Victoria: Intro to Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Thetis Lake

If you’re looking for a gentle way to explore one of British Columbia’s most picturesque lakes, the Intro to Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) at Thetis Lake offers a fantastic option. For just $43 per person and about two hours of your time, you’ll learn the basics of SUP with certified instructors in a calm, natural setting. This experience prioritizes safety, fun, and fitness, making it a perfect choice whether you’re new to paddleboarding or someone wanting a relaxing day on the water.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is—the instructors are friendly and patient, making sure everyone feels confident, no matter your experience level. Plus, the stunning scenery of Thetis Lake, with its lush forested shores and tranquil waters, makes every paddle a visual treat. One highlight is the opportunity to combine light exercise with the peacefulness of nature—a rare combo that keeps you both active and relaxed.

A possible consideration is that this tour doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the lake. Also, since it’s a small group limited to eight participants, booking early ensures you won’t miss out. This tour suits travelers who enjoy being outdoors, want a gentle introduction to paddleboarding, and appreciate quiet, scenic spots away from busy tourist crowds.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Perfect for first-time paddleboarders, with step-by-step guidance.
• Serene natural setting: Paddle on Thetis Lake, renowned for its lush surroundings.
• Certified instructors: Knowledgeable guides who ensure safety and build confidence.
• Full-body workout: A low-impact activity that’s gentle on the joints but effective.
• Limited group size: Small groups enhance personalized instruction.
• Price and duration: At $43 for two hours, this offers good value for a memorable outdoor experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the SUP Experience

This paddleboarding tour is designed to be approachable for all ages and skill levels. Starting with a brief orientation, your instructor—who speaks English, French, Spanish, or Arabic—will introduce you to the equipment and safety protocols. They’ll cover how to balance on the board, paddle efficiently, and steer confidently. The focus here is on making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out onto the calm waters of Thetis Lake.

Once out on the water, you’ll notice how tranquil and scenic the environment is. The lake’s serene waters are ideal for beginners, offering little resistance and a peaceful backdrop of lush forests and shoreline vistas. Many travelers find that the activity is not only a full-body workout but also a chance to clear your mind amid nature’s quiet beauty.

Throughout the session, the instructor provides personalized tips and encouragement, helping you refine your technique. This personal attention is a big plus, especially if you’re new to paddleboarding. The guide’s friendly approach ensures that everyone, even those wobbling at first, gains the confidence to stand and paddle on their own.

The activity wraps up back at the starting point, where you can take a moment to soak in the scenery and reflect on your newfound skills. One reviewer described it as an experience that “exceeded our expectations,” highlighting how informative and helpful the guide was, along with the beautiful lake setting.

The Practicalities

This tour costs $43 per person, which includes SUP board rental, a paddle, and a lifejacket (PFD). It’s worth noting that meals, beverages, and transportation are not included, so plan accordingly. The session lasts two hours, with options available in both morning and afternoon slots, making it flexible to fit into your schedule.

The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means you’ll get plenty of individual attention. The guides are committed to safety and skill-building, and their multilingual abilities (English, French, Spanish, Arabic) help cater to diverse travelers.

Since minors under 18 require parental consent, families with younger children should plan ahead. Also, booking in advance and choosing the “reserve now, pay later” option adds flexibility, especially if your plans are not yet firm.

Why This Tour Holds Value

We think this introductory paddleboarding experience offers excellent value for those wanting a taste of outdoor adventure in a peaceful environment. The stunning scenery alone makes it worthwhile—being on the water with views of green forests and calm shores is a calming, visually rewarding experience. Plus, learning from certified instructors ensures you’ll pick up good technique that you can use in future outings.

The full-body workout aspect is a bonus, especially since it’s low-impact, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The intimate group size guarantees personalized guidance, which is invaluable for beginners who might feel shy or wobbly at first.

This tour isn’t about conquering challenging waters or racing across the lake; it’s about enjoying the process, gaining confidence, and soaking in nature’s tranquility. If you’re someone who appreciates gentle outdoor activities that combine physical activity with scenic beauty, this would be a perfect fit.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This paddleboarding tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a laid-back outdoor activity. It’s especially suited for beginners or those unfamiliar with SUP, thanks to the guided instruction and calm conditions. Nature lovers will appreciate the serene setting of Thetis Lake, which provides a peaceful escape from city life.

If you enjoy outdoor exercise, scenic views, and learning new skills in a supportive environment, you’ll find this tour both fun and rewarding. It’s a great way to spend a morning or afternoon, combining gentle adventure with natural beauty.

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FAQ

Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?
No, this is designed as an introduction for beginners. The instructor will teach you the basics before heading out on the water.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. You might want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.

Is there a minimum age for participants?
Minors under 18 require parental or guardian consent, so check with the provider if you’re bringing children.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all necessary equipment—SUP board, paddle, and lifejacket—is included in the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

How physically demanding is the activity?
It’s a full-body workout that is gentle on the joints, suitable for most fitness levels.

Is transportation to Thetis Lake provided?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the lake.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled, you may reschedule or receive a full refund.

How long does the entire experience last?
The scheduled session lasts about two hours, including instruction and paddling time.

The Victoria: Intro to Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Thetis Lake offers a wonderful way to combine light exercise with the serenity of nature. The calm waters and lush scenery provide a perfect backdrop for beginners to gain confidence and enjoy a new skill. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized, safe experience that’s both fun and educational.

This tour is especially good for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities that are easy on the body but rich in scenery. It’s a relaxing, scenic outing that leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and a new appreciation for the outdoors. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, this paddleboarding introduction can add a memorable, peaceful chapter to your Victoria trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: