The best places to paddle board on Florida's East Coast.

• Posted on 20 July 2025
• By Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic
• 0

Looking for the best places to paddle board on Florida’s East Coast? Whether you're visiting from Orlando, living along the Space Coast, or road-tripping from St. Augustine to Jupiter, this guide maps out the top paddleboarding spots, by vibe, by skill level, and by experience type. You’ll find calm lagoons perfect for first-timers, winding mangrove trails rich with wildlife, and more challenging inlets for seasoned paddlers who want to test their endurance.

Where can you paddle board near Cocoa Beach, Vero Beach, or Daytona? What’s the difference between paddling the Banana River Lagoon vs. the open Atlantic? And do you need to bring your own board, or can you rent when you get there? We’ll break it all down for you.

This guide covers:

• The best paddleboarding routes for beginners and families
  
  
• Advanced paddle spots with stronger currents and open water
  
  
• Wildlife hot zones where you might paddle alongside manatees or dolphins
  
  
• Pro tips for timing your paddle sessions right
  
  
• How to find gear, lessons, and rentals through Epic Boardsports

Whether you’re gliding through mangroves in Merritt Island or exploring Jupiter’s inlet, Florida’s East Coast delivers paddleboarding at every level. Let’s find your next session.

Where Can You Paddle Board on Florida’s East Coast?

Florida’s East Coast has a little bit of everything—calm, flatwater lagoons, tidal rivers, open Atlantic surf, and mangrove tunnels teeming with wildlife. The stretch from St. Augustine down to Jupiter offers diverse paddle environments that cater to all experience levels.

Most paddleboarders fall into one of three zones:

• Protected Lagoon Zones like the Banana River or Indian River Lagoon, ideal for beginners, eco-tours, and casual paddlers.
  
  
• Coastal Inlets & Ocean Launches like Fort Pierce or Sebastian Inlet, offering current, swell, and open water challenges for advanced riders.
  
  
• Scenic River Trails such as Turkey Creek or the Thousand Islands area, where winding paths and wildlife encounters make every session feel like an adventure.
  
  

The main thing to understand is lagoon paddling vs. ocean paddling:

• Lagoon = calm, safe, beginner-friendly. You’ll find glassy mornings, abundant wildlife, and no breaking waves.
  
  
• Ocean = wind, waves, and current. Great for downwinders and athletic paddlers, but less forgiving for newbies.
  
  

If you're staying in Cocoa Beach, you're in the sweet spot: the Banana River Lagoon to your west and Atlantic surf to the east. Same goes for Melbourne, Vero, Satellite Beach, and Fort Pierce—each has both lagoon and ocean access within minutes.

Pro Tip: Epic Boardsports has deep knowledge of every zone along the coast. Whether you're looking for a relaxing tour or a serious workout, we can steer you toward the right launch.

Is Cocoa Beach One of the Best Paddle Boarding Spots in Florida?

Absolutely, Cocoa Beach is one of the top paddle boarding hubs on Florida’s East Coast, especially for beginners, families, and wildlife lovers. With its combination of calm lagoon waters, scenic mangrove trails, and easy beach access, there’s a reason locals and tourists keep coming back here to paddle.

Jenifers Top spots around Cocoa Beach:

• Banana River Kayak Launch (Cape Canaveral Public Park)
  Open 24/7 and tucked near the canal lock, this is a wildlife magnet. Expect more manatees, dolphins, and coastal birds than almost anywhere else nearby. There’s even a bird nesting island for the avid birders. This launch is a must for nature-focused paddlers. Bonus: bioluminescence can light up the water on summer nights. We love this for the free parking and the abundance of wildlife here.
  
  
• Ramp Road Park
  This one has two boat ramps, but they can get slippery—Jenifer recommends the sandy launch area just past the bathrooms near the tennis courts. It’s perfect for beginners: no barnacles, no slipping, just a soft, stable entry. This is also free parking and easy access for touring.
  
  
• Thousand Islands (Banana River)
  Launch from Manatee Sanctuary Park or Ramp Road and head into a maze of mangrove tunnels, hidden lagoons, and quiet backwaters. Calm, protected, and rich with wildlife—it’s one of the best beginner paddle zones in the state.
  
