Discover the coastal charm of Portsmouth, UK.
Ever dreamt of gliding across the serene waters of the Solent?
The best places to paddle board in Portsmouth await you.
Immerse yourself in its maritime beauty – are you ready to set sail?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Portsmouth
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Southsea Beach

- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: South Parade, Southsea (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, tidal currents, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals and dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Southsea Castle, Isle of Wight views
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of other water users, check tide times, follow local regulations
Southsea Beach is a popular spot for paddleboarding in Portsmouth, offering stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.
With its convenient location and easy access, Southsea Beach is a must-visit for both beginner and experienced paddleboarders.
#2 Hayling Island

- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: West Beachlands (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered waters, tidal currents, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Chichester Harbour, Langstone Harbour, distant views of Spinnaker Tower
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of other water users, follow local regulations
Just a short drive from Portsmouth, Hayling Island offers sheltered waters and stunning views of the surrounding harbours. It’s an excellent location for paddleboarders of all skill levels, with plenty of space to explore.
#3 Langstone Harbour

- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: North Shore Road (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered waters, tidal currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, seals, oystercatchers
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Langstone Windmill, Sinah Common, distant views of Portsmouth and Hayling Island
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, respect nature reserves and private property
Langstone Harbour, located between Portsmouth and Hayling Island, offers scenic, sheltered waters perfect for a calm paddleboarding experience. As you glide through the channels, enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding areas and rich birdlife.
#4 Port Solent Marina

- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Port Solent Marina (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, fish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Luxury yachts, waterfront restaurants, and shops
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic and respect marina rules
Port Solent Marina, just north of Portsmouth, offers a unique paddleboarding experience. With its calm waters and picturesque surroundings of luxury yachts and waterfront eateries, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely paddle.
#5 Chichester Harbour

- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: West Wittering Beach (Chichester) (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered waters, tidal currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Salterns Copse, Chichester Marina, distant views of Portsmouth
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, follow local regulations
Chichester Harbour, a short drive west of Portsmouth, offers a serene paddleboarding environment with its sheltered waters and picturesque views. Renowned for its birdlife, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a perfect escape from the city bustle.
#6 Bembridge Harbour, Isle of Wight

- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Bembridge Harbour slipway (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, tidal influence
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Wading birds, seals, fish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Bembridge Windmill, distant views of mainland
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic and changing tides, follow local regulations
Although slightly further afield, Bembridge Harbour on the Isle of Wight is worth the trip for an idyllic paddleboarding experience.
With its calm waters and stunning landscape, this tranquil haven offers fantastic views and abundant wildlife.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Portsmouth?
You can paddle board at Portsmouth Harbour, Langstone Harbour and Hayling Island, which are popular spots in Portsmouth.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Portsmouth?
No, there’s no requirement to register paddle boards in Portsmouth.
When is the best time to paddle board in Portsmouth?
The ideal time for paddle boarding in Portsmouth is from May to September when water temperatures are warmer.
