Stand-up Paddle Surfing in Cape Town and Surrounds

The challenge, the workout and the essence of surfing all in one package

You've tried surfing, kite surfing and wind surfing but have you tried stand-up paddle surfing? Originating in Hawaii in the early 1960's it is a surface water sport and a variant of surfing where the surfer uses a paddle to move through the water whilst standing on a surf board. It is now one of the fastest growing water sports in Cape Town because it helps to develop a strong core, offers a higher vantage point than surfing to spot marine life and surf, provides good training for other water sports enthusiasts and the family appropriate sport suits all levels of fitness. With help from Cape Sports Centres Michael Callaghan we answer some FAQ's.

How do you do it?

The idea is to paddle out into the sea by moving over white water in a standing position. If you think you might get hit by rather than ride the wave turn and paddle back but if you're almost going to make it dive over or under the wave angling your body away from your board.

How do you choose the right equipment?

Shopping for equipment can be daunting as there are dozens of things to consider including fins, boards, paddles, deck pads and leashes but a board, board bag and paddle will set you back under R10 000.

Choosing a board is dependent on weight so a person of 100kg+ should opt for a board with more volume (10ft6 x 30 inches wide) and lighter riders could get away with something smaller (9ft6 x 28 inches wide). Whilst wide cruiser boards are ideal for first-time riders even larger boards (11ft3 and 13ft) are able to handle bigger surf.

Paddles are available in wood, fibreglass, carbon, plastic and aluminium. Carbon and fibreglass paddles are more expensive as they are more durable. Narrower blades are recommended for quicker strokes and wider blades are recommended for more powerful strokes.

Where are the best spots?

Stand-up paddle surfing can be done on virtually any body of water and Cape Town has a variety of spots including flat lagoons, jetties and canals. Popular locations include Muizenberg, Blouberg, Melkbostrand, Strand, Sunset Beach, Big Bay and Langebaan Lagoon. There are also a number of training centres based in Cape Town and Surrounds.

Cape Sports Centre:
Based on reliable wind from September to April Langebaan is the ideal spot for stand-up paddle surfing and Cape Sports Centre offer the latest equipment for rental  with shower facilities available after a long day on the water.

Langebaan Beach | +27 (0)22 772 1114

Surfstore Africa:
Muizenberg beach is a popular spot for beginners and Surfstore offer two hour stand-up paddle surfing lessons as well as a range of other activities including surfing, kite surfing, land sailing and scuba diving. Boards, paddles and wetsuits are also available for rental.

Nautilus Shopping Centre | Capricorn Beach | Sanderling Road | Muizenberg | +27 (0)21 788 5055

Do any stand-up paddle surfing events take place in Cape Town and are there any South African high achievers?

The Corban Summer Series:
The four day series held at Big Bay from the 16th-19th December each year includes racing, wave riding, down winders and endurance. "No matter what level you're at the summer Stand-up Paddle Series is created as a fun family event where everyone is a winner," says contest organizer Ivan van Vurren.

Primi Naish SUP Race Tour
This national SUP race series aims to develop Stand-up paddle racing in South Africa and to ultimately crown the South African stand-up paddle surfing national champion. The annual race takes place during October, November and December in Milnerton, Fish Hoek, V&A Waterfront and Simons Town with categories for men, women and juniors.

Stand-up paddle surfing has produced world-class South African athletes including South Africa's reining national race champion Greg Bertish, his brother Chris Bertish who came fifth in the Stand-up World Tour, Mavericks champion Grant "Twiggy" Baker and founder of Coreban International Ivan van Vuuren.

By Lisa Nevitt

Check out this short video to sample before you stand-up paddle:



Fancy making a splash? Read more about canoeing and kayaking in Cape Town and Surrounds.