The SB Post

Stoked on Stand Up Paddle Surfing

Gotta love a spring heat wave! When it's 80 degrees outside, the beach is definitely the place to be. As fate would have it, I had a date with Blueline Stand Up Paddle Surf this Thursday morning as the sun was shining and temperatures were climbing. A group of travel journalists from France was in town and learning to SUP (stand up paddle surf) was on their agenda. I had never tried the sport myself and decided it was high time I take the plunge along with them.

What's SUP? The ancient form of surfing became popular in Hawaii in the 1960's as a way for surf instructors to navigate around their students with greater agility. SUP boards resemble longboards, but are custom made with attention to the stability and buoyancy needed to accommodate an upright stance. The paddling technique requires balance and gives a great core work out -- it's often referred to as yoga on the water. Adventurous and athletic SUP-ers ride waves surf-style, and others just cruise along glassy waters, beyond the swells, as we did.

Blueline team members Chris and Genelle were waiting for us at Leadbetter Beach with the boards and paddles ready to go. They gave us a quick lesson on the sand -- how to position our legs and feet on the board, how to stand up once we got out to sea, how to stand (keep knees locked!) and maintain balance and how to paddle.

One by one, they helped us get past the breaking waves and onto our boards with the water at thigh level. Kneeling, we were told to paddle out to a buoy where we waited for Chris and Genelle to walk us through the standing up step. I will admit I was totally terrified because I really, really, really didn't want to fall in. (I'm a big chicken when it comes to being in water that's not clear...I prefer to see what's lurking beneath! Plus, I had to go into the office after our adventure!) Chris was a great coach and told me not to over think it. After a slight panic I was standing up, wobbling away and started paddling. We cruised around, getting tips on our paddling techniques and how to turn around. I managed not to fall in, though I had a few close calls! Those who did fall in were laughing hysterically, and got to practice the standing up part more. When it was time to head back in, Chris and Genelle helped us time our approach with the waves so as to sail right in to shore.

I can see why everyone loves their SUP! And why it's become so popular with our visitors. In addition to lessons, Blueline has an awesome retail shop in the Funk Zone and you can follow their SUP adventures all over the world on their blog. SUP rentals are also available through the Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara shop at the Harbor, which is conveniently located right next to Leadbetter Beach.