  
• Jetty Park (Ocean Side)
  If you’re ready to try the ocean, this is the spot. Especially in winter. When north winds hit, the south side of the jetty stays clean and rideable. Jenifer says it’s the best shelter on those windier days. You’ll have to pay to enter, but it’s worth it for showers, bathrooms, and cleaner wave conditions. We also find the waves here to be the most beginner friendly. The bottom here is shallow and hard packed so the breaks are predictable and mellow.
  
  
• Cherie Down Park
  A free alternative to Jetty Park. The waves are a bit rougher and less consistent, but it works for beginners who want to dip into ocean paddling without paying for access. On a north wind, you can still find smaller waves here and get a lot of the amenities from jetty park for free.
  
  
• 4th Street North (Epic’s Home Break)
  Just steps from Epic Boardsports, this spot is a local favorite when the sandbar is working, which it definitely is right now. The paddle out is short, the wave is friendly, and the convenience is unbeatable. Conditions change seasonally, but when it's on, it’s one of the best low-key spots to ride. This is a bit of a local secret but all are welcome if you come with a smile and respect for the local riders here. Some years the sandbar lines up differently but lately we’ve just been riding here.
  
  

Who it’s best for:

• Beginners and families who need calm conditions and safe launches
  
  
• Wildlife lovers looking to paddle with dolphins and manatees
  
  
• Locals and returning visitors who want a mix of lagoon and ocean access
  
  

Epic Boardsports is right in the middle of it all, with gear rentals, guided tours, and the local knowledge to help you pick the right spot based on wind, tides, and skill level. Whether you're walking over from your hotel or driving in from Orlando, this is your launch hub.

Who it’s best for:

• Beginners and tourists looking for calm, scenic paddles
  
  
• Families with kids who want short, safe excursions
  
  
• Nature lovers hoping to spot manatees, dolphins, or herons
  
  

Epic Boardsports is located right in Cocoa Beach and offers paddle board rentals and lessons tailored to every skill level. If you’re coming from Orlando for the day or just walking over from your hotel, we’ve got the gear, route tips, and local insight to set you up right.

What Are the Top Scenic Paddle Routes for Beginners?

It should spotlight mellow, wildlife-filled routes with shaded canals, calm waters, and photogenic views. We'll double down on places like Turkey Creek, Manatee Cove, and Banana River hot zones—reinforcing early morning as the best time to paddle and why.

Here's the draft:

What Are the Top Scenic Paddle Routes for Beginners?

If you’re new to paddleboarding or just want a mellow session surrounded by nature, Florida’s East Coast has some incredible scenic routes tailored for you. These aren’t high-traffic boat zones or open ocean breaks—these are calm waterways where manatees, dolphins, and birds take center stage.

Top beginner-friendly paddle routes:

• Turkey Creek Sanctuary (Palm Bay/Melbourne)
  A peaceful, shaded river trail with overhanging trees, calm water, and a high chance of spotting turtles, manatees, and even the occasional gator sunning on the banks. There’s minimal current, making it ideal for beginners and photographers alike.
  
  
• Manatee Cove Park (Merritt Island)
  As the name suggests—this is manatee country. Paddle past mangroves and quiet coves, often with dolphins cruising nearby. Early mornings here are pure magic.
  
  
• Banana River Mangrove Trails (Thousand Islands)
  Launch from Ramp Road or Manatee Sanctuary Park and snake your way through mangrove tunnels and open lagoons. Shaded, calm, and brimming with wildlife, this area offers a little bit of everything: natural beauty, easy navigation, and a beginner-friendly pace.
  
  
• Banana River Kayak Launch (Cape Canaveral)
  Ideal for wildlife lovers. This launch gives you direct access to a more remote stretch of the lagoon, with dolphins, manatees, and bird nesting islands all within reach. Less boat traffic means a quieter, more immersive paddle.
  
  

Pro Tip:
Early mornings are your best friend. That’s when the wind is lightest, the water is glassy, and wildlife is most active. Plus, the lighting is perfect for photos. Bring a drybag or waterproof phone case if you want to capture the moment.

