Your guide to paddle-boarding in Stanley

Looking to pick up an easy water sport this summer? If dragon boating and windsurfing are not up your alley, stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) may be the relaxing water sport you are searching for. SUP is for everyone, even if you don’t consider yourself particularly athletic or have huge muscles. We’ve tested the water for you and here’s how you can enjoy some sun and sea in Stanley.

Read more: Your guide to kayaking around Sai Kung Country Park

Getting there

From dragon-boaters to windsurfers, Stanley Main Beach attracts fun seekers and outdoor enthusiasts from all around town – especially during the summer months. To get there, simply take bus 6, 6X or 260 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus in Central. Or, for a shorter commute, board green minibus 40 which travels from Causeway Bay to Stanley Market.

Read more: Your neighbourhood guide to Stanley

Where to rent a SUP board

To pick up your gear, head down to the Aqua-Bound Centre on Stanley Main Beach. Located next to the staircase leading down to the beach, the water sports centre offers SUP equipment rental services and coaching sessions at affordable prices.

You can rent a board for one hour for $80 or the whole day for $350. Besides stand-up paddles, you can also find windsurfing, kayaking and wakeboard equipment here.

Led by professionally trained instructors, Aqua-Bound’s SUP classes cater to paddlers of all levels of experience. Join a private two-hour session for $1,100 or buddy up with a few friends and split the class fee.

While the centre boasts an abundance of boards and paddles, in case you’re planning to go on a crowded weekend, make a reservation online to secure your board. Buoyancy vests and wetsuits are also available for renting.

Tips for paddle-boarding

To get moving on your board, start by balancing on your knees and gradually try it out on your feet. Once you’ve got the hang of it, paddle around Tai Tam Bay and enjoy the sun and sea with no one in sight.

If you’re looking for something even more exciting, try doing yoga poses or a plank on the paddle board to challenge your balancing skills.

On holidays and weekends, sea traffic can be busy. Beware of speed boats skidding around and watch out for the waves. Make sure to keep track of time and reserve some energy for returning to the beach. Depending on the wind and the currents, paddling back may need a bit more hard work.

Hong Kong Aqua Bound Centre, Hoi Fung Path, Stanley, 8211 3876