Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Paddle surf, or SUP (stand up paddle), means paddling while standing on a wide, stable board with a long paddle. In Tenerife it is done mainly in sheltered bays in the south, in three formats: a lesson to learn, a guided tour along the coast, or hire for those who already know how.
It is easy to get started, but the wind changes the experience a great deal. This page helps you choose a format and an area.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Paddling while standing on a board |
| Formats | Beginners’ lesson, guided tour, hourly hire |
| Areas | Sheltered bays and beaches in the south |
| Duration | Usually one or two hours. Depends on the provider |
| Level | Suitable for beginners in calm water |
| Key factor | The wind: in strong wind it gets much harder |
| Ability to swim | Highly recommended |
| Price | Depends on the format and duration |
Three formats
| Format | What it includes | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners’ lesson | Instructor, balance and paddling technique | You have never tried it |
| Guided tour | Route along the coast with a guide, sometimes with a snorkelling stop | You can already stay standing |
| Hire | Board, paddle and life jacket by the hour | You have experience and the sea is calm |
What happens in a lesson
- Briefing on the sand: posture, how to hold the paddle, how to get on and how to fall.
- The first few minutes kneeling in the water.
- Standing up and practising paddling and turning.
- A short route around the bay.
Who it suits
- Beginners with normal balance.
- Families with children, depending on the minimum age.
- Anyone looking for a calm activity and a good full-body workout.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim: you will fall into the water at some point.
- Days with wind or swell: even a good level may not be enough.
- Back or knee problems.
How to choose well
- Lesson, tour or hire?
- Which bay, and how sheltered is it?
- Are a life jacket and leash (the cord that attaches you to the board) included?
- Qualified instructor?
- Minimum age?
- What happens if it is windy?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Board and paddle | Included | Size according to your weight |
| Life jacket | Included | Sizes |
| Instructor or guide | In lessons and tours | Qualification |
| Wetsuit | At certain times of year | If needed |
Safety
- Always wear the life jacket and the leash.
- Do not go far from the coast with an offshore wind: it can push you out to sea.
- Respect buoyed swimming areas and boat traffic.
Weather and sea
- Mornings are usually calmer in the south.
- The afternoon wind can whip up waves and make it harder to get back.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format.
- Duration.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Swimwear and towel.
- A rash vest and water-resistant sun protection.
- A cap with a strap.
- Water.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Paddling sitting down, with more stability | Kayak and snorkelling in Tenerife |
| Learning to catch waves | Surf lessons in Tenerife |
| Seeing the seabed | Snorkellingling in Tenerife |
| Wind sports | Wingfoil lessons |
Frequently asked questions
Is paddle surf difficult?
In calm water, most people manage to stand up in their first lesson.
Do you need to be able to swim?
It is highly recommended, because falling into the water is normal.
Where can you do it in Tenerife?
In sheltered bays and beaches in the south.
Can I hire without a lesson?
Yes, if you have experience and the sea is calm.
What happens if it is windy?
It gets much harder. Companies usually change the time or date.