Epic Boardsports has all the beginner gear you need, stable boards, adjustable paddles, and drybags, plus maps, route advice, and insider tips. If it’s your first time, we’ll get you dialed in. Just call and ask for Jennifer to learn about her favorite locations and where she is riding this time of year. 

Where Can Advanced Paddlers Go for a Challenge on the East Coast?

If you’ve mastered the basics and are craving longer distances, open water, or tricky currents, Florida’s East Coast has plenty to offer. From inlets with tidal flow to ocean-facing launches that push your cardio and balance, this coast rewards experienced paddlers who want to level up.

Top spots for experienced paddlers:

• Fort Pierce Inlet
  Expect strong tidal movement and boat traffic, ideal for those who want to test endurance, balance, and navigation skills. Launch from the state park side for fewer crowds and access to both lagoon and ocean. Note that this is a popular wingfoil location. The North side of the jetty has an incredible state park and we love the nature vibes while the south side has restaurants, tourists, and a solid crew of locals always hanging out in the parking lot and on the beach.
  
  
• Jupiter Carlin Park

The parking is free, there are amenities and you can find plenty of shade on the beach. This is a popular tourist and kitesurfing beach so it can get crowded. The waves here can be large and rough depending on the conditions so always check the forecast. The water quality here is out of this world and you’ll love the vibes if you’re a good wave rider.

• Sebastian Inlet
  A favorite among hardcore watermen. You’re dealing with tidal flow, wave exposure, and variable wind. So come prepared. Best for paddlers with strong directional control and awareness of shifting water. We do not recommend this location for new riders. It’s a popular surf location, its full of wildlife and it can be too advanced for casual riders.
  
  

Safety Tips:

• Always check tides and wind before heading out.
  
  
• Wear a leash and bring a PFD if heading into current or open water.
  
  
• Use a drybag with essentials (phone, ID, water) and let someone know your route.
  
  

Need high-performance gear? Epic Boardsports has fast, touring-style paddleboards, carbon paddles, and ocean-ready leashes. Swing by before your session and we’ll make sure you’re dialed for distance or surf.

Can You Paddle Board with Manatees and Dolphins in Florida?

Yes—and the Florida East Coast is one of the best places in the country to do it. From Cocoa Beach down through Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral, the Indian River Lagoon system is home to a thriving population of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, and a huge variety of birds and marine life.

If your goal is to paddle with wildlife, these are your best bets:

• Banana River Kayak Launch (Cape Canaveral Public Park)
  Jenifer swears by this spot—and for good reason. It’s near the Canaveral locks, where manatees and dolphins often pass through as they move between the river and the ocean. It’s also one of the quietest launch zones in the area, which means more wildlife and fewer crowds. There's even a bird nesting island just offshore that attracts herons, ibis, pelicans, and roseate spoonbills.
  
  
• Manatee Cove Park (Merritt Island)
  As the name implies—this area is a magnet for manatees, especially in the warmer months. It's a calm, no-wake zone with excellent visibility and frequent dolphin sightings.
  
  
• Thousand Islands Mangrove Trails (Cocoa Beach)
  Paddle deeper into the lagoon through this twisting network of mangrove tunnels, and you’ll likely come face-to-face with wildlife. The calm water lets you glide silently—perfect for spotting fins and snouts ahead.
  
  

Wildlife Etiquette:

• Keep your distance—let manatees and dolphins approach you, not the other way around.
  
  
• Don’t feed or touch wildlife. It’s not just dangerous—it’s illegal.
  
  
• Stay out of marked sanctuaries or roped-off zones.
  
  

Epic’s guided eco-tours are built around this kind of experience. Our instructors know where to find the wildlife without disturbing it, and we’ll make sure your session is safe, respectful, and unforgettable.

Where Are the Best Paddle Boarding Spots Near Orlando?

Orlando might be packed with theme parks and resort pools—but if you're looking for a real paddleboarding experience, you’ll want to head east. In just under an hour, you can swap I-Drive traffic for dolphin sightings and glassy lagoon water.

Top coastal paddle spots near Orlando:

• Cocoa Beach (Banana River side)
  Just about an hour from downtown Orlando, Cocoa Beach is your gateway to the coast. The Banana River Lagoon is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone wanting a peaceful paddle without big ocean waves. Launch from Ramp Road Park or Manatee Sanctuary Park for the easiest access.
  
