Explore the Best Paddleboarding Destinations in New Zealand’s South Island
The South Island of New Zealand is famed for its breathtaking landscapes, offering dramatic mountain ranges, fresh lakes, and rugged coastlines. For paddleboarding enthusiasts, the South Island is a paradise with crystal-clear waters and remote spots that promise adventure, relaxation and solitude. Here are our top 10 paddleboarding locations for you to discover on the South Island, each offering a unique paddling experience.
1. Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown
Why it’s great:
Lapping at the shores of one of New Zealands most sort after city is Lake Wakatipu. But don’t let the big city put you off paddling, the lake is huge and surrounded by towering mountains, offering paddleboarders unmatched scenic views. The lake’s calm waters and numerous bays provide ideal conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers alike with plenty of secluded areas to explore. Paddle at sunrise or sunset for a truly magical experience with the surrounding peaks bathed in golden light and be amazed at the natural tide that causes the lake to rise and fall around 10cm each day. After paddling you can head into Queenstown to sample the nightlife or eat at one of the many restaurants overlooking the lake.
Where to park & launch: Parking is available at the Queenstown Gardens or at One Mile Car Park, providing easy access to the lake. Launch from anywhere along the peninsula at the Queenstown gardens or directly from the One Mile Car Park for stunning views and easy access to the lake’s calmer areas.
2. Abel Tasman National Park
Why it’s great:
For those looking for a more adventurous excursion, the sheltered coastal waters of Abel Tasman National Park make it one of the best multi-day paddleboarding spots in New Zealand. Paddle along the stunning coastline with golden beaches, lush native bush, and crystal-clear waters. You can explore secluded bays, islands, and marine life, including seals and dolphins. The peaceful, protected environment makes it perfect for a relaxing paddle and you can pack a pair of trainers to explore the coastal trails and catch a sunset in the evenings. Be sure to pack out everything you pack in and leave no trace.
Where to park & launch: Park at Marahau or Kaiteriteri Beach, both of which have facilities and direct access to the park. Launch from Kaiteriteri Beach for easy access to the sheltered waters and to start your multi-day adventure or from Mārahau Kayak Launch.
3. Lake Wanaka
Why it’s great:
Lake Wanaka offers an expansive and relaxing paddling experience, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and beautiful landscapes. The lake is known for its calm conditions, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. You can paddle out to Ruby Island, a small, picturesque island located in the middle of the lake, or take a picture by lone tree on the southern end of the lake. After paddling, Wanaka offers a range of lovely restaurants and craft breweries to finish the day.
Where to park & launch: There are car parks available along the Wanaka lakefront, with plenty of space near Pembroke Park. Launch from Roys Bay near the Wanaka Tree for calm waters and a direct route to Ruby Island.
4. Akaroa Harbour
Why it’s great:
Located on the Banks Peninsula in the Canterbury region, Akaroa Harbour offers a unique paddleboarding experience in a sheltered volcanic crater. The calm, protected waters are ideal for paddling, and the area is rich in marine life. Paddleboarders can often spot dolphins, penguins, and seals, making it an unforgettable wildlife experience. The stunning scenery and charming French-influenced village add to the experience of Akaroa and will make you feel like you are abroad.
Where to park & