Paddle Boarding in Scotland

Where to Paddle Board in Scotland

With its diverse landscapes and abundance of waterways, Scotland provides endless opportunities for paddle boarding enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning country. Whether you prefer calm lochs, rugged coastlines, or meandering rivers, there's a paddle boarding adventure waiting for you in Scotland. Many of the best places to paddle board are spaced out and this makes an inflatable paddle board perfect for transporting your gear between put-ins.

Paddle Boarding Near Edinburgh

Paddle boarding near Edinburgh offers a variety of scenic and accessible locations for enthusiasts to explore. Whether you're paddling along the sandy shores of Portobello Beach, exploring the tranquil waters of the River Almond near Dalmeny Estate, or venturing further afield to coastal towns like North Berwick and Cramond, Edinburgh and its surrounding areas promise an unforgettable paddle boarding experience for enthusiasts of all levels.

1. Portobello Beach: Located just a few miles east of Edinburgh city centre, Portobello Beach offers a convenient spot for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the sandy shore and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of the historic promenade and Edinburgh's skyline in the distance. Portobello Beach is a popular destination for water sports, with its calm waters and scenic surroundings perfect for paddle boarding.

2. Cramond: Paddle board along the shoreline near Cramond, a coastal suburb located to the northwest of Edinburgh. Launch your board from Cramond Beach or nearby Silverknowes Beach and paddle along the coastline towards Cramond Island, a tidal island that can be accessed on foot during low tide. Take in views of the Forth Bridges and the surrounding coastline as you explore this picturesque area.

3. Belhaven Bay: Venture eastward towards Belhaven Bay, located near the town of Dunbar, for a scenic paddle boarding experience. Launch your board from Belhaven Bay Beach and paddle along the coastline towards nearby John Muir Country Park, taking in views of the sandy beaches and rugged cliffs along the way. Belhaven Bay is a popular destination for water sports, with its wide open waters perfect for paddle boarding.

4. North Berwick: Explore the coastal town of North Berwick, located just a short drive from Edinburgh, for paddle boarding opportunities. Launch your board from North Berwick Harbour and paddle along the coastline towards nearby islands such as Bass Rock and Craigleith. North Berwick offers stunning views of the coastline and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a popular destination for paddle boarders.

Inverness and Surrounding Area

Whether you prefer exploring tranquil canals, majestic lochs, or scenic coastlines, Inverness and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for paddle boarding enthusiasts to enjoy Scotland's natural beauty on the water.

1. Caledonian Canal: Explore the tranquil waters of the Caledonian Canal, which stretches from Inverness to Fort William. Launch your paddle board from the Muirtown Basin in Inverness and paddle along the canal, taking in views of the surrounding countryside and historic locks along the way. The canal offers calm waters ideal for paddle boarding, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as otters and waterfowl.

2. Loch Ness: Paddle board along the legendary waters of Loch Ness, located just a short drive from Inverness. Launch your board from one of the designated spots along the loch's shoreline and paddle along the expansive waters, taking in views of the surrounding hills and forests. While you may not spot Nessie, you'll enjoy the serene beauty of Scotland's most famous loch.

3. Beauly Firth: Explore the Beauly Firth, an inlet of the Moray Firth located near Inverness. Launch your board from North Kessock or another nearby beach and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of the Black Isle and the surrounding countryside. The Beauly Firth offers calm waters and scenic surroundings perfect for paddle boarding.

4. Nairn: Venture eastward to the coastal town of Nairn for paddle boarding opportunities along the Moray Firth. Launch your board from Nairn Beach or nearby Culbin Sands and paddle along the coastline, exploring sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and wildlife-rich estuaries. Nairn is known for its beautiful beaches and offers a variety of paddle boarding experiences for enthusiasts of all levels.

5. Loch Ruthven: Discover the peaceful waters of Loch Ruthven, located just a short drive from Inverness. Launch your board from the designated area near the loch's shoreline and paddle along the calm waters, taking in views of the surrounding moorland and wildlife. Loch Ruthven is a designated nature reserve and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Oban

​​Oban is known as the 'Gateway to the Isles' and is just an hour south of Fort William. Its stunning coastal scenery and tranquil waters make it a great spot for paddle boarding.

1. Oban Bay: Explore the sheltered waters of Oban Bay, which stretches out from the heart of the town. Launch your paddle board from the Esplanade or one of the nearby beaches and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of the bustling harbor, the town's colorful buildings, and the surrounding hills.

2. Ganavan Sands: Ganavan Sands is a beautiful sandy beach located just a short distance from Oban town center. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, enjoying views of the nearby islands of Kerrera and Mull. Ganavan Sands offers calm waters and stunning views, making it an ideal spot for paddle boarding.

3. Kerrera Island: Paddle board across to Kerrera Island, which lies just off the coast of Oban. Launch your board from Oban Bay and paddle across the short stretch of water to Kerrera, where you can explore the island's rugged coastline and secluded beaches. Be sure to paddle around the southern tip of Kerrera to see the iconic Gylen Castle perched on the cliff edge.

4. Dunollie Castle: Paddle along the coastline towards Dunollie Castle, a historic fortress located just north of Oban. Launch your board from Oban Bay and paddle along the shoreline, taking in views of the castle and the surrounding coastal scenery. Dunollie Castle offers a picturesque backdrop for paddle boarding and is well worth a visit.

5. Loch Etive: For a more adventurous paddle boarding experience, explore the waters of Loch Etive, a sea loch located to the northeast of Oban. Launch your board from one of the designated spots along the loch's shoreline and paddle along the tranquil waters, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and lush greenery.

6. Sound of Kerrera: Paddle board along the Sound of Kerrera, the stretch of water that separates Kerrera Island from the mainland. Launch your board from Oban Bay and paddle along the sound, enjoying views of Kerrera's coastline and the surrounding islands. The Sound of Kerrera offers calm waters and stunning views, making it a scenic and enjoyable paddle boarding destination.

Inner Hebrides

The Inner Hebrides, with their stunning coastline and pristine waters, offer an abundance of picturesque spots for paddle boarding. Here are some fantastic locations to paddle board in the Inner Hebrides:

1. Isle of Mull: Mull is surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery and boasts numerous sheltered bays and beaches perfect for paddle boarding. Explore the waters around Calgary Bay, Loch na Keal, and Fionnphort for stunning views of the island's rugged coastline and diverse marine life.

2. Isle of Skye: Skye's dramatic landscapes and clear waters make it an ideal destination for paddle boarding. Launch your board from locations like Portree Harbour, Elgol, or Broadford and explore sea caves, hidden coves, and iconic landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr and the Cuillin Mountains.

3. Isle of Islay: Islay offers a unique paddle boarding experience with its whisky-distillery-dotted coastline and rich birdlife. Explore the waters around Loch Indaal, Kilnaughton Bay, and the Oa Peninsula for opportunities to spot seals, otters, and a variety of seabirds.

4. Isle of Tiree: Known for its pristine beaches and strong winds, Tiree is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Paddle board along the white sands of Balephuil Beach, Gott Bay, and Crossapol Bay, and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands.

5. Isle of Jura: Jura's remote and rugged coastline offers a sense of wilderness and adventure for paddle boarders. Explore the waters around Loch Tarbert, the Corryvreckan Whirlpool (with caution and local knowledge), and the Sound of Jura, where you might encounter seals, dolphins, and even basking sharks.

6. Isle of Coll: Coll's pristine beaches and turquoise waters provide an idyllic setting for paddle boarding. Launch your board from locations like Crossapol Bay, Feall Bay, and the beach at Arinagour, and paddle along the island's unspoiled coastline, taking in views of secluded coves and abundant marine life.

7. Isle of Iona: Iona's spiritual atmosphere and stunning beaches make it a tranquil destination for paddle boarding. Explore the waters around Iona Abbey, Martyrs' Bay, and the Bay at the Back of the Ocean, where you can paddle amidst ancient ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of neighboring islands.

Outer Hebrides

Paddle boarding in the Outer Hebrides promises unforgettable experiences amidst some of Scotland's most breathtaking coastal landscapes. Here are top spots for paddle boarding in the Outer Hebrides:

1. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris: Luskentyre Beach is renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering an idyllic setting for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the beach and explore the shallow waters along the coast, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

2. Scarista Beach, Isle of Harris: Scarista Beach is another beautiful beach on the Isle of Harris, with its golden sands and dramatic backdrop of mountains and hills. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, exploring the crystal-clear waters and enjoying views of the surrounding scenery.

3. Traigh Mhor, Isle of Barra: Traigh Mhor, also known as Barra Beach, boasts expansive stretches of golden sand and shallow waters perfect for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of nearby islands and the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon.

4. Vatersay Bay, Isle of Vatersay: Vatersay Bay is a picturesque bay on the southern tip of the Isle of Vatersay, offering sheltered waters and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, exploring hidden coves and sandy beaches along the way.

5. Bosta Beach, Isle of Lewis: Bosta Beach, located on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, is famous for its Iron Age house reconstruction and beautiful sandy beach. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, admiring views of the turquoise waters and rugged cliffs that characterize this stunning stretch of coastline.

6. Stornoway Harbour, Isle of Lewis: Stornoway Harbour offers sheltered waters and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the harbour and paddle along the coastline, exploring the bustling harbour area and enjoying views of the town and surrounding islands.

7. Loch Sgioport, North Uist: Loch Sgioport is a picturesque sea loch located on the Isle of North Uist, offering sheltered waters and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Launch your board from the shore and paddle along the loch, taking in views of the nearby hills and mountains reflected in the calm waters.

