The “newest” craze in Big Bear has been around in various forms for centuries, but today’s paddle boarders are no longer heading to war; they are just looking for a peaceful way to exercise! Originating in the 16th century, African warriors used the large flat boards as a way of attacking their enemies in a stealthy manner, but its current form originated in Hawaii in the 1940s. Since 2013, stand-up paddleboarding has been listed as the most popular outdoor activity among first-time participants according to the Outdoor Foundation’s Outdoor Participation Report. Today, paddleboarding has become America’s favorite way of helping to lose a few pounds and Big Bear has jumped on the SUP bandwagon. Stand-up paddleboarding is a must-try activity during your next Big Bear vacation.
What Is Stand-Up Paddleboarding?
Often referred to as the abbreviation SUP, participants use a board resembling an oversized surfboard and a paddle to move through the waters. Standing on the top of the paddle board, paddle boarders will use the long paddle from the standing position to propel the board forward and glide over the top of any body of water. The act of paddle boarding generally doesn’t set any speed records, but you will gently flow through the water and really be able to take in the natural beauty around you. Using your core body strength helps keep muscles toned and trim, and the soothing sounds and feel of the waters you are gliding through offers a peace not often found in a workout. Many yoga studios have added SUP to their routine, with yogis performing standard yoga routines while on the boards. SUP yoga generally uses a wider board to increase ease of poses with a soft and non-slip surface in the middle of the board for better grip.
As the sport has become so popular, it may be difficult to narrow down your choices as to the best places to rent the equipment, or take classes, so we’ve included the following list of our favorite Big Bear paddle boarding places.
Get Boards-Kayaks, Bikes & SUP Rentals, 40905 Big Bear Boulevard
Outdoor sports are big in Big Bear, and this fun store is a one-stop-shop for all forms of athletic activity! Offering seasonal rentals of all forms, their paddleboards are guaranteed to be in good condition and come with all equipment necessary. Their paddleboard rentals include all necessary gear for a minimum of two hours for $35, but you can upgrade your rental to a half-day or full-day for $55 or $85, respectively. If you are booking with a large group, you will actually get a discount. Groups of ten or more people will get 15% off the cost of the base rental. With SUP you can generally launch from anywhere on the lake, but Getboards actually has a private dock where you can launch for only $2.50 added to your reservation, and staff will assist you with your launch.
Big Bear Marina, 500 Paine Court
Specializing in water sport equipment, their large selection of Big Bear paddle boarding equipment is colorful, safe, and reasonably priced. Also a great place for renting kayaks, wave runners, and pedal boats, Big Bear Marina offers adventures for all members of your family! Big Bear Marina offers rentals of SUP boards from their facility. They offer Hobie 11-foot 4-inch boards for rent at $25 an hour with a security deposit of $50. You can launch your rental boards from anywhere in the Marina for no cost.
Paddles and Pedals, 40545 North Shore Lane
Dealing in kayaks, bicycles, and stand up paddleboards, this store is only open seasonally. If you want to get in on their great deals, you better hurry: Paddles and Peddles closes November 1st and doesn’t open again until May 1st! Paddles and Pedals offers paddleboard rentals by the hour. You are able to conveniently book your rental online for 1-, 2-, 4-, 6-, or 8-hour for $25, $40, $60, $80, and $100, respectively. These rentals include everything you need to get on the lake immediately including a life jacket. Paddles and Pedals is located just a short way from Big Bear Lake. The shop is easily within walking distance of the lake where you can launch anywhere on the shoreline for free. The closest area to launch is just down shore from the Big Bear Solar Observatory which makes for a great landmark to visit at the start of your paddleboard adventure.
Vacations are the Best Times to Try Something New
If you have been thinking about trying stand up paddle boarding in Big Bear for yourself, now is the time! And when you’re done, you can soak your tired muscles in a hot tub in your Big Bear Cabins vacation rental; reserve yours today and discover all the exciting adventures that can be had on your Big Bear vacation!
