Stand up paddle boarding is a traditional Hawaiian sport and is currently the world’s fastest growing water sport. It originated with the beach boys of Waikiki in the 1960s after which it died out before enjoying resurgence recently. It involves standing on a large surf-like board and propelling oneself with a single blade paddle. It is easier to learn than surfing and is suitable for all ages and abilities. It promotes balance, strength, core fitness and co-ordination and it provides an amazing full body workout. Enjoy excellent views of everything from the sea life below to the amazing Burren scenery surrounding Galway Bay. It’s almost like walking on water.

Bay SUP is run in association with Aloha Surf School who have been providing water sports instruction for 15 years. They run paddle boarding lessons, tours and rentals from the village of Ballyvaughan in North West Clare. This corner of Galway Bay is situated in the heart of The Burren and is one of the most scenic locations of the Wild Atlantic Way.

They use high-quality paddle boarding equipment. The boards are from Red Paddle Co and are the some of the best inflatable stand up paddle boards available. All equipment is supplied for the lessons including paddle board, paddle, wetsuit and buoyancy aid, all that is needed is swim gear, a towel, enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.

All of the Bay SUP instructors are fully qualified ASI SUP coaches and ISA surf instructors, Beach lifeguards, are Garda vetted and have received training and certification in Child Protection.

They offer group and private stand up paddle board lessons, rentals, summer camps and SUP tours. They offer introductory lessons for those with no paddling experience and tours for those who have done a lesson and know the basics. All of the paddling is done on flat water conditions in and around the bay of Ballyvaughan. During the lesson, they will take groups in and around the incredible coastline of the Burren, where customers get to see the sea life underneath, cruise alongside the seals basking on the rocks, and get a unique tour of this incredible part of the world.

Come and find out why this is the world’s fastest growing water sport and take the opportunity to give it a go in the unofficial capital of The Burren, one of the most fascinating places in the world.