Perth and Surrounding Area

Paddle boarding in Perth, Scotland, offers a variety of scenic locations along the River Tay and nearby lochs. Here are some top spots for paddle boarding in Perth:

1. River Tay: The River Tay flows through the heart of Perth, providing ample opportunities for paddle boarding. Launch your board from North Inch Park or South Inch Park and paddle along the river, taking in views of the city skyline and surrounding countryside. The stretch of river between Perth and Scone Palace offers calm waters and scenic views, making it ideal for paddle boarding.

2. Loch Leven: Loch Leven is located just a short drive from Perth and offers a picturesque setting for paddle boarding. Launch your board from Kinross or one of the designated spots along the loch's shoreline and every paddle takes in views of the surrounding hills and wildlife. Loch Leven is a designated nature reserve and offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

3. Loch Tay: Loch Tay is situated a bit further from Perth but is worth the drive for its stunning scenery and excellent paddle boarding opportunities. Launch your board from Kenmore or one of the other access points along the loch's shoreline and paddle along the clear waters, surrounded by mountains and forests. Loch Tay is one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs and offers plenty of space to explore by paddle board.

4. Loch of the Lowes: Loch of the Lowes is located near Dunkeld, just a short drive from Perth, and offers a tranquil setting for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the reserve's visitor centre and paddle along the calm waters, taking in views of the surrounding woodland and wildlife. Loch of the Lowes is a popular spot for bird watching, and paddle boarding provides an excellent opportunity to explore the loch and its inhabitants.

Glasgow

Paddle boarding near Glasgow offers a variety of scenic waterways and coastal spots for enthusiasts to explore. Here are some top locations near Glasgow for paddle boarding:

1. Loch Lomond: Loch Lomond is one of Scotland's most iconic lochs and offers excellent paddle boarding opportunities. Launch your board from spots such as Balloch, Luss, or Balmaha and paddle along the tranquil waters, taking in views of the surrounding hills and islands. Loch Lomond is easily accessible from Glasgow and provides plenty of space to explore by paddle board.

2. River Clyde: The River Clyde flows through Glasgow and offers paddle boarding opportunities within the city. Launch your board from spots such as the Glasgow Science Centre or the Glasgow Green and paddle along the river, taking in views of the city skyline and historic landmarks. The River Clyde provides a unique perspective of Glasgow and is ideal for urban paddle boarding adventures.

3. Castle Semple Loch: Castle Semple Loch is located just a short drive from Glasgow and offers a peaceful setting for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the Lochwinnoch Watersports Centre and paddle along the calm waters, surrounded by woodland and wildlife. Castle Semple Loch is part of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and offers excellent facilities for paddle boarding enthusiasts.

4. Loch Ard: Loch Ard is situated within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and offers stunning scenery for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the designated spot at Kinlochard and paddle along the clear waters, taking in views of the surrounding hills and forests. Loch Ard is a tranquil loch with plenty of opportunities for exploration by paddle board.

5. Strathclyde Loch: Strathclyde Loch is located within Strathclyde Country Park, just a short drive from Glasgow, and offers paddle boarding opportunities on a man-made loch. Launch your board from the watersports centre and paddle along the calm waters, enjoying views of the surrounding parkland and wildlife. Strathclyde Loch is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts and provides a range of facilities for paddle boarding.

Aberdeen

Paddle boarding near Aberdeen offers a variety of scenic coastal spots and inland waterways for enthusiasts to explore. Here are some top locations near Aberdeen for paddle boarding:

1. Aberdeen Beach: Aberdeen Beach is a popular spot for paddle boarding, offering easy access to the North Sea. Launch your board from the sandy beach and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of the city skyline and historic landmarks such as Aberdeen Harbour and the Torry Battery. Aberdeen Beach provides ample space to explore the waters and enjoy a paddle boarding adventure close to the city centre.

2. River Dee: The River Dee flows through Aberdeen and offers paddle boarding opportunities within the city. Launch your board from spots such as Duthie Park or the Aberdeen Boat Club and paddle along the river, taking in views of the surrounding countryside and historic bridges. The River Dee provides a peaceful setting for paddle boarding and is ideal for exploring nature within the urban environment.

3. Loch Muick: Loch Muick is located within the Cairngorms National Park, just a short drive from Aberdeen, and offers stunning scenery for paddle boarding. Launch your board from the designated spot at the Loch Muick car park and paddle along the clear waters, taking in views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Loch Muick is a tranquil loch with plenty of opportunities for exploration by paddle board.

4. Stonehaven Harbour: Stonehaven Harbour is located just south of Aberdeen and offers paddle boarding opportunities in a picturesque coastal setting. Launch your board from the harbour and paddle along the coastline, exploring rocky coves and sea cliffs along the way. Stonehaven Harbour is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts and provides a range of facilities for paddle boarding.

5. Cruden Bay: Cruden Bay is situated north of Aberdeen and offers paddle boarding opportunities along its sandy beach and rugged coastline. Launch your board from the beach and paddle along the coastline, taking in views of the imposing cliffs and the North Sea. Cruden Bay is a scenic spot for paddle boarding and provides opportunities to explore hidden caves and rock formations.