Brighton & Hove: Stand Up Paddleboarding Taster Session

Trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in Brighton’s Hove Lagoon is a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure to your seaside trip. This 1.5-hour session, led by knowledgeable instructors from Lagoon Watersports, offers an approachable introduction to this popular water activity. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the water, this experience promises fun, safety, and plenty of memorable moments.

What really makes this stand out is the flat, shallow water of Hove Lagoon, which creates an ideal environment for learning. The small group sizes—limited to just six participants—mean you’ll get personalized attention, making the experience feel more like a friendly lesson than a crowded class. Plus, the inclusion of all necessary equipment and a safety briefing ensures you can focus on having fun without worries.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—although sessions run rain or shine, extremely windy conditions or lightning storms can cause activities to be canceled for safety. Still, most days the conditions are suitable, and you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water. This experience is best suited for those aged 14 and up who want a relaxed, guided introduction to paddleboarding in a controlled setting.

This SUP taster session is perfect for travelers who want a low-pressure, authentic water activity that combines expert guidance, safety, and beautiful surroundings. It’s a great way to try something new and get a taste of the skills needed to enjoy paddleboarding confidently in the future.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: The shallow, flat water at Hove Lagoon makes learning easier and safer.
• All equipment provided: Wetsuits, paddles, buoyancy aids, and boards are included, removing the hassle of extra gear.
• Expert instruction: Trained instructors from BSUPA offer personalized coaching and safety tips.
• Small group size: Limited to six participants, ensuring everyone receives individual attention.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now, pay later for added flexibility.
• Family and age restrictions: Suitable for those aged 14 and above; not designed for children under 14.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Paddleboarding at Hove Lagoon

If you’re looking to try paddleboarding for the first time, this session in Hove Lagoon offers a perfect blend of safety and fun. The instructors, all trained by BSUPA, are clearly experienced and approachable. As you listen to the safety briefing and watch a quick on-land demonstration, it’s evident that your well-being is a priority. The fact that the water is shallow and calm makes it easier to get comfortable on the board, especially for those new to the sport.

We loved the way the session starts with practical tips—learning how to carry the equipment, then progressing to kneeling and finally standing up on the board. The instructors emphasize simple, easy-to-grasp techniques, which help build confidence quickly. And once on the water, you’ll enjoy the smooth, flat surface that’s ideal for practicing basic paddling skills.

The Learning Environment

The lagoon’s environment plays a significant role in the quality of this experience. Its calm, shallow waters mean you won’t be battling waves or strong currents, which can be intimidating for first-timers. Many reviewers noted how comfortable they felt as they practiced self-rescue techniques and turns under expert guidance. This is critical because mastering these skills in a controlled setting gives you the confidence to explore further on your own later.

The Instructor Experience

One of the standout features, based on feedback, is the knowledge and friendliness of the instructors. They are patient, clear, and willing to answer questions, making sure everyone feels safe and supported. For example, a reviewer mentioned how their instructor, who remained calm and encouraging, helped them overcome initial fears of falling in. This personalized approach can turn a nervous beginner into a confident paddler in just a short time.

Equipment and Facilities

All necessary gear—wetsuits, buoyancy aids, paddles, and boards—is included at no extra charge. The wetsuits come in various sizes, so you can expect a comfortable fit, especially on cooler days. After your paddleboarding session, you can make use of the clubhouse, which offers hot showers, changing rooms, lockers, and a cozy café. These amenities add convenience, especially if you’re planning to explore more of Brighton or Hove afterward.

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Practical Aspects

The duration of 1.5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to learn basic skills and get comfortable, but not so long that you get fatigued. Sessions are scheduled throughout the day, so you can choose a time that suits your plans. Prices are reasonable considering the inclusive equipment, instruction, and facilities—making this a good value for a memorable water adventure.

Booking and Cancellation

The flexible booking options—reserve now, pay later—are particularly helpful if your plans are uncertain. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book confidently, knowing you can change your mind if needed. Small group sizes help maintain a relaxed atmosphere and ensure you’re not just another number in a large class.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This paddleboarding taster is best suited for travelers who want a beginner-friendly introduction to water sports without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect if you’re curious about paddleboarding but unsure where to start. Since the session is led by skilled instructors and takes place in a safe, shallow environment, even those with no prior experience can feel confident and have fun.

It also appeals to those who appreciate authentic, outdoor activities that combine learning and leisure. Families with teens aged 14 and up will find this a great outing, especially because the small group setting and safety measures ensure a secure environment. If you’re visiting Brighton or Hove and looking to add a bit of adventure to your seaside trip, this SUP taster session is a solid choice.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The experience begins at the Hove Lagoon meeting point, where you’ll check in and receive your safety briefing from your instructor. You’ll then head to the clubhouse, where all equipment is prepared and fitted. Expect a quick on-land demonstration on how to get up on the board, which is straightforward and designed for beginners.

Following this, it’s time to get onto the water. The shallow lagoon makes it easy to practice kneeling and standing up, with instructors nearby to offer guidance. Many reviewers mentioned how the practice sessions helped them overcome initial fears of falling, emphasizing the importance of skilled, supportive guidance.

You’ll learn basic paddle techniques, including straight-line paddling and turning, along with essential safety and rescue skills. The water’s flatness means you can focus on mastering these basics without worrying about choppy conditions.

The session concludes with some time to paddle around, enjoying the scenery and feeling confident enough to try out the skills you’ve learned. Afterward, you can change, shower, and relax in the clubhouse before heading off—perfect for wrapping up a fun and productive day.

Practical Tips for Your Paddleboarding Day

• Wear a wetsuit if you tend to get cold; it’s included in the package, so no extra cost.
• Bring a change of clothes and a towel, especially if you plan to continue exploring Brighton afterward.
• Use sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during your time on the water.
• Water shoes or sandals are recommended to keep your feet comfortable and protected.
• Arrive a little early to get fitted with gear and settle in, especially if you want to ask questions beforehand.
• Check the weather forecast; although sessions run in most weather, extremely windy days may lead to cancellations for safety.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
This session is not suitable for children under 14. It’s designed for beginners aged 14 and older who are comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, a change of clothes, and water shoes. All paddleboarding gear is provided.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking policy also allows you to reserve now and pay later.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The sessions run in most weather conditions, but if there’s extreme wind or lightning, the activity might be canceled for safety reasons.

How long is the session?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including instruction, practice, and paddling time.

Are the groups large?
No, groups are limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is prior experience necessary?
No prior experience is needed. The session is tailored for beginners with safety and comfort as priorities.

Where exactly does the activity take place?
At Hove Lagoon, Kingsway, Hove, East Sussex BN3 4LX, easily accessible from Brighton and the surrounding area.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, safe way to try paddleboarding in a supportive environment, this Hove Lagoon session hits the mark. It offers the right mix of professional instruction, beautiful surroundings, and practical equipment to help you get comfortable on the water quickly. The small group setting ensures an intimate experience, making it easier to ask questions and receive tailored guidance.

This experience is especially valuable for newcomers to paddleboarding or for anyone wanting a gentle introduction without the intimidating waves of open sea. The facilities, flexible booking, and expert instructors make it a dependable choice, whether you’re visiting Brighton for a day or looking to add a new activity to your holiday.

For those who want to try something active and different, this session delivers a memorable, confidence-building water adventure perfect for making the most of your trip to the Sussex coast.

Whether you’re seeking a new hobby, a fun activity for friends or family, or simply want to enjoy the water in a relaxed setting, this paddleboarding taster in Hove Lagoon offers great value and an authentic experience that you’ll remember long after you’ve left the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: