Where to Paddleboard in Norfolk 6m Lovat Lovat Parks 26/06/25 Norfolk is renowned for its stunning waterways, tranquil broads, and beautiful coastline making it the perfect destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned paddleboarder or trying it for the first time, exploring Norfolk’s waterways on a paddleboard is a fun, active, and family-friendly way to connect with nature. Paddleboarding offers a unique perspective on the area’s wildlife, charming villages, and pristine beaches, all while enjoying a refreshing workout. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top paddleboarding locations across Norfolk with easy access from our Waxham Sands Holiday Park, including hidden gems on the Broads and beautiful coastal beaches. We’ll also cover where to hire paddleboards locally and how we can help make your adventure even easier. Best Paddleboarding Locations in Norfolk Norfolk’s mix of rivers, broads, and beaches provides varied and accessible spots for paddleboarding, from calm inland waters to scenic coastal stretches. Here are some of the best places to paddleboard around Norfolk, each with its own unique charm and facilities. River Ant A serene and scenic river, the River Ant winds through the Norfolk Broads, offering paddlers an opportunity to glide past lush reed beds, charming wildlife, and quaint waterside villages. This location is perfect for those seeking a peaceful paddleboarding experience away from the crowds. Just some of the reasons to visit River Ant include: Easy parking available at multiple access points Calm waters ideal for beginners and families Nearby facilities including cafes and boat hire Distance: 30 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Horstead Mill Located near Coltishall, Horstead Mill is a beautiful spot with calm waters and a rich history (mentioned in the Domesday book by William the Conqueror in 1086). The area offers ample space for paddleboarding and is close to walking trails and picnic spots, making it great for a full day out. On-site parking and easy access to the water Quiet, natural surroundings perfect for wildlife spotting Nearby hire shops for equipment and guidance Distance: 35 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Hoveton Little Broad This tranquil broad is smaller and less crowded, ideal for relaxed paddling and enjoying Norfolk’s peaceful water landscapes. It’s surrounded by natural beauty and provides a safe environment for paddlers of all skill levels. Calm, shallow waters ideal for novices Picnic and seating areas nearby Scenic views and abundant birdlife Distance: 35 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Coltishall A charming village on the River Bure, Coltishall is a fantastic paddleboarding base with easy river access. Explore the winding riverbanks or venture further into the Broads network, stopping at local pubs and shops. Riverside parking and launch points Facilities include cafes, pubs, and shops Family-friendly environment with gentle currents Distance: 30 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Malthouse Broad Malthouse Broad offers a beautiful expanse of water surrounded by reed beds and wildlife. It’s perfect for paddlers looking for a scenic and peaceful spot to enjoy nature. Quiet and less busy than other broads Good access points and parking Opportunities to see native birds and flora Distance: 30 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Salhouse Broad One of the larger broads, Salhouse Broad is popular among paddleboarders for its size and variety of routes. The broad offers safe waters and plenty of space to practice and explore. Large open water space suitable for all levels Facilities nearby including boat hire and parking Access to scenic trails and wildlife watching Distance: 30 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Lyng Lyng is a hidden gem that’s a bit further out but worth it for a spot of peaceful paddling with stunning natural surroundings. The waters here are calm, and the area has fewer visitors, making it a perfect escape for those wanting to paddle in tranquility. Secluded location with easy water access Ideal for bird watching and nature lovers Safe, calm water perfect for beginners Distance: 50 minute drive from Waxham Sands Holiday Park Coastal Paddleboarding Spots If you prefer to combine your paddleboarding with a day at the beach, Norfolk offers some fantastic coastal locations: Waxham Beach – A wide, sandy beach with gentle surf, perfect for paddleboarding beginners and families. With parking and beach facilities nearby, our park backs directly onto Waxham Beach so you couldn’t be closer! Cromer Beach – Famous for its pier and vibrant seaside atmosphere, Cromer offers good conditions for paddleboarding with beautiful sea views and just a 45 minute drive from our Waxham Sands Holiday Park. Gorleston Beach – Located near Great Yarmouth, Gorleston has calm areas sheltered from strong tides, perfect for paddleboarding close to town and fairly close to Waxham Sands. You could be there in just a 40 minute drive. Oulton Broad – Part of the Broads network but with a more coastal feel, Oulton Broad is excellent for paddleboarding, with water sports facilities and local shops. You could be on the water after just a 45 minute drive. Hiring SUPs in Norfolk If you don’t have your own paddleboard, Norfolk is well-equipped with rental options, making it easy to try paddleboarding during your visit. Here are some trusted places where you can hire stand-up paddleboards (SUPs): Broads Adventure – Based near Wroxham, they offer SUP hire, lessons, and guided tours. Norfolk SUP Hire – Located close to the Broads, providing flexible rental options and beginner advice. Coastline Paddleboarding – Serving the Cromer and North Norfolk coast, perfect for beach paddleboarding. Oulton Broad Watersports Centre – Equipment hire, lessons, and group activities on Oulton Broad. Coltishall Watersports – Offers SUP hire on the River Bure and surrounding broads. And the best part? If you’re staying with Lovat Parks, you can conveniently store your paddleboarding kit safely in your holiday home, ready for your next adventure on the water. If you don’t fancy the expense of hiring gear, you can also take to the water with one of our free belly boards, available exclusively to our guests. But why stop there? Dive into the refreshing thrill of wild swimming in the region’s pristine lakes and rivers—an exhilarating way to connect with nature up close. Discover our region’s breathtaking waterways like never before. Whether you’re paddling along serene shores or taking a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, these experiences aren’t just sports—they’re unforgettable ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, wildlife, and charm of our beautiful region. Ready to plan your paddleboarding holiday? Take a look around to find your perfect holiday home or touring and camping pitch in Norfolk and start your adventure today. Book now Link copied
