Which is better for a group, surfing or paddleboarding? Paddleboarding is usually the gentler choice for mixed groups and first timers. Surfing is more of a challenge and suits groups who want a sea day with a bit of adrenaline.
The table below is a general guide. Providers differ, so check the details with the one you choose.
| Factor | Surfing | Stand up paddleboarding |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Active groups who like a challenge | Mixed groups and first timers |
| Beginners | Fine with a lesson, but you will fall a lot | Easy to start on calm water |
| Where it happens | Beaches with waves | Lakes, rivers, sheltered bays and calm sea |
| Team interaction | Shared lesson, then each person rides alone | Easy to stay together and chat |
| Physical effort | High, paddling out is tiring | Low to moderate |
| Kit | Board and wetsuit usually supplied | Board, paddle and buoyancy aid usually supplied |
| Weather and conditions | Needs the right swell and tide | Needs calm wind and water |
What is surfing?
You lie on a board, paddle into a wave and stand up as it carries you towards the beach. Beginner lessons usually happen in small, white water waves close to the shore. It is tiring and you will spend a fair bit of time in the water, so a wetsuit is normal for most of the year.
What is paddleboarding?
You stand or kneel on a wide board and use a long paddle to move across the water. It is mostly about balance and rhythm. Most people are standing within the first few minutes, and falling in is part of the fun.
Which suits a corporate group?
Paddleboarding is easier to organise for a mixed group. Fitness and confidence vary less, and people can stay close to each other. Surfing works well for a keen team that wants a challenge, as long as everyone is happy being in the sea.
Which is more physical?
Surfing, by a distance. Paddling out through the waves and getting up on the board uses your whole body. Paddleboarding can be as gentle or as tiring as you make it.
Which is more weather dependent?
Both. Surfing needs waves of the right size, and flat days can cancel a session. Paddleboarding needs light wind, because a strong breeze makes it hard work and can be unsafe. Ask how the provider handles a change of plan, and read our weather and cancellation guide.
Cost
Prices vary between providers and places. Ask for a quote for your group size and check what kit is included.
Safety
Both take place in open water, so ask about instructors in the water, buoyancy aids, leashes and what happens if someone gets tired. Our water activity safety guide lists what to ask.
Where to look
See the surfing and paddleboarding pages for providers across the UK.
In short:
- Paddleboarding suits mixed groups and calm water
- Surfing suits keen groups who want a challenge
- Both depend on wind, waves and water conditions