Stand up paddle boarding: the sport of the summer in Roses

Stand up paddle boarding, also known as SUP, has been gaining in popularity, becoming the sport of the summer in Roses. This is not surprising, as even beginners can quickly get to grips with a paddle board.

Paddling on the water in an unfamiliar environment is a real adventure, which is why SUP is so popular. It allows you to rediscover nature from the water, as you can easily get away from it all without straying too far from the coast. The feeling of freedom and adventure is exhilarating and the perfect way to clear your mind.

Would you like to book a flexible holiday in Roses and try stand up paddle boarding at some incredible beaches and natural spots?

Stand up paddle (or SUP) is a relatively new water sport that has only come to us in the last few years. It basically consists of standing on a board with a paddle and using the momentum to glide through the waves. Its origins are in Polynesia, but it became popular in Hawaii as a variation of surfing, and in Spain it has really taken off.

This sport has attracted a lot of attention because it can be practised not only in the sea, but also in rivers, lakes and even swimming pools! Many people wonder if they will be able to stand up on the board or even catch a few waves, as the paddle board provides an extra level of safety and “stability” that is not found with surfing. As with anything, practice makes perfect, but that doesn’t mean that with a good instructor and the right equipment and instructions, beginners can’t have a great time trying stand up paddle boarding.

Benefits of stand up paddle boarding

Stand up paddle boarding uses all the muscle groups of the body, making it very beneficial to your health. It is a sport that forces you to work on your breathing and strength because of the balance you have to maintain on the board, which increases your cardiovascular capacity.

Even though it is classed as moderate exercise – the same as a leisurely walk – it burns a lot of calories because it involves the whole body. A low-intensity session can burn between 400 and 500 calories. If you paddle board in the waves, this increases to 600 calories in just one hour. And if you want to dedicate yourself to it or train at a professional level, the expenditure can increase to up to 1000 calories.

But stand up paddle boarding is not only good for your physical health, it is also good for your mental health. SUP helps improve your self-esteem, puts you in touch with nature and allows you to meditate while paddling, so you could say that it has it all!

If you want to do some stand up paddle boarding during your holiday in Roses, we have a few recommendations for you:

• If you have never tried this sport before or if you’re a beginner, it is advisable to go to a school. They will help you take your first steps on the board and check that everything is correct so that you not only have a good time but are safe.
• Experience packs are available in Roses where you can learn to stand up paddle board in a group on pre-set routes. This is a great option if you don’t know the area.
• If you’re going on your own, we recommend that you plan your trips early or late in the day as the sea and wind are usually calmer.

The Bay of Roses is perfect for stand up paddle boarding, but there are many other quiet beaches in the area where you can enjoy the sport. We recommend that you check out the best coves in Roses to find the most suited to you and the sport.

The popularity of SUP is largely due to the fact that it is a very accessible activity, even if you have never tried water sports before. A minimum level of fitness helps (e.g. good swimming, stamina and balance) but is not essential for stand up paddle boarding.

Beginners are usually on the board within a few minutes. It is also suitable for older people or recreational athletes with joint problems, and advanced surfers can challenge themselves by stand up paddle boarding quickly and through rough water on narrower and more agile boards.

And the kids are not left out! The whole family can be entertained on a single paddle board. Just put the kids on the front of the board and take them for a spin. You’ll find that they’ll soon be trying to imitate you by standing up and paddling. They can even use your board as a springboard to jump into the water again and again!

There are plenty of places to go in Roses after enjoying your favourite water sport. The best option is to relax by the sea and extend your time near the sand and waves, so here are a few places you can visit without straying too far from the beach:

• Xiri d’Akells is a beach bar with wonderful views, perfect for a burger and a cold beer. It is the ideal place to relax and unwind!
• Xiringuito Tropic Beach is another fantastic beach bar in a great location. If you are lucky, you may even catch some live music so you can dance the night away with a cocktail.
• Ona Beach Bar is an original designer beach lounge with a terrace, where you can enjoy international cuisine while enjoying concerts and nightly sessions.

If you prefer to relax as close to your room as possible, you can always head to Coconut’s Lounge Bar & Restaurant, in the grounds of our hotel Monterrey Roses.