Los Angeles stand up paddle boarding isn’t just about the ocean (though that’s pretty epic). It’s about sunny mornings on calm harbors, winding through historic canals, and even paddling under the famous Santa Monica Pier. Whether you’re new to paddling or experienced, LA has endless places to explore.
Here are 15 of our favorite places to paddle board in and around LA, plus a few local tips so you can turn your paddle session into a perfect LA day.
1. Marina del Rey
Wide open harbor, tons of space, and usually pretty calm.
Tip: Paddle early, then walk over to enjoy some coffee and people-watching.
2. Malibu Surfrider Beach
Paddle crystal clear water on calm days, amazing views of Malibu Pier, and the occasional dolphin sighting.
Tip: Explore the pier and grab some fish tacos. Sunrise paddles are incredible here.
3. Mother’s Beach (Marina del Rey)
Super protected cove, almost no boat traffic, and perfect for beginners or families.
4. Cabrillo Beach (San Pedro)
Calm water inside the breakwater. Skilled paddlers can cruise outside for more adventure and epic views of the harbor.
Tip: Check out the historic Cabrillo Marine Aquarium afterward. It’s small, but a lot of fun.
5. Redondo Beach Harbor
Calm harbor paddling. Sea lions are often lounging around the buoys.
Tip: Head to Quality Seafood on the pier for super fresh fish.
6. Santa Monica Pier
There’s nothing more iconic than paddling under the Ferris wheel. This is best for experienced paddlers.
Tip: Grab a coffee and walk the boardwalk.
7. Malibu Lagoon
Quiet paddling among marshes, birds, and sometimes even rays.
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching!
8. Long Beach Naples Canals
Feels like Venice, Italy with California sunshine. It offers calm water and pretty homes to look at.
Tip: Dock your board, then walk over to grab brunch or pizza.
9. Alamitos Bay (Long Beach)
Calm bay that is perfect for beginners. It can be magical on quiet, summer evenings.
Tip: Finish your paddle with a burger and beer at Ballast Point Brewing overlooking the water.
10. Ballona Creek
An urban paddling adventure through concrete canals towards the sea. It is surprisingly peaceful.
Tip: End near Playa del Rey and spend some time relaxing on the beach.
11. Topanga Beach
It is less crowded than Malibu, but offers kelp forests and rocky coastline to explore.
Tip: When you’re done paddling, explore some funky, local shops.
12. Castaic Lake
Big freshwater lake north of LA. Calm water and great for long-distance paddles.
Tip: Pack a picnic and hang out at the beach when you’re done paddling. Mornings are usually glassy and gorgeous.
13. Pyramid Lake
It offers dramatic scenery, deep blue water, and smaller crowds.
Tip: There are picnic spots right by the water, perfect for lunch after a morning paddle.
14. Venice Beach
Endless beach and iconic Venice Boardwalk energy.
Tip: Post-paddle, grab some breakfast or people-watch on the boardwalk.
15. Lake Balboa (Anthony C. Beilenson Park)
A peaceful San Fernando Valley lake. Perfect for quick, evening paddles.
Tip: Bring a picnic or grab pastries from Porto’s Bakery in nearby Burbank.
Pro Tips for Los Angeles Stand Up Paddle Boarding:
Go early! Wind picks up in the afternoon (and it gets more crowded).
Check tides & swell if you’re heading into surf spots.
Bring your inflatable paddle board. Makes it easy to jump from Malibu in the morning to Lake Balboa by sunset.
Always wear a PFD! It doesn’t matter where you’re paddling.
Los Angeles stand up paddle boarding has it all. Experience classic surf breaks, secret canals, and calm mountain lakes.
So inflate board, load up some snacks, and see LA the best way possible: from your paddle board.
Need a board? Check out the Paddle North fleet to find one that’s right for you.
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