkey Creek (Palm Bay) — Shaded, narrow creek with calm water, perfect for inflatables or stable touring boards.
Thousand Islands (Cocoa Beach) — Mangrove tunnels and wildlife viewing make this a beginner-friendly spot. Touring boards track well for exploring.
Lake Virginia (Orlando) — Central to the Winter Park chain, it’s an accessible spot for weekend paddlers. Wide all-around boards excel here.
Sebastian Inlet — For advanced paddlers, this is where touring boards and surf SUPs thrive in open ocean conditions.
Want to try before you buy? You can rent or demo a paddle board at Epic and see which style suits your favorite Florida waters.
Is paddle boarding in Cocoa Beach good for beginners?
Yes, Cocoa Beach is one of the best places in Florida to learn SUP. While the surf zone can be challenging, the Banana River side offers calm, flatwater conditions that are ideal for first-timers. Launch near the causeways or from local parks like Ramp Road for easy access.
Wildlife is another reason beginners love Cocoa Beach. Spot dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds all within a few minutes of paddling. Plus, Epic has beginner-friendly gear and local knowledge to get you started on the right foot.
If you’re new, book Epic’s beginner SUP lessons before investing in a board. You’ll build confidence faster and learn proper technique from the start.
Do I need a lesson before buying a paddle board in Florida?
You don’t need one, but it’s highly recommended. Here’s why:
Faster learning curve: A coach helps you get your stance, paddle stroke, and balance right away.
Avoid bad habits: Many beginners buy boards too small or wide and struggle unnecessarily.
Try gear before you buy: Lessons let you test different boards under expert guidance.
At Epic, our instructors teach on real Florida water — from calm lagoons to light surf — so you’ll know exactly what to expect when paddling here. Read more: Why Take Paddle Board Lessons?
Can I rent or test paddle boards before buying in Cocoa Beach?
Absolutely. In fact, we recommend it. Our rental and demo program works like this:
1.Choose from a variety of boards in our inventory.
2.Take it out for a paddle, whether you want a quick lagoon session or a longer tour.
3.Talk with our staff about how it felt and what you liked or didn’t.
4.Apply the demo cost toward your purchase if you decide to buy.
This “try before you buy” model is perfect for locals and visitors alike. If you’re visiting Cocoa Beach for the weekend, a rental gives you a full experience without long-term commitment. For locals, demos are the smartest way to invest in gear that will last for years.
Stop by and rent or demo a paddle board today at Epic.
What features matter most when choosing a paddle board for Florida?
Not all paddle boards are created equal. These are the top features to look at when deciding:
Stability: The wider the board, the easier it is to balance. Great for beginners or paddling with kids.
Length: Longer boards glide faster; shorter boards turn more easily.
Material: Inflatables are portable and soft; hard boards offer speed and performance.
Use case: Touring, surfing, fitness, or casual paddling — match the board to your main activity.
Storage & transport: Inflatables pack small for condos and apartments. Hard boards need racks or a garage. See our Wingboard Racks Guide.
For Florida paddlers, stability and versatility often come first. But if you’re chasing waves at Sebastian Inlet or training for distance paddles, performance factors like length and construction matter more.
Ready to get on the water with the perfect board? Call us for a recommendation, demo or rental.
321-406-1964
[email protected]
Check out our full Paddle Board Collection to find the perfect SUP for Florida.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a permit to paddle board in Florida?
A: No permit is required, but a life vest is legally required for most paddlers. Always check local rules if paddling in state parks.
Q: What is the best time of year to paddle board in Florida?
A: Year-round is possible! Mornings in spring and fall offer the calmest, coolest conditions.
Q: Can I paddle board with kids in Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes. Many families enjoy calm paddles in the Banana River or Thousand Islands. Choose a wide, stable board and go early to avoid winds.
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