Sayulita SUP: Stand-up Paddleboarding on Mexico's Pacific Coast.

What’s SUP?

The latest water sport craze emerging in Sayulita is Stand Up Paddle boarding, also known as SUP. Whether catching small waves or cruising along the coastline, it’s a fun, full-body workout suitable for all ages. Many of the local surf schools also offer stand up paddle boarding rentals and lessons. Sayulita is the perfect place to learn this great new sport. Such a great place that Sayulita hosted the ISA World Stand Up Paddle Championship in 2015!

Stand Up Paddle is actually an ancient form of surfing originating in Hawaii. It re-emerged in the 1960's with the growing popularity of surfing. Hawaiian surf instructors would stand on their surfboards, using an outrigger canoe paddle to maneuver, in order to manage large groups of students and to take pictures of them learning to surf. In the early 2000's, Stand Up Paddle was made popular again by well-known surfers Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama and others, who were searching for a way to cross-train when the waves were flat. SUP is now called the fastest growing water sport in the world.

Stand Up Paddle in Sayulita

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fun, accessible activity for all ages in Sayulita. With warm water, scenic coastline, and the chance to spot fish and other marine life from your board, it’s an easy way to enjoy time on the ocean. While beginners should expect to fall a few times, a lesson can quickly help you build balance, confidence, and proper technique, especially in choppy or windy conditions. Surf schools typically rent paddle boards by the hour and this includes the paddle. 

Tips & Best Conditions

Early morning offers the calmest water, making it the ideal time to paddle. A popular route is heading south from the main beach toward Playa de los Muertos and Punta Sayulita, where you can explore rocky areas and clear water. Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and polarized sunglasses for better visibility into the water.

As your skills improve, you can try catching small waves, but always stay in control of your board and be mindful of others in the water. 

For those interested in giving SUP surfing a try, there are many fantastic instructors on the beach who can give you a great lesson.

Techniques: On the Water - Paddleboarding Stance

Here are a few tips to help you keep your balance as you stand upright on the paddleboard:

• Your feet should be parallel, about hip-width distance apart, centered between the rails (board edges). Don't stand on the rails.

• Keep toes pointed forward, knees bent and your back straight.

• Balance with your hips—not your head.

• Keep your head and shoulders steady and upright, and shift your weight by moving your hips.

• Your gaze should be level at the horizon. Avoid the temptation to stare at your feet.

• It's much like bicycling: When your forward momentum increases, your stability increases as well.