If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, British Columbia Canada, you’ve got to experience the abundance of outdoor activities available in this breathtaking city! With year-round opportunities for cycling, hiking, jogging, whale watching, kayaking, and more, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had. However, one water sport in particular has surged in popularity thanks to its ease of learning and versatility: paddle boarding! Paddle boarding in Victoria is a great way to spend a sunny day, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner. Thanks to a variety of excellent rental companies, idyllic weather, and calm, clear waters, Victoria’s shores offer an unbeatable paddle boarding experience.
What is Paddle Boarding?
Paddle boarding is when you stand on a large board called a stand up paddle board or SUP and propel yourself across the water’s surface using one oar, much like a canoe. SUPs can be inflatable, or hard fibreglass/epoxy with a long oar to allow you to reach the water while standing. As far as versatility goes, standing is the typical way to use and propel a paddle board, but you can comfortably sit or kneel on the board as well if standing seems like a dubious option. You’ll see a lot of families put kids on the SUP and take them for a little paddle, dogs are often spotted on these incredibly popular pleasure crafts and when you need to take a break, you can jump off your board for a quick dip, hop back on and relax in the sun until you’re ready to paddle again.
Paddle Boarding Equipment
Summer:
When you’re heading out for a day of summer paddle boarding, you’ll want to prepare with appropriate clothing. While our summers are rarely scorching, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun. A swimsuit layered under shorts and a t-shirt is recommended and if you have any UV protective, lightweight clothing that can be a good option. A wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are a must and make sure to lather up and bring along sport sunscreen of 30 spf or higher.
Winter:
Because Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada, you can often spot some dedicated paddle boarders heading onto the water even as the temperatures drop. If this is something you want to try, you’ll have to be properly equipped! It is important to wear a wetsuit or drysuit, gloves, and hood to stay warm in case you fall in the water. Additionally, you should wear appropriate footwear that will keep your feet warm and provide good traction on the board. If you need some help finding the right equipment, go to MEC or Ocean River Sports and ask the helpful staff to kit you out.
No matter what time of year it is, you’ll want to make sure you bring a life jacket and take the extra step to check the conditions and forecast – local water recreation enthusiasts swear by Big Wave Dave.
Where to Rent a Paddle Board in Victoria?
There are lots of options for your next paddle boarding adventure. Whether it’s your first time out and you’re looking for lessons and a tour or if you’re already comfortable and are just looking for paddle board rentals for a solo adventure, these companies are our go-to for all of your paddle boarding needs!
Fairway Gorge Paddling Club
2940 Jutland Rd #115, Victoria, BC V8T 5K6
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: Yes
- Guided Tours: No
- Sales: No
Palli Palli
Multiple locations
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: Yes
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: No
Paddle ‘n’ Go
285 Kerwood St, Victoria, BC V9B 1A2
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: Yes
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: No
Oak Bay Marina
1327 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC V8S 2N4
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: No
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: No
Ocean River Sports
Docks, 450 Swift St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S2
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: Yes
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: Yes
South Island SUP
273 Richmond Ave, Victoria, BC V8S 3X9
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: Yes
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: Yes
West Coast Outdoor Adventure
6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1
- Rentals: Yes
- Lessons: No
- Guided Tours: Yes
- Sales: Yes
Where to Paddle Board in Victoria?
If you’ve decided to set out on your own, there are lots of great places around Victoria for a day on your board. With both lakes and ocean to choose from, you really have so many option for a perfect paddle boarding adventure.
Ocean:
Gorge Waterway: Known simply as “The Gorge” to Victoria locals, this waterway is a narrow tidal inlet that connects Victoria Harbour to Portage Inlet and a walkable paddle boarding location for guests staying at an EMR property downtown Victoria. Here you can paddle past waterfront neighbourhoods, historic bridges, eelgrass meadows and massive kelp beds below the surface.
Inner Harbour: Located right downtown Victoria, this is a great place to adventure, but it’s important to make sure that the water traffic is low otherwise it can get a bit hairy! On slower days, paddling past all the downtown attractions provides a beautiful, new perspective on this heritage city.
Gonzales Bay: This beach is one of the most popular downtown beaches! Known for its soft white sand and warm shallows, this is also an incredible place to put in your paddle board. This sheltered cove offers incredibly calm waters and absolutely stunning ocean front homes set on the backdrop of Victoria’s signature ocean and mountain views.
Willows Beach: In one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Victoria is Willows Beach, a long sandy beach perfect to paddle board the length of if you’re a beginner and a great place to set off for an adventure if you want to venture a little farther.
Esquimalt Lagoon: With miles of stunning beachfront and a beautiful view of the Strait and the Olympic Mountains across the water, Esquimalt Lagoon is stunning. It’s also a great option for guests staying in Langford or those looking to avoid the often-crowded summer beaches in the downtown core
Tod Inlet: This historic, peaceful park is a beautiful place to explore by land or water and right on the shores of the Saanich Inlet. Gowlland Tod Park is gorgeous and densely forested, so this is a completely different paddling experience than the other urban sites listed.
Brentwood Bay: The sheltered waters of the bay offer calm conditions perfect for beginners to learn or for experienced paddle boarders to enjoy a leisurely paddle. The beautiful scenery of the bay and surrounding mountains make for a picturesque backdrop while exploring the bay’s many hidden coves and inlets.
Lakes:
Thetis Lake: One of the most popular lakes in the Victoria area, Thetis is a wonderful place to explore by paddle board when you’re staying in Victoria! Paddle boarding also gives you the advantage of a spot to swim from without having to compete for a highly coveted spot on the beach!
Langford Lake: The calm, warm waters of Langford Lake make it a great place for a paddle boarding adventure. The water is cool but isn’t as cold as the ocean and there are lots of shorefronts to explore as you paddle around.
Elk Lake & Beaver Lake: These lakes are uniquely joined with a narrow way between the two offering paddle boarders a uniquely large area to explore. This lake has numerous beaches and picnic areas, you’ll be able to paddle up for a bite and head back out for more exploring!
Matheson Lake: This stunning lake in Metchosin is a perfect place to go for a dip in a small lake, beat the summer heat and enjoy an easy-going day out paddling.
