When you think of the Bahamas, you think of turquoise waters, lush islands, and clear skies. Basically, complete heaven.
The Bahamas are all about water, tidal creeks, tropical waters, and mangrove lagoons. There’s no better place to paddleboard than here.
Paddleboarding is about balance, peace, and zen, and it’s fair to say you’ll find all of those in the Bahamas. The warm weather, the crystal-clear water, and numerous adventures spots are the paddleboarder’s dream.
Not to mention encountering beautiful wild animals in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In short, there is no reason why you shouldn’t go there. So to help you along, we’ve gathered a list of paddleboarding spots to try out while you’re there on vacation.
Table of Contents
#1 Shroud Cay
Shroud cay is located on the southeast of Nassau. Being part of Exuma Land and Sea Park, the waters surrounding Shroud Cay are protected to aid aquatic life preservation. So please be respectful to the local wildlife and the environment while you’re there so we can all enjoy their beauty for years to come.
The narrow and shallow tidal creek is surrounded by a network of mangroves, making the Shroud Cay inaccessible for larger boats but perfect for kayaks and paddleboards. The narrow passage of water provides an ideal paddle boarding route.
The water, while visually stunning, isn’t ideal for beginners. The tides in the creek are a bit too hasty, making it quite difficult to paddleboard if you’re not experienced. While you’re here, be sure to keep a lookout for the exotic species of fish that can be seen right through the clear water.
#2 Staniel Cay
The Bahamas is the hub for many water-based sports and hobbies. Staniel Cay is one of those places that just has it all. Whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, fishing, or paddleboarding. The water here is pretty calm and mellow. Good for both beginners, kids, and experienced paddlers.
But!
The main attraction here is the pigs. The SWIMMING PIGS! Yes, you read that correctly. Staniel Cay has one secluded island nearby called Big Major Cay.
Big Major Cay is where the pigs live. Those pigs are pretty docile and friendly, and many tourists take a bag of fruit to feed them.
By all accounts, it’s an unmissable opportunity and worth the effort.
#3 Harbour Island
What makes Harbour island stand out from the rest is the pink sand. The contrasting colors of the pink sand and the blue sky are something you have to witness at least once in your life.
To top that off, Dolphins tend to visit the island’s surrounding water. So be sure to keep an eye out for them. Paddleboarding in the waters here is a pretty serene experience, but with dolphins near your SUP, it’s out of this world.
It’s worth noting that some maps will show the islands name as “Harbor Island” but the correct spelling is “Harbour”
The island is quiet, and people can get around it with golf carts. If you need some peaceful time for inspiration. This is the place for you.
#4 Compass Cay
Compass Cay is part of the Exuma Island chain. Like Harbour Island, Compass Cay is on our list of must-visits.
This is one of the best family spots. The white sand and turquoise water set the perfect tone for sun-bathing. The aquatic diversity and shallow waters are perfect for letting the kids roam around and play.
The pet nurse sharks and colorful conches will make it a memorable experience for the kiddos.
As for SUPing, this place is the best for experienced folks. The tide on the deep end tends to get a bit unpredictable.
Tip: Do not forget to bring a SUP anchor. You’ll need it if the tides get too much to handle.
#5 Lyford Cay
If you’re traveling to Nassau, you have to visit Lyford Cay.
That’s just the unwritten rule. Lyford Cay is a private and quiet marina in the new Providence. It’s a private island with its own security system and even private schools. This island houses a few expatriates.
Surrounding the Lyford islands is a whole network of sheltered canals. These canals are full of turtles, jellyfish, and stingrays.
Paddleboarding in these waters will be a mesmerizing experience.
The waterfront houses around the canals are view on to themselves.
Side note, some of those houses are also on sale. Imagine waking up to the mesmerizing view of Lyford, the Bahamas, every day.
Lyford Cay is ideal for recreational paddleboarding. The distance between the Lyford cay and surrounding cays is a good distance for warm-up paddle boarding.
#6 Pearl Island Waters
With striking water and the breathtaking views Pearl Island will reel you in.
The protected coral reefs and the exotic sea life are ideal for a good swimming session and even deep-sea diving.
Pearl Island also has a few Cabanas that can be rented.
This will allow you to sleep under the stars and really enjoy the wonders of nature. Paddleboarding and snorkeling opportunities here are endless.
The water is calm and soothing. Boats and yacht routes also go through these waters. These boats can be used to take a ride back to Nassau.
Conclusion
The Bahamas is a country of vivid waters and scenic surroundings. There is no reason why you shouldn’t visit the Bahamas. Not only is the view soothing to the eye and pleasing to the heart, but the numerous activities and encounter experiences here can also really come together to make this the best possible vacation of your life.
People from all over the world come here to roam the waters and enjoy the view. The paddleboarding opportunities, sports communities, wildlife, greenery, hills, and canal routes make it the ideal SUP spot.
So get on a boat or a plane and head over to the Bahamas for your next paddleboarding experience.
Steve Frankland
Steve Frankland loves the outdoor life and getting out in nature. He loves writing and sharing knowledge. He's part of the team at thesupguru.com
He’ll find any excuse he can to get out on the water and can often be seen on a SUP with his kids and dogs.