Orange County, also known as The OC, is a quintessential stretch of coastline in Southern California that runs from Seal Beach to San Clemente. Sure, there are inland communities counted within its fold, but when anyone thinks of The OC, it’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) that dances around delightfully in their heads. However, despite boasting 42-miles of gorgeous coastline, very few beaches are accommodating to inflatable stand-up paddle boarding. The shore-break and current can be very unforgiving through all four seasons.
That being said, there are a number of SUPing spots along or near PCH that you can bring your Sea Gods ISUP to without worrying about getting sucked out to sea or pounded onto the shore. Below is a breakdown of the best places to stand-up paddle board in Orange County.
Top 5 Paddle Boarding Destinations to Bring Your Sea Gods ISUP to When in Orange County California
Balboa Island
Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
Balboa Island is a major attraction in Orange County’s famous Newport Beach. The idyllic hub of waterway activity is sandwiched between Balboa Peninsula (which juts out into the Pacific Ocean) and Pacific Coast Highway, meaning paddle boarders will enjoy calm water all year. Advanced paddlers may desire to venture around the Corona Del Mar Bend towards China Cove Beach, but the warning is that the boat traffic and incoming swell of the entrance channel can get you into hot water pretty fast.
Most paddlers are better served by sticking to the cozy embrace of Balboa Island, which is encircled by waterfront homes and yacht clubs that dazzle the senses when paddling around its 0.2 square miles. The apres-paddling scene is also quite amazing, as the walkable island is home to a bevy of boutique shops, cafes, eateries, and watering holes. In fact, with a population of about 3000 residents, this island has a higher population density than that of San Francisco, meaning there are many locals to share the SUPing experience with. They are a very friendly bunch, so throw them a Sea Gods “shaka” when paddling by.
Lido Isle
Skill Level: Beginner and up
Lido Isle in Newport Beach is adjacent to Balboa Island. You can paddle around both in the same afternoon if you really want to, but we recommend splitting it up into two different experiences. The manmade island is .39 square miles and is solely residential (aside from their yacht club), with approximately 1,800 residents living on the islet. The experience is relatively the same as that of Balboa, and the water is even calmer given that it’s tucked deeper in than Balboa, which is closer to the boating entrance channel. Feel free to mix it up by paddling under the Newport BLVD bridge to get a closer look at the homes that line the small and quaint waterway that OC dreams are made of.
Huntington Harbor
Skill Level: Beginner and up
Image: Visit Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach may be officially designated as Surf City USA, but beyond the HB Pier and the hardcore surfing circus that surrounds PCH and Main Street, there is a whole other persona to the beach city that exists to the north where Huntington meets its underling known as Sunset Beach. This is where SUPers will find the delightful seaside community of Huntington Harbor. This is one of the most picturesque settings to paddle around in, in Orange County. The harbor is lined with stunning homes and boats of all sizes. Paddle boarders can explore the series of canals very leisurely as boat traffic is as mellow as the vibe. When done (or during intermission) be sure to get refreshments and libations at Green Cheek Beer Company and/or Calico Fish House.
Baby Beach Dana Point Harbor
Skill Level: Beginner and up
Last but not least is one of our favorite beach communities in all of Orange County California. Dana Point is quieter and sleepier than all of The OC’s other seaside communities, making it so endearing. Like Huntington (above), Dana Point is known for great surfing (longboarding) at Doheny Beach, but when you tuck into the Dana Point Harbor you’ll find out what the SUPing fuss is all about. As you make your way north into the harbor into Dana Point Cove, you’ll come upon Baby Beach, a sandy beach boasting a striking cliffside backdrop. Baby Beach is a Mecca for SoCal sunbathers and paddle boarders alike. The waterway is protected by a large rock jetty that even the most fierce autumn/winter storms can barely ripple in. You’ll share the paddling space with a few small sailing craft and kayakers as all larger boats stick to the main harbor area. This is Orange County’s most stress-free paddle boarding zone.
While in the area, don’t miss out on checking out Drew Brophy’s Studio in San Clemente. The Artist behind the 2024 Skylla CX, this Surf Art Legend brings some fresh flavour to enjoy in the Sea Gods CX line up. Take a tour through his Gallery and spark the connection to get you out there- “Riding waves is like riding the very hear beat of our plane, solar system and beyond.” ~Drew Brophy
Make sure you pack your new Sea Gods inflatable stand-up paddle board and essential accessories before your next excursion to enjoy the best SUPing spots detailed above. If you have any questions about our products, shipping, and warranties feel free to contact Sea Gods USA anytime.