13 Best Places to Paddle Board in Canada

Discover the true north strong and free on a paddleboard!

Have you ever imagined gliding across pristine lakes with breathtaking mountain backdrops?

The best places to paddle board in Canada are waiting to be explored.

Embark on an unforgettable Canadian adventure as we ride across the tranquil waters of this beautiful country. Are you ready?

Map

Where to Paddle Board in Canada

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 Banff National Park

• Location Type: Mountain Lake
• Access Point: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Two Jack Lake (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, glacier-fed lake waters, can be slightly windy
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Elk, deer, and occasionally bears nearby, fish species in the lakes
• Landmarks & Views: Rocky Mountains, Victoria Glacier, Valley of the Ten Peaks
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Banff Park permits required, use caution around wildlife, respect nature

Banff National Park is a world-renowned destination for its stunning turquoise lakes and incredible mountain landscapes.

Paddleboarding on Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Two Jack Lake offers unparalleled views of the iconic Canadian Rockies and glacier-fed waters. Embrace the serenity of nature while exploring the majestic surroundings of Banff National Park.

#2 Tofino, British Columbia

• Location Type: Oceanfront
• Access Point: Mackenzie Beach, Chesterman Beach (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Ocean swells, tidal currents, and varying wind conditions
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea lions, whales (seasonal), and various seabirds
• Landmarks & Views: Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and old-growth rainforest
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in open ocean, be aware of changing weather conditions, respect wildlife

Tofino, located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is a mecca for water sports enthusiasts. The beautiful beaches and dramatic coastline offer a thrilling paddleboarding experience, with a chance to spot seals, sea lions, and even whales in season.

Paddle through the serene coves or challenge yourself on the open ocean swells in this picturesque Pacific paradise.

#3 Toronto Islands, Ontario

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Toronto Island Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm Lake Ontario waters, can be windy
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Fish species, water birds
• Landmarks & Views: Toronto skyline, beaches, lagoons, and green spaces
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, be aware of changing weather conditions, respect park rules

The Toronto Islands offer a unique urban paddleboarding experience, just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto.

With calm waters and tranquil lagoons, the Islands provide a quiet contrast to the busy city life. Enjoy unmatched views of the Toronto skyline while paddleboarding in Lake Ontario. You can also check out a game of the Toronto Blue Jays.

#4 Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Canoe Lake, Smoke Lake (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, forested lakes with occasional wind
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Moose, beavers, loons, and various fish species
• Landmarks & Views: Boreal forests, natural lakeshore, and Canadian Shield landscapes
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for portages and changing weather conditions, respect park rules

Algonquin Provincial Park is a quintessential Canadian wilderness experience. Explore its numerous interconnected lakes with a paddleboard, and discover the park’s diverse wildlife.

Surrounded by boreal forests and the rugged Canadian Shield, Algonquin provides natural beauty and serenity that every paddleboarder will adore.

#5 Kelowna, British Columbia

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Boyce-Gyro Beach Park, Rotary Beach Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake waters, mild wind conditions
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Fish species, water birds
• Landmarks & Views: Okanagan Lake and surrounding wine country
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, be aware of changing weather conditions, respect park rules

Kelowna, located in the heart of British Columbia’s wine country, offers spectacular paddleboarding on Okanagan Lake. With sandy beaches and warm waters, it’s an ideal spot to launch your paddleboard and explore beautiful shoreline vistas.

Paddling on the vast Okanagan Lake, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, is a must-do experience.

#6 Ottawa River, Ontario

• Location Type: River
• Access Point: Remic Rapids Park, Westboro Beach (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, protected from strong winds
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Fish species, water birds
• Landmarks & Views: Parliament Hill, Canadian Museum of History
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Avoid during high water, respect river rules

As Canada’s capital city, Ottawa offers an urban paddleboarding experience combined with historic landmarks, like Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History.

Paddle the calm waters of the Ottawa River and enjoy stunning views of the cityscape, while surrounded by nature and wildlife.

#7 Howe Sound, British Columbia

• Location Type: Oceanfront
• Access Point: Horseshoe Bay, Porteau Cove (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate tidal currents, ocean swells, and varying wind conditions
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea lions, dolphins, and various seabirds
• Landmarks & Views: Coastal mountains, islands, and fjords
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in open ocean, be aware of changing weather conditions, respect wildlife

Howe Sound is a breathtaking fjord located along the Sea-to-Sky Highway in British Columbia.

With stunning oceanfront views and coastal mountains as a backdrop, this paddling destination offers a picturesque adventure for every paddleboarder. Glide past rugged shorelines, tiny islands, and enjoy wildlife encounters as you explore this unique destination.

#8 Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, Alberta

• Location Type: Mountain Lake
• Access Point: Maligne Lake Boat Launch (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, chilly glacier-fed waters
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Elk, deer, and various fish species, birds
• Landmarks & Views: Spirit Island, majestic Rocky Mountains, surrounding forests
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect local rules, be prepared for high altitude and sudden weather changes

Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park offers a serene paddleboarding experience amid the towering Canadian Rockies.

With its tranquil glacier-fed waters and the iconic Spirit Island, this mountain lake promises an unforgettable adventure. Surrounded by thriving forests and a rugged landscape, Maligne Lake should be on every paddleboarder’s bucket list.

#9 Kootenay Lake, British Columbia

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Kaslo or Nelson (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake waters, occasional winds
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Fish species, water birds, deer on the shoreline
• Landmarks & Views: Mountain ranges, picturesque shoreline
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Be wary of boat traffic, adhere to designated zones, and respect local rules

Kootenay Lake, nestled within the mountains of British Columbia, provides miles of beautiful shoreline to explore.

Its calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding, and the surrounding scenery offers serenity and peace. Discover the picturesque shores and abundant wildlife while enjoying a leisurely paddle on Kootenay Lake.

#10 Bow River, Calgary, Alberta

• Location Type: River
• Access Point: Sandy Beach Park, Edworthy Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, typically calm to moderate wind conditions
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Trout, water birds, deer on shoreline
• Landmarks & Views: Peace Bridge, Calgary skyline, tree-lined riverbanks
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Avoid during high water, respect private properties, adhere to river regulations

Bow River flows through the heart of Calgary, offering a unique and picturesque urban paddleboarding adventure.

Navigate through scenic river valley parks, watch for wildlife, and enjoy views of Calgary’s skyline as you paddle along the gentle currents. A perfect escape from the hustle of urban life within the city limits.

#11 Harrison Lake, British Columbia

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Harrison Hot Springs (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, occasionally windy
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, ospreys, fish species
• Landmarks & Views: Coastal mountains, sandy beaches, and surrounding forests
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of changing weather conditions, respect local rules

At Harrison Lake, paddleboarders can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastal mountains and natural beauty.

Located near the scenic Harrison Hot Springs, this spot promises both adventure and relaxation. Experience the calm waters, sandy beaches, and explore the surrounding forests while floating along Harrison Lake’s scenic shoreline.

#12 Shediac Bay, New Brunswick

• Location Type: Bay
• Access Point: Parlee Beach (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate tidal waters, varying wind conditions
• Popular Seasons: Summer
• Wildlife Encounters: Clams, oysters, seabirds
• Landmarks & Views: Northumberland Strait, sandy beaches
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in open ocean, check tide conditions, and respect marine reserves

Shediac Bay, located in the beautiful province of New Brunswick, offers a distinctive Atlantic Canada paddleboarding experience.

With the warmest waters north of Virginia, Shediac Bay’s calm tidal waters are perfect for both beginner and experienced paddleboarders. Explore the Northumberland Strait, enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches, and immerse yourself in picturesque scenery.

#13 Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario

• Location Type: Canal
• Access Point: Dow’s Lake (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, still waters
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Fish species, water birds
• Landmarks & Views: Historic canal locks, Ottawa cityscape
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic and obey canal rules

Experience Ottawa’s historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a paddleboard. The calm and still waters of the canal make it an ideal spot for all skill levels.

Glide past the city’s charming neighborhoods, historic canal locks, and waterfront parks, while enjoying a unique paddleboarding adventure in the heart of Canada’s capital.

FAQ