Stand-up paddle boarding has a lot of benefits, but it’s also just a lot of fun. Whether you’re looking to have a relaxing day on the water or race your friends up and down the beautiful Florida coast, you need the right stuff to make the best of your day.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s everything you need to bring for a great time paddle boarding.
What We Provide With a Paddle Board Rental
At 321 Boat, we give you the basics. With your paddle board rental, you’ll get the board, paddle, and as many life jackets as you need (excluding life jackets for pets). Other than that, it’s all up to you!
Clothing
As you glide over the ocean, you’re going to be in direct sunlight. A lot. Board shorts, bikinis, trunks and swimsuits are a great place to start, but you’ll want a couple of more things to protect your body and maintain a comfortable temperature in the sun and water.
Tops and Wetsuits
For a little more protection, pair your bikini bottom or board shorts with a rash guard, also known as a swim shirt. For total coverage, a wetsuit will keep you relatively comfortable no matter how many times you fall or decide to go for a quick swim.
Head Protection
As much as we all love the sun, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will protect your neck, shoulders and face from getting burnt. If you’ve never sunburnt your scalp, trust us — it’s a mistake you’ll only make once.
Safety
Even if you’re planning on paddling down the coast to take in the wildlife and greenery, it never hurts to be prepared for scrapes.
First Aid
A simple first aid kit with antibiotic cream and a few bandages will make sure a little fall won’t make your relaxing day uncomfortable.
Sunscreen
It may seem obvious, but always bring sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 sunscreen or higher to block out about 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. Reapply every two hours so you don’t get slow-roasted like a Thanksgiving turkey.
Miscellaneous
Those are the basics, but if you’re planning on paddle boarding all day, bring:
- Snacks — the Mayo Clinic recommends carb-rich foods like bananas and energy bars during long workouts
- Your phone and/or camera
- Water
- Insect repellant
Pack these items in a re-sealable, waterproof bag. For your phone or other electronic devices, waterproof cases are a must. Make sure they fit and work as advertised before you start your paddle boarding adventure.
Choosing A Paddle Boarding Location
Got it all? You just need one more thing — a fun place to explore while paddle boarding!
Just south of Orlando, 321 Boat in Melbourne, Florida, is surrounded by parks, islands and restaurants. The Indian River Lagoon is a beautiful area that’s packed with biodiversity and wildlife. You can fish, go dolphin watching, or just take in the sights and soak up the sun. Many places in Florida rent paddle boards, but with the pros at 321 Boat, you can add a little adventure to your vacation and be sure that you’ll have a great experience. We’ll do all the work for you and ensure that you have a great time exploring the area by paddle board. Contact 321 Boat today to get started!