Perfect Paddles SUP and Kayak Guide to: Florida’s Emerald Coast in 2023!
Do you want to SUP on the Emerald Coast but not sure where to go? Check out this comprehensive guide to paddling in and around this beautiful section of Florida!
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The Emerald Coast is often overlooked when it comes to enjoying Florida’s sunshine.
Everyone knows the famous places in Florida. Miami Beach, Tampa Bay, Key West. These are all fantastic locations to spend time on a SUP underneath the sun.
But lying just to the west, sitting along the Gulf of Mexico, lies a different part of Florida. One full of white sandy beaches, shining turquoise waters, and plenty of beautiful wildlife to interact with.
This is a place where everyone who loves the outdoors needs to visit. And this is a place where paddlers can find a slice of paradise outside of the popular tourist traps of the state.
However, due to the fact that it isn’t as well known, it can be difficult to know exactly where to go. Especially if you want to spend most of your time on a SUP.
If this is the case, then you’re in the right spot. This is a Perfect Paddles SUP and Kayak Guide to the Emerald Coast — where you will find all the information you need to have a fantastic time in this section of Florida.
How This Guide Works
This guide is built with you in mind. Whether you are a seasoned paddler with years of experience, or a complete beginner who needs to rent a board for paddling, we have you covered.
For those with their own boards, think of the local Paddle Pros listed below as resources for the best SUP info - where to paddle, what to look for, and when the best times to go. They know their area best and have launch location options, and “must-see/must-SUP” suggestions already planned for visitors. With that said, always reach out to the Paddling Pros listed in this guide to get started on your planning.
For short term visitors who need to rent a board while you’re in town, we’ll go over where you can pick up a board, what types of boards are available, and where you can launch your board on calmer waters.
Use this comprehensive guide as your key to the information you need to have the best possible time on the Emerald Coast — both on and off the water.
Of course, if you have any questions about the area, you can always drop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time to visit the Emerald Coast is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). If you visit any earlier, you risk cooler weather and chilly water. A summer trip will put you among the crowds and the peak prices. Although you might consider late summer and early fall, the temperatures can be sweltering and accompanied by rain. Average highs reach the high 80s in summer, while winter temps fluctuate between the low 40s and 60s. Some travelers do visit in the winter offseason when rates drop, but they miss out on the area's top activities. (travel.usnews.com)
Wind and Weather and Where/When to Paddle
Since the Emerald Coast is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, with some launch locations inland, predictions on the wind can vary. Often they depend on storms that might be coming from the west or up the gulf. However, to paddle during the calmest times it is recommended that you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Special Note: Hurricane season is officially June 1st - November 30th in Florida and the general region. Even though hurricanes may dissipate before they reach land they can still impact your paddling experience. Always refer to a wind and weather app before heading onto the water - or talk with a local Paddling Professional or outfitter to gain insider knowledge on the area.
Average Temperature/Seasons:
The Emerald Coast is one of those few places in Florida that does receive cold weather in the winter. You can expect highs hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit in January and February (the area’s coldest months) with lows in the 40s. In the summer, temperatures are seasonably warm topping out at around 90 degrees Fahrenheit with lows in the 60s.
Average Water Temperature (source)
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Min °C 14.6 13.8 15.5 18.7 21.3 25.9 27.7 28.9 26.9 23.5 19.2 17.3
Max °C 19.5 19 20.6 23.8 27.8 30.2 31.2 31.1 29.9 28.6 25 20.9
Min °F 60.2 58.9 61.9 67.7 72.9 80.3 83.2 84.9 81.6 76.3 68.9 64.6
Max °F 65.1 64.1 67 72.8 79.4 84.6 86.7 87.1 84.6 81.4 74.7 68.2
SUP Environments to Paddle In
River
Bay
Ocean
SUP Activity Highlights:
SUP Yoga
- Yoga Elements: Whether you are brand new to yoga or a seasoned yogi doing your practice on the water will be an experience you will never forget. Many students say their practice is taken to a new level of awareness when done on the water.
Sunset/Sunrise Paddles
- Green Fin Paddle Co.: Green Fin Paddle Company offers a ton of options with regards to their sunrise and sunset tours. You can choose from many different locations around the Emerald Coast!
Full Moon Paddle Tours
- Wet Paddleboards: Join us to view moonlight shimmering on the water and to enjoy the beautiful sunsets from a paddle board. No worries if you never paddled before, we'll have a short introduction of paddle boarding and answer any questions you will have. Reservations are highly encouraged to guarantee a spot as we only have this tour once a month. Glow in the dark necklaces/navigation lights are provided.
Fireworks Tour
- Green Fin Paddle Co.: Check out Baytowne Wharf's weekly fireworks show from the best seat in the house! This night tour launches from Legion Park in Miramar Beach just after the sun sets, and heads straight east along the edge of the Choctawhatchee Bay. We'll settle into a spot on the edge of Horseshoe Bayou and enjoy a closeup view of the fantastic fireworks display. Once complete, we'll make our way back to our well-lit launch point where the tour will conclude.
Potential Water Hazards
The waters along the Emerald Coast are varied. This can mean the paddling environments can change based on your location and the time of the you’re paddling.
Before you decide to drop into the water, follow this simple checklist to make sure you and your paddling buddies are safe throughout your experience (source):
1. WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)!
Florida law requires a readily accessible Coast Guard approved PFD for each occupant. Children younger than six years-old are required to wear a PFD.
2. Know the waterway conditions and be aware of water levels and currents.
Winds can significantly affect the difficulty of a trip. Under normal conditions, allow a minimum of two miles per hour paddling time.
3. File a float plan and leave it with a reliable person — especially for extended paddles.
A float plan contains information about your trip in the event that you do not return as scheduled. This includes a description of the vessel(s), names of all paddlers, planned course and stops, and an estimated time of return. Ask the person to notify the Coast Guard or local authorities if you do not return as scheduled. Don't forget to get in touch with your contact person and let them know when you return
4. Bring plenty of food and water.
Drinks should be in non-breakable containers . Food and gear should be stored in watertight containers. For day trips, 1/2 gallon of water per person is recommended. For overnight trips, one gallon of water per person each day is recommended.
5. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
Wear sunglasses, a hat, and long sleeves and pants even on cloudy days. Long sleeves and pants also help prevent insect bites.
6. Watch for motorboats.
Stay on the right and turn into the boat's wake. Respect anglers by giving them plenty of room.
7. Bring a cell phone or VHF radio.
Cell phones are great for staying in communication, but coverage may be sporadic depending on your specific location.
8. Respect wildlife.
Do not approach or harass wildlife, as they can be dangerous. It is also illegal to feed them.
Occasionally you might see American gators in the waterways. To avoid any dangerous run-ins, it’s always best to stick to areas with higher boat traffic. Gators (and other dangerous wildlife) are much more likely to be in areas where the water is calm and undisturbed.
Most gators will stay away from anything that is bigger than them. If you are paddling a 10 '6' board’ up to a 14’ board you will likely scare off any smaller ones. If you happen to see a large gator in the area, calmly paddle away from it without making any loud noises or extra splashing motions.
Always be on the lookout when paddling in Florida!
SUP Outfitters in the Area:
1. SUP Express
Location: Destin, Florida
Best Offering: Free rental delivery to your location. Take advantage of this amazing service by renting board for a full day or multiple days during your stay in Destin!
2. Green Fin Paddle Co.(Member Discount)
Location: Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Best Offering: Tours, tours, and more tours! Green Fin offers the best tours on the Emerald Coast. You have a choice of sunrise, sunset tours in multiple locations along with their specialty: a fireworks show from the best seat in the house — on your SUP!
3. Run/SUP
Location: Seaside, Florida
Best Offering: Fitness. Everything Run/SUP offers centers around your personal fitness. From classes, SUP rentals, running tours, and more! Check them out if you want to get into the best shape of your life.
4. Wet Paddleboards
Location: Destin, Florida
Best Offering: If you want to experience a full moon paddle in Destin, then head here. Their tour will have you on the beautiful waters of Destin under a full moon light. Don’t miss it!
5. Yoga Elements (Member Discount)
Location: Panama City Beach, Florida
Best Offering: SUP yoga! Visit Yoga Elements if you are looking for a fun way to expand your practice by taking it to the water.
Emerald Coast SUP Launch Locations
In case you didn’t know, the Emerald Coast is the unofficial name for the coastal area in Florida on the Gulf of Mexico that stretches about 100 mi (160 km) through five counties — Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Panama City.
The best places for SUP in this area are often found in Destin, Pencasolca, and Panama Beach. We cover all of these spots and more below!
Gulf of Mexico
How can you visit the Emerald Coast without paddling in the Gulf of Mexico? Its calm water and crystal clear views right to the bottom make it the perfect place to paddle on the water and spot some wildlife. You’re likely to see manta rays, sting rays, dolphins, fish, and of course the famous Florida manatee.
As you paddle along you’ll notice the bright white sand as it sits next to the aquamarine waters. It’s a Caribbean feel in Florida you will not forget. It’s not unusual to spend a whole day paddling in the Gulf with stops along the coast to beachfront restaurants, bars, and even some state parks.
The best cities to get a view of the Gulf have to be Pensacola on the western end of the Florida panhandle and Destin a little farther east. These two coastal cities are welcome to all visitors and provide the easier launch spots for you to enjoy the water. You will find information on launch locations in both places below!
Crab Island, Destin
Our first stop takes us to the beautiful city of Destin. Crab Island used to be an island and now it’s just a very large sandbar. Due to this unique setting, the water can be anywhere from your knees to your hips in depth. This makes it an ideal spot for beginners to take their boards for some practice under the sun. In addition, family and friends can anchor up on the sand bar with some drinks and hang out for the afternoon.
Crab Island has become relatively well known by locals in Destin so you are likely to find a crowd. However, it isn’t accessible by land which makes it the perfect spot for a paddle board expedition. The best launch locations to get to Crab Island include Redneck Beach on the West end of the Destin bridge and Dewey Destin’s on the bay. From either launch location you will be able to see Crab Island or at least people hanging out there!
Norriego Point, Destin
Norriego Point is a small peninsula of land located right across from the Destin Harbor. This small spot is a Destin hotspot during the summer. Locals and visitors will often beach their boats, throw up some umbrellas, and pop open their coolers to grab a few drinks under the sun. This is a great spot for paddlers to head to from the Destin Harbor to hang out for an afternoon and have some fun.
Bonus — if you get hungry while on Norriego Point, you can paddle back to Destin Harbor. This area is full of restaurants and bars. It might look like it’s crowded with boats but this is a purely idle zone, making it safe for all types of watercraft.
Choctaw Bay, Destin
Are you a distance paddler? Do you enjoy the challenge of pushing your body to its limits on the water? Then we have the perfect route for you.
You can paddle from the Midbay Bridge to the Destin Bridge for a long challenging paddle. The bay itself is a calm water paddling location as well as waterfront restaurants to stop in during your paddle. And if you’re into an adventure, and an extended paddle, you can venture into Joe’s or Indian Bayou to view the beautiful waterfront houses and see the residential side of Destin.
Added bonus: If you are into SUP fishing, you can find some great fishing spots in the Indian Bayou!
Destin Harbor
We may have already teased this launch location in a previous spot, but it’s worth repeating here. Why? Because Destin Harbor is a great place to paddle! There is plenty of action in this spot with waterfront restaurants, boats both large and small, and plenty of people to meet and greet.
Of course, as we stated earlier, there is boat traffic here. However, they are required to move at idling speed so you should be fine on the water. If you are looking for a place with plenty of action on and off the water, Destin Harbor should be your go-to spot.
Miramar Beach, South Walton County
While Miramar Beach is located just a few miles east of Destin, it keeps all of the charm, and the beautiful views, of the famous Emerald Coast City.
And just like Destin, Miramar has the famous sugar-white sand that meets the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Gulf. You paddle here to meet the wildlife. It’s not unusual to see a dolphin or two or three, a few sea turtles, and the occasional manta ray as they come over to inspect your board.
But what makes it onto our list is the fact that it’s a great place to learn how to SUP in the ocean, especially if it’s your first time.
The calm, flat waters of the Gulf still retain the energy of the ocean while providing a safe place with smaller waves to see what it feels like to stand on a moving body of water. It’s the perfect balance between the two.
If you are interested in ocean paddling but haven’t gone before, this is the ideal launch location for you.
Coastal Dunes Lake
The Coastal Dunes Lakes are located near Pensacola. They are a rare geological phenomenon in that they have a mix of fresh and saltwater that merge into the lakes’ calm water.
According to rootsrated.com, “The lakes are located just beyond the towering sand dunes that line the Gulf of Mexico, and during heavy storms, water from the Gulf creates connections, known as outfalls, that swap salt water and organisms with the lakes’ fresh water. These rare lakes are found only in select locations, besides northwest Florida, including the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, Madagascar, Oregon and South Carolina. The waters are dark brown in color, but are safe to swim in - the color comes from the tannin produced by nearby trees.”
You have a choice of 15 lakes when you arrive at the park. Each with its own unique setting and wildlife to explore. The paddling here is flatwater and easy. Great for beginners and experts alike.
And each lake is small enough in size to explore the whole thing individually!
One word of caution: because of the flow from the Gulf to the lakes, the water levels can change quickly. Always check them before you paddle. Parking can also be tricky here. We suggest you park along Highway 30A where it is permitted. But keep an eye out for any “No Parking” signs in the area!
Grayton Beach State Park/Western Lake
If you are looking for a State Park to explore during your visit to the Emerald Coast, then definitely consider Grayton State Park.
Inside you will find wide open beaches to explore at Grayton Beach State Park. If you stayed here for the entirety of your visit, we wouldn’t blame you. However, if you want to paddle a flat water location that’s easy for beginners, your destination should be Western Lake.
Western Lake is a 100-acre coastal dune lake that is calm and easy for beginning paddlers to explore.
Did you know, coastal dune lakes occur in only a few places around the world? It’s true! Because of their rarity, exploring these geological phenomena is a treat. In addition, it is full of untouched wildlife waiting to be discovered from atop your SUP.
Grayton Beach State Park is the place to go for a fun afternoon in a quiet location with even calmer waters.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola is a coastal city that sits west of Destin. And it is our number one spot for the ultimate Caribbean feel during your stay on the Emerald Coast has to be Pensacola Beach.
It is widely known for its bright white sand beaches and aquamarine ocean waters. If you visited just for the view, we wouldn’t blame you. This is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon at the beach. Bring your umbrella, a cooler, and a good book to read in between paddling sessions to complete the perfect beach day.
Afterwards you can head to the strip to search for the perfect restaurant for a perfect dinner time meal. There are plenty of options! (Check out some of our favorites below). If you want to stay as close to the beach as possible during your stay, check out the Margaritaville Beach Hotel. You’ll be just a few steps from the water!
SUP Equipment Available to Rent
You can rent inflatable paddle boards and hardboards from the list of available Perfect Paddles shops above.
If you want to experience a multiple-day rental, then contact SUP Express for all of your renting needs. They even offer free delivery to your location!
Fun Emerald Coast Area Info (source):
The Panhandle Is The Deep South, And It Could Be The 51st State If It Really Wanted
It’s a paradox, but in Florida, the farther north you travel the more Southern it becomes. And when you get to the Panhandle, you’ve reached the Deep South. It’s not the place you see on the news that makes you scared of neighborhood watchmen, texting in the movie theater and the earth suddenly opening up and swallowing you whole. It’s more like Alabama and Georgia, but there’s still something inexplicably Florida about it.
The Best Songwriters In The World Come To Town Each January
Every MLK weekend, famous and up-and-coming singer/songwriters converge on the Panhandle for the 30A Songwriters Festival. The fest takes place at multiple intimate and larger venues along Scenic Highway 30A, allowing fans an up close encounter with their favorite artists. Past performers have included Suzanna Hoffs of the Bangles, Indigo Girls, Matthew Sweet and John Oates of Hall and Oates fame.
People Come From All Over For The Florida Seafood Festival
In October, Panhandle hosts the Florida Seafood Festival. It’s Florida’s oldest maritime event and draws upwards hundreds of thousands of people from around the nation and the globe each year. The area is famous for its oysters, a focal point of this lively fest right on the water near downtown.
Let’s Not Forget The Gators
Gator sightings are rare, but there are still plenty of them in the lakes, swamps and waterways of the Panhandle. South Florida has millions of alligators, but the Panhandle only has thousands. They aren’t considered a nuisance animal here like further south, so no worries about an alligator welcome wagon on your back patio.
There’s More Forestland And Farmland Than Beach
The Panhandle is a mostly rural area where you’ll encounter plenty of good ol’ boys and girls. At the marina docks, they’re ready to take you out in the Gulf on a charter cruise. Further inland, they harvest timber and cotton and Tupelo honey, among other things.
People From The Panhandle Are Serious About Protecting Sea Turtles
Local, state and federal authorities are adamant about protecting sea turtles and their nests on the beaches. Learn turtle etiquette when you’re at the beach, or you might wind up paying a hefty fine. Between May and October—the nesting season—local non-profit sea turtle organizations such as the South Walton Turtle Watch and the Gulf County Turtle Patrol need volunteers to help monitor the beaches and protect the nests. It’s exciting as you patrol the beach early in the morning, marking off nests and reporting any activity such as the awesome sight of fresh hatchling tracks heading into the surf.
The World’s Greatest Precision Flight Squadron Is Stationed Here
That would be the Blue Angels, who are based out of the naval air station (NAS) in Pensacola. It’s free to watch their practice shows, which only occur a few times a year because the squad keeps a busy touring schedule. Locals know the best place to see the practice shows is from a boat on the bay near the NAS.
The Coastal Dune Lakes In The Panhandle Are A Gorgeous Phenomenon
Along 30A there are a series of small lakes called coastal dune lakes. These types of lakes occasionally cut channels through the beach to connect with the sea, only to close themselves off again. This phenomenon only happens in a few places on earth.
The Panhandle Has The Most Beautiful Part Of The National Seashore
Pensacola is home to the easternmost sections of the Gulf Islands National Seashore that stretches from Mississippi to the Panhandle in a string of barrier islands. If you want to be all alone on a pristine stretch of sand head to the Perdido Key and Santa Rosa Island units of the national seashore.
Additional Activities When You Are Not on the Water
Top Restaurants in the Emerald Coast:
Crackings (Destin)
The perfect breakfast, brunch, and lunch place in Destin! Come here to enjoy fresh eggs, perfect toast, and a great cup of coffee.
Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer (Destin)
Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer is a locally-owned & operated, casual, family friendly seafood restaurant on the Destin Harbor. The name Brotula's is derived from the Bearded Brotula or Cusk Eel that is caught right here in the local waters at depths of 350 feet. It is one of the best kept secrets among the local fishing community and some amazing tasting fish. Brotula's specializes in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, produce, and a wide array of steamed and boiled shellfish platters that are integrated into a fun and rustic, yet sophisticated southern fish house.
Mama Clemenza’s (Miramar Beach)
Mama Clemenza's brings fresh, traditional European breakfast to the Emerald Coast. From their Italian Breakfast Panini, with prosciutto, eggs, and Gruyere, to Lemon Curd Ricotta Pancakes or Flourless Espresso Biscuits made from Mama Clemenza’s Grandmother’s Sicilian recipe, everything they serve is cooked with homemade attention.
The Magnolia (Pensacola)
This little neighborhood restaurant/bar will hopefully win you over right away with its cozy charm, tasty food & friendly faces! They have a fantastic wine and beer selection and is a great place to relax after a full day under the sun.
Union Public House (Pensacola)
The Union Public House is a crafty southern pub where it all comes together. Excellent food and drinks combined with unparalleled customer service is our mission. Fresh and creative ingredients will be paired with fresh and creative ideas. Exceptional food, superb drinks, and stellar service is the norm.
Additional Attractions if the Wind and Weather Don’t Cooperate (Click on the links for additional information on each location):
Destin Commons
Only a 20 minute drive from 30-A Inn & Suites, it features a wide range of shopping, restaurants, and family friendly actives. Including an AMC movie theater, a bowling alley with dining, a play ground, Bass Pro Shop, and a Build-A-Bear Workshop! To see everything they have to offer check out Destin Commons website.
30A Song Writer’s Festival
With more than 175 artists, 225 performances, and 30 venues, the 30A Songwriters Festival has something for everyone. Past performers include Jackson Browne, Emmylou Harris, John Prine, Indigo Girls, Graham Nash, Grace Potter, Jason Isbell, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Shawn Mullins and Patty Griffin, among many more. Click on the link to see when the festival is being held!
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Come see the marine wildlife in person! Catch a show, walk through the aquarium, and even swim with the dolphins.
Hop on Hop Off Tour in Pensacola
For the best introduction to Pensacola, try the Hop-on, Hop-off Tour. Fully narrated, this tour includes 14 stops for customers to explore areas of interest. Enjoy as much time at each stop. Then continue to explore. This tour includes entrance to Historic Pensacola Village, its 4 museums, a guided tour of the oldest house still on its original foundations, and a self-guided old, cemetery tour. What's even more exciting is that nearby businesses and restaurants offer over $100 in discounts or giveaways
Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum
No trip to Pensacola is incomplete without a visit to the fourth tallest brick lighthouse in the country. Built in 1859, this 160-foot landmark has stood the test of time and is now of major historical importance. Climb the nearly 200 stairs to the top and take in panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Then visit the lighthouse museum, which houses replica models of the first lighthouse, as well as other city landmarks.
Fort Barrancas
High on a bluff overlooking the entrance to Pensacola Bay, Fort Barrancas stands as a monument to the legacy of America’s early homeland defense. Built with 6 million bricks, walls 4 feet thick and 20 feet high, Fort Barrancas was completed in 1844 and remains an example of military engineering and a marvel of human ingenuity.
Hotels/Price Ranges
The area of the Emerald Coast covers a large area. No matter where you’re staying, whether it’s in Destin or Pensacola, Miramar Beach, or someplace else, we always recommend doing your own research before booking. However, to give you an idea on the prices you should expect we’ve listed a few options below.
Destin
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin: $155.99/night
Embassy Suites Destin Miramar Beach: $89.30/night
Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Blvd, hotel in Destin: $149/night
Pensacola
Sweet Dream Inn: $74/night
Rodeway Inn Pensacola: $76.49/night
OYO Hotel Pensacola: $62/night
Camping Locations
Henderson Beach State Park Campground
The Florida Fun Continues...
We hope you enjoyed our Perfect Paddles Guide to the Emerald Coast. This beautiful stretch of land in Florida has endless places to see, experience, and endless places to have fun.
Here you can paddle some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With views like you’ll see along the Emerald Coast, you should make this place a must-visit for your paddling plans.
Looking for a location outside of the Emerald Coast? Then check out the rest of our Florida resources by clicking on our SUP Search section on Perfect Paddles! The fun in Florida never ends and we hope to help guide you in creating the perfect trip down south!
Looking to paddle in different parts of Florida? Check out these additional Perfect Paddles Guides:
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