Riding the Heatwave: Brighton Paddleboarding Guide

With the recent heatwave hitting Brighton, finding ways to cool off in the English Channel is probably at the top of your to-do list. If you are looking to get out on the water, there are several straightforward ways to rent gear and get started, whether you want a relaxed paddleboard session or something a bit more active. From self-serve setups and mobile deliveries to established clubs, the seafront and surrounding areas have plenty of options depending on your experience level.

For those who want to stay directly on the beach, Brighton Watersports operates right from the arches at 185 Kings Road Arches. Being the only water sports facility directly on Brighton Beach, they make it easy to hire stand-up paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, or even book ringo rides and wakeboarding. They provide wetsuits and buoyancy aids with their hire, and they have changing rooms on-site. If you prefer calmer, sheltered waters to practice your balance before facing the sea waves, they also run activities at Piddinghoe Lake, located between Newhaven and Lewes, which features full facilities like showers and parking.

If you are looking for a flexible setup near Hove, Surf SUP Brighton is a mobile service that delivers paddleboards directly to the seafront near Rockwater. You can book half-day hires for up to four hours or full-day hires for up to nine hours, which includes the board, paddle, leash, and a buoyancy aid. Keep in mind that they do not provide wetsuits, and the minimum age to hire is 15. Because they operate directly on the open sea, they may cancel bookings if the wind or tides are not safe, so it is always best to check the weather and contact them in advance for same-day bookings.

For beginners who want a highly controlled environment, Lagoon Watersports at Hove Lagoon is an ideal starting point. The lagoon features shallow, waist-deep water, making it very easy to learn windsurfing, wakeboarding, or paddleboarding without worrying about sea currents. They also operate out of Brighton Marina for open-water activities like sailing and powerboating. If you plan on getting out on the water regularly, the Brighton Marina Watersports Club offers a membership model with unlimited use of paddleboards and kayaks, operating seven days a week from 09:00 to 18:00 for members aged 18 and over.