Stand Up Paddle school – learn to SUP and make your first SUP tour

Imagine standing on a board, paddling quietly along Croatia’s stunning coast, discovering hidden coves and scenic views you’d miss from the land. That’s what this Stand Up Paddle (SUP) school in Hvar offers—an accessible, fun way to get on the water and learn a new skill. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to refine your balance and paddling technique, this tour is designed to make the experience relaxed and rewarding.

What we love about this experience are two key things: First, how friendly and knowledgeable the instructors are, making the learning process smooth even for first-timers. Second, the opportunity to explore Hvar’s coastline from a new perspective—paddling past secluded bays and along the beautiful shoreline. The one consideration? It’s a short session, so if you’re craving an all-day adventure, this might be just a taste rather than a full-day outing.

This tour suits anyone curious about trying paddleboarding in a safe, calm environment, and those interested in lightweight, low-impact water fun. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups of friends wanting to add a splash of adventure to their Hvar stay.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Perfect for beginners, with friendly instruction and stable, buoyant boards.
• Includes all equipment: Paddleboards, paddles, dry bags, and life jackets provided at no extra cost.
• Learn from experienced guides: Friendly, patient instructors like Marco and Josko have earned praise.
• Exploration opportunity: Glide along Hvar’s coast and discover secret bays.
• Cost-effective: At around $30, the experience offers good value for a guided water activity in a stunning setting.
• Flexible duration: Options range from 1 to 3 hours, fitting different schedules.

What to Expect from the SUP School Experience

Location and Setup

The tour starts at Kayak & SUP Hvar, based at Bonj beach, a calm, protected bay ideal for beginners. This spot is a smart choice—shielded from wind and waves—allowing newbies to focus on learning without fighting the elements. The setting already sets a relaxed tone, promising an enjoyable introduction to paddling.

The Beginner’s Lesson

The experience begins with a 15-20 minute land tutorial. Your instructor will break down the essentials: how to stand confidently on the board, keep your balance, and paddle effectively. The focus on safety and comfort makes this initial step smooth. As one reviewer shared, Marco, the instructor, was “patient, friendly, and knowledgeable,” which helps newcomers feel at ease right from the start.

Equipment and Comfort

All gear is provided, including large, stable SUP boards with high buoyancy, making it easy for beginners to feel secure. You’ll also get an adjustable paddle—you don’t need to worry about size—and a dry bag to keep valuables safe. Life jackets are optional for good swimmers, and there’s free storage for your belongings ashore, so you won’t have to carry your backpack while paddling.

The Tour and Exploration

Once comfortable on the water, your instructor will lead you along the coast. Expect to visit hidden bays and scenic spots that are often inaccessible by land. The experience emphasizes exploration, making it more than just balancing on a board—it’s about enjoying the unique perspective from the water.

Duration and Flexibility

You can choose between durations of 1 to 3 hours. Shorter sessions are ideal if you want a quick taste of SUP, while longer tours allow for more relaxed exploration. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Participants rave about their guides. One reviewer noted, “Josko was a phenomenal instructor and great company,” highlighting how much the guides’ personalities enhance the experience. The overall rating is a perfect 5.0 from two reviews, both emphasizing the friendliness and skill of the instructors and the fun they had learning a new skill.

Why This SUP Tour Offers Great Value

At just $29.83 per person, this experience is a pretty good deal, especially considering everything included—gear, instruction, insurance, and the chance to explore the coast. The small group size (up to 15 participants) ensures personalized attention, which is vital for beginners. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to plan without worry.

The Experience Benefits

• Learn at your own pace: The initial land instruction and friendly guides reduce the intimidation factor.
• Safety is prioritized: Life jackets, dry bags, and insurance make the activity low-risk.
• Natural beauty: The chance to paddle past secluded bays and enjoy peaceful waters is a highlight.
• Flexible scheduling: The short duration fits easily into most travel plans without dominating your day.

The Ideal Participant

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to try something active yet relaxed during their time in Hvar. It’s suited for beginners, families with kids, or anyone curious about paddleboarding but hesitant to jump into more complex water sports. If exploring from the water sounds appealing but you’re not ready for a full-day excursion, this experience hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

The Stand Up Paddle School in Hvar offers a fantastic entry point into paddleboarding, combining friendly instruction, excellent equipment, and a chance to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline. The value for the price is notable, especially considering the personalized attention from guides praised for their patience and knowledge. Whether you’re looking for a low-key activity to break up your sightseeing or want to develop a new skill in a safe environment, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially well-suited for those new to paddleboarding or those who simply want a tranquil, scenic water adventure. The ability to glide past hidden bays and enjoy the natural beauty of Hvar makes this experience a memorable addition to your trip. Even if you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast, you might find this a charming, beginner-friendly way to spend part of your day—plus, it’s hard to argue with the value at under $30.

For anyone who enjoys a relaxed, authentic, and fun introduction to Croatia’s coast, this SUP lesson is an excellent choice. Just bring your sense of adventure, and the instructors will do the rest.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The tour starts with a short land tutorial, and the boards are designed to be very stable, making it perfect for first-timers.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get an experienced instructor, a stand-up paddleboard with an adjustable paddle, a life jacket (if you prefer), a dry bag for your belongings, and accident insurance.

How long does the activity last?
You can choose between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your preference and schedule.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and ends at Kayak & SUP Hvar, located at Bonj beach, a calm, protected bay ideal for beginners.

Is there any equipment I need to bring?
No, everything is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and sunscreen if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity.

Is this activity good for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a fun family activity.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all equipment and instruction are included; gratuities are not required but appreciated.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Since it’s held in a protected bay, it’s less affected by weather, but safety is always the priority, and activities could be rescheduled in case of bad weather.

In short, this SUP experience in Hvar offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to enjoy Croatia’s coastline. It’s simple, fun, and perfect for those looking to add a dash of water-based adventure to their trip.