  
• Banana River Kayak Launch (Cape Canaveral)
  For wildlife lovers visiting from inland, this launch is worth the extra 10 minutes. You’ll get closer to the Canaveral locks, where manatees and dolphins are often spotted heading between river and ocean.
  
  
• Turkey Creek (Melbourne/Palm Bay)
  If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, Turkey Creek offers shaded river paddling, winding turns, and a totally different experience from wide-open lagoon water. Expect a slower, more tranquil feel with lush surroundings.
  
  

What about lakes in Orlando?
Sure—you can paddleboard on Lake Ivanhoe or Lake Conway, and they’re fine for a quick fix. But if you want wildlife, tide movement, and real coastal air, Cocoa Beach delivers a full experience. That’s why so many Orlando locals make this their weekend paddle escape.

Epic Boardsports offers day rentals, guided tours, and everything you need to turn your Orlando day trip into a real adventure. No need to lug gear from home—we’ve got your setup waiting.

Do You Need to Bring Your Own Paddle Board to Enjoy These Spots?

Nope—Florida’s East Coast is paddleboard-ready even if you don’t own gear. If you're flying in, driving over from Orlando, or just trying SUP for the first time, you can rent everything you need right here at the coast.

Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach offers:

• Hourly, daily, and weekly paddle board rentals
  
  
• Stable, beginner-friendly boards and lightweight paddles
  
  
• Leashes, drybags, and personal flotation devices (PFDs)
  
  
• Local guidance on the best launch spots based on the wind and tide
  
  

Traveling light? Here’s what to bring:

• Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing
  
  
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen)
  
  
• Water bottle and small snack (especially if you’re touring)
  
  
• Towel and change of clothes for post-session
  
  

We’ve got the board, paddle, and local insight covered. Just show up and we’ll get you on the water.

FAQs: Paddle Boarding on Florida’s East Coast

Q: Can you paddle board year-round on Florida’s East Coast?
A: Yes, paddleboarding is a year-round activity here. Summers bring calm mornings and warm water. In winter, early paddles are cooler but still glassy, especially in sheltered areas like the Banana River.

Q: Do I need a permit to paddle board in Florida?
A: No, recreational paddleboarding doesn’t require a permit. Just check for local launch fees or park access rules, especially in state parks or managed public facilities.

Q: What’s the best time of day to paddle board in Florida?
A: Early morning. That’s when the wind is lowest, the water is smoothest, and wildlife is most active. You’ll avoid boat traffic, get better photos, and have a more peaceful session overall.

Q: Can beginners paddle board in the ocean?
A: Yes, but pick the right spot. Jetty Park offers wave shelter on north wind days, making it ideal for first ocean sessions. For full beginners, we still recommend starting in lagoon water like the Banana River.

Q: Where can I see wildlife while paddleboarding?
A: The Banana River Kayak Launch near Cape Canaveral is a hotspot for dolphins, manatees, and birds. Thousand Islands and Manatee Cove Park also offer frequent sightings in calm, protected water.

Q: Can I rent a paddle board near Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes, Epic Boardsports has top-quality paddle board rentals for all levels. We offer flexible rental durations, plus gear and tips to help you launch with confidence.

Q: How long does it take to learn how to paddle board?
A: Most people get comfortable standing and paddling within their first session, especially on calm water. Taking a lesson or tour with Epic can speed up the learning curve.

Ready to Paddle Florida’s East Coast?

From the calm mangrove trails of the Banana River to the ocean breaks at Jetty Park and the wildlife-rich waters of Cape Canaveral, Florida’s East Coast has a paddleboarding spot for everyone—beginners, families, nature lovers, and seasoned paddlers alike. Whether you're local, visiting from Orlando, or just passing through, the experience is here waiting for you.

Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach is your trusted local source for gear rentals, expert advice, and guided paddle tours. We’ll help you pick the right board, launch spot, and route based on the day’s wind and tide—so you can make the most of your time on the water.

Ready to explore Florida’s coast by paddleboard?
Visit Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach or book your rental online today.

Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic