United Kingdom
SUP in the South West, Salcombe Estuary
Intro
The Salcombe/Kingsbridge Estuary is a picturesque body of water located in the South West of England in an Area of Natural Beauty (AONB).
There are some stunning coastal walks and views surround this estuary but its real highlight has to be the miles of creeks and coves within the relative shelter of the natural harbour, making it a perfect place to SUP in the south west.
Salcombe is a popular destination and has all the charms of the Mediterranean with clear waters and golden beaches, it also benefits from a micro climate which allows the growth of tropical plants not found anywhere else in the UK. Locally is it known as Sunny Salcombe, it just may be a little cooler at certain times of year!
Highlights
The formation of the Estuary means there is always a nice sheltered spot to SUP and plenty see and explore en route, planning the tides means you can also make an exploration day much easier allowing you the casually cruise along and soak up the scenery.
There are 40km of to creeks paddle around and an abundance of wildlife such as seals, cormorants, kingfishers, egrets, bass, grey mullet, place, seahorses, and a pod of dolphins has also previously been spotted around the harbour too!
The scenery changes on every section of this paddle as well as at different times of the year.
In the summer, vibrant greenery surrounds you with a bustling atmosphere on and off the water. Autumn brings the oranges and browns and low lying light hitting the water creating amazing reflections on those calm glassy days.
Winter feels peaceful with little water activity from other boats, you can truly lose yourself in your thoughts concentrating on the sound of the water. Spring brings the rebirth of life and rich colours return with nesting birds and the hope of warmer and longer days to enjoy the SUP adventures for a new year.
This really is a beautiful place to paddle board, all year round.
Local Knowledge
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Sat Nav
50.224641,-3.784554
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Nearest Parking
There is some parking located around the North Sands area.
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Launch Point
Launch from North or South Sands in Salcombe.
Or you can easily do this route in reverse with an early morning breakfast paddle from Kingsbridge to Salcombe, Captain Morgan’s at Whitestrand in the town centre or The Winking Prawn at North Sands are good breakfast stops!
If you want a guided tour of the wrecks and deep history of the Estuary then the staff at Waterborn offer SUP tours so you don’t miss a thing! They specialise in beginner lessons and hire is also available for those that have SUPed before.
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Places to Eat / Drink
Captain Morgan’s at Whitestrand in the town centre
The Winking Prawn at North Sands
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