Paddleboarding is a popular outdoor sport and possibly the most fun way of enjoying and exploring the water. You must invest in the best paddle boards for beginners, as per our expertise, if you are new to this water-based activity and wish to make the most of your experience while being safe. It is not as easy as it looks, both paddleboarding and finding the right kind of paddle board to kickstart your SUP journey. You also possibly won’t have the luxury to test every paddle board available in the market. So, we did the homework for you where we tried and tested a variety of paddle boards.

A paddle board, also known as a Stand-Up Paddleboard or SUP, is a watercraft used for paddleboarding. Imagine a surfboard, but longer, wider, and more versatile. We like to think of it as a convenient combo of boat and surfboard elements. It shares the surfboard's shape but provides extra width for sitting, and to make it move forward, you use a paddle, just like in a boat. What's more, a paddleboard can be used for navigating calm, flat waters or riding the waves.

Typically, there are two types of paddle boards, inflatable and solid. However, our research indicates that inflatable paddle boards are considered to be the ideal paddle boards for beginners as they are wider, more stable, lightweight, convenient to carry around, and easy to set up or break down with incredible maneuvering. You may sit on it and relax on a lake or go wading through a river while standing upright. You can also do yoga or simply float around, taking in the serene beauty, with your furry friend. No matter what you need, there’s a paddle board for you on our list.  

We have rounded up 13 of our top choices that are worth your time and money after testing them based on their size, capacity, quality, portability, maneuverability, overall performance, and customer reviews. Read ahead to learn more about our handpicked recommendations and what you need to do to find your perfect paddle board match.   

• 1
  Best Lightweight

  SereneLife Stand Up Paddle Board

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Dive into the world of paddleboarding with only the best. The SereneLife Thunder Waves Paddle Board offers outstanding performance with ease and convenience suitable for beginners. Made from durable materials, it can withstand the rigors of water and weather. The dual-layered drop stitch core and the soft non-slip EVA deck pad allow you to be more in control as you maneuver your way through calm waters or small waves. Three fins on the bottom make for easy steering. Now wonder this board has been the popular choice as the best stand up paddle board for beginners. Based on our firsthand experience, you can also use it for surfing and fishing.

Key Specifications

• Size: 120 x 32 x 6 inches
• Weight: 13.9lbs
• Capacity: 275lbs
• Material: PVC

2

Best for Balance

Roc Sup Co. Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

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It is best to invest in beginner paddle boards that come with everything you may need to embark on your very first SUP journey. Get ready to explore the waterways with this incredibly stable and durable paddle board that can be used in many different ways. Whether you want to go on a solo trip around the lake or do it with your furry friends and family, this board takes care of all your needs and comfort. It has a wide design that allows you to sit and kayak apart from going around standing upright. With premium-grade accessories such as detachable fins, a collapsible paddle, a carry bag, a dual-action manual pump, etc., this paddle board elevates your overall experience. Through our practical knowledge, we suggest investing in an electric pump for easy, quick, and smooth inflation.

Key Specifications

• Size: 120 x 33 x 6 inches
• Weight: 17.5lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 300lbs
• Material: PVC

3

Best Ergonomic Design

FunWater Paddle Board

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This beginner paddle board, true to its name, is quite a fun addition to your journey of water adventures. It works great for a newbie with zero paddle-boarding skills. From the exciting colors to the ease of maneuvering, this inflatable paddle board is a popular choice for beginners. It is tougher than it looks and can withstand different water and weather conditions that may be thrown its way. It is relatively lighter than other boards of the same size and has an ergonomic design that allows you to paddle with ease. When we trialed this product, we were left mighty impressed with its easy-to-read barometer, letting you read the inflation pressure with ease and accuracy. 

Key Specifications

• Size: 126 x 33 x 6 inches
• Weight: 19lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 330lbs
• Material: PVC

4

Best Multi-purpose

FBSPORT SUP Paddle Board

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A beginner stand up paddle board with hassle-free assembly and operation is what you need. And we have just the thing for you. This FBSPORT paddle board is made of high-quality material and comes loaded with premium upgrades. It aims to make paddleboarding easy, secure, and comfortable for you, and boy, does it succeed in doing so! The electric air pump allows for fast inflation and deflation with real-time monitoring of the air pressure on its LCD screen. The 2 fixed fins and the one detachable fin add to its steering prowess. After conducting experiments with it, we can say it is great for so much more than paddling, like fishing, surfing, yoga, cruising, and sightseeing in water.

Key Specifications

• Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches
• Weight: 33lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 400lbs
• Material: PVC

5

Best Overall

FunWater Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

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Available in multiple colors and patterns, this is the best paddleboard for beginners that covers all the bases and ticks all the boxes. With its fun designs, you are promised to have fun on the water as you go paddling away. It is one of the lightest boards in its segment and tougher than it looks. Its resilient construction gives it a long service life. There are bungee strings for storage on one end and the air valve for inflation on the other end. Our investigation demonstrated that its anti-slip EVA deck has an anti-UV coating which acts as an additional layer of protection against the sun, making sure your paddle board stays as good as new for a long time. You can easily fold it up and carry it in a backpack-style bag wherever you go.

Key Specifications

• Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches 
• Weight: 27.21lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 330lbs
• Material: PVC

6

Best Non-slip Deck

Run Wave Kohala Paddle Board

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You won't be disappointed with the Kohala paddle board, which has been labeled as the best beginner stand up paddle board by many paddleboarders and enthusiasts. From flat freshwater to seawater full of (small) waves, you can take this board anywhere and watch it glide smoothly as butter. The drop stitch core construction with PVC exterior allows the board to retain its shape in water for your first as well as the hundredth dip. You can rest assured with the extra grip granted by the non-slip pattern on the deck. You may also surf securely, thanks to the foot leash that comes with this paddle board.

Key Specifications

• Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches
• Weight: 25lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 360lbs
• Material: PVC

7

Most Easy to Assemble

FEATH-R-LITE Paddle Board

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This paddleboard for beginners with multi-functional use is something that you will fall in love with instantly. From its UV-resistant digital print to the very convenient D-rings, it is loaded with multiple features. You can inflate or deflate it quickly and easily so that more of your time is spent enjoying the day. The bungee offers secure storage for your gear, then there's the grab handle which makes it easier for you to grip and carry the paddle board around. It comes with the basic accessories you may need on your voyage, including removable fins, leash, pump, waterproof bag for your phone and wallet, pump, 3-piece adjustable paddle, and a carrying backpack. Our findings show that the board can accommodate 1 to 2 people without compromising on stability. You can take your kids with you or your pet dog for an adventurous day in the waterways.

Key Specifications

• Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches
• Weight: 21.6lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 330lbs
• Material: PVC

8

Best Portable

YASKA Inflatable SUP Paddle Board

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The YASKA Inflatable Paddle Board gets the job done like no other. Thanks to its lighter weight and wide grip handles, you can carry it around wherever you go with ease. And that's not where this convenience ends. It deflates quickly and is extremely easy to fold, which is an added benefit as it allows you to pack the folded board inside its carrying bag with ease, something that is not always possible with other inflatable SUPs. This is the best beginner inflatable paddle board, thanks to its steady structure. Moreover, this stable board comes with an adjustable paddle, allowing the user to adjust it to their height for better usage. 

Key Specifications

• Size: 127.2 x 32 x 6 inches
• Weight: 26.46lbs 
• Maximum Capacity: 330lbs 
• Material: PVC, EVA

9

Best for Maneuvering

Crew & Axel Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

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Start your paddleboarding journey with this SUP from Crew & Axel, which comes in the most fun colors you can lay your eyes on. It is super lightweight and can easily accommodate up to two riders on its large anti-slip EVA deck pad. You can attach a kayak seat with ease to this thicker board using the 4 D-rings for longer voyages. No matter how far you go, its military-grade reinforced valves ensure there are no leaks whatsoever. The camera mount allows you to set up your trusty GoPro to capture the scenic beauty as you go exploring the waters. This is the best beginner paddle board given how comfortable, stable, and secure it is. After putting it to the test, we can say that it is ideal to be used in different water conditions and water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and oceans.

Key Specifications

• Size: 120 x 33 x 6.2 inches
• Weight: 17lbs 
• Maximum Capacity: 350lbs
• Material: Plastic

10

Best for Family

MYBOAT Inflatable Paddle Board

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Safe, secure, and stylish—that's how we will describe the Bass Hunter paddle board. It offers multiple features and comes with many accessories that not only fulfill your basic paddleboarding needs but also go the extra mile to elevate your overall experience. With an inflation range of 12-15 PSI and a maximum bearing capacity of 430 lbs, it can easily carry the weight of multiple people without losing its balance and stability. It is the perfect paddle board for spending time with your family and pets. There are two safety handles on the front which your children can grab as they enjoy the serene and scenic beauty around them. Our team discovered through using this product that it has a wider-than-usual deck, which allows beginners to stand or sit comfortably. 

Key Specifications

• Size: 126 x 35 x 6 inches
• Weight: 30lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 430lbs
• Material: PVC

11

UPWELL Paddle Board

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Start your paddleboarding journey with a multi-purpose paddle board that offers to show you the world of water. It is an all-around board that you can use for so much more than just traveling. It offers such an incredible balance and stability that you can easily do yoga, surfing, and even fishing on it. Whether you want to stand or sit comfortably, the choice is completely yours because this paddle board will support you all the way. A unique feature is the removable kayaking seat made from soft EVA foam that will take your paddleboarding experience to the next level. As indicated by our tests, this is the best inflatable paddle board for beginners that will last you a very long time as you enhance your skill levels.

Key Specifications

• Size: 126 x 32 x 6 inches
• Weight: 18lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 450lbs
• Material: PVC

12

Abahub Paddle Board

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When you are new to paddleboarding, maintaining your balance while standing up may feel challenging. That's why paddle boards for beginners need to be wide enough, allowing them to paddle from a sitting position. And we found the perfect board for you to do that. This one offers great stability as you kayak your way through calm waters and small waves. The durable bungee elastic allows you to store your gear securely and the soft anti-slip handle makes grabbing the board easier and more comfortable. Drawing from our experience, its thoughtful design meets all your needs as a beginner. Moreover, it comes with a lot of accessories, including 3 removable fins. waterproof pouch for your mobile phone, coiled leash, pump, adjustable paddle, and a repair kit, among others.

Key Specifications

• Size:186 x 31 x 6 inches
• Weight: 22.5lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 297lbs
• Material: PVC

13

Shridinlay Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

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From lakes to oceans, enjoy a hassle-free assembly and a smooth ride with this inflatable paddle board from Shridinlay. Whether you decide to sit, kneel, or stand, you can do it all with ease while maintaining stability as you navigate the waters, thanks to its cushioned, waterproof, and non-slip EVA deck pad as well as the reinforced drop stitch core. The high-quality valve ensures that air doesn't leak while you are out and about. That's not all though. This board comes with everything that you may require as a beginner, including an air pump, safety leash, collapsible aluminum paddle for advanced paddlers as well as beginners, repair kit, and a carry bag, making it the best paddle board for beginners.

Key Specifications

• Size: 125.98 x 29.92 x 5.91 inches
• Weight: 31.92lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 286lbs
• Material: PVC

Finding the best paddle boards for beginners is crucial for an adventurous yet safe paddling experience. And we are here to guide you to making an informed choice. Here are a few factors that you must keep in mind while buying a paddle board as a beginner:

Type of Paddle Board

Paddle boards come in different types, including all-around, touring, surfing, inflatable, hard, and multi-person paddle boards, to name a few. You must pick the one that fits your needs and requirements as a beginner. It is advisable to opt either for an all-around paddle board or an inflatable one as they offer more stability and versatility than others.

Size and Capacity

This is a place where size truly matters. Longer and wider boards are more stable, and thus, ideal for beginners. The ideal paddle board sizes for beginners are at least 10 feet long and 30 inches wide will get the job done. Make sure you can sit and stand on top of the board comfortably. The paddle board must be able to handle your weight and the weight of your gear. So, you must consider the weight capacity you seek from the board based on your weight, the weight of all your gear, and the weight of the extra passengers. 

Material

Paddle boards are usually constructed with a foam core and epoxy resin, fiberglass, or plastic. However, inflatable paddle boards for beginners use heavy-duty PVC for the outer shell with a double-stitch core.

Accessories

Pick out a paddle board that comes with a bunch of accessories such as a paddle, fins, carrying bag, pump, ankle strap, etc., so that you don't have to run here and there looking and feeling confused about what to purchase. Though, you may still have to purchase some items separately, like life jackets and an extra paddle.

Storage Space

You must be mindful of the space you can manage to free for storing the paddle board before going ahead with your purchase.

Additional Features

Look for extra features like multiple fins, a non-slip deck pad, a bungee storage area, a full-length deck pad, an ankle leash, rod holders, and a handle to carry. You must opt for a paddle board that's stable, portable, durable, and multi-purpose. Buy from a reputed manufacturer to ensure high-quality goods. Look for a kick pad, which ensures more slip resistance and cushioning for beginner paddlers. A kayak conversion kit is another great feature that you can look for. Most paddle boards come with a center handle that helps you position yourself at the center of the board.

Budget

As a newbie to the sport, you must not spend a lot of money on buying a paddle board and opt for something at an affordable price. Buy a board that's cheaper but gets the job done. See if you like paddleboarding first and learn to balance and stabilize the board before committing to a better and more expensive model.

Reviews 

Read customer reviews on various online platforms, online forums, and blogs. This can give insights into the real-life performance of the paddle boards you wish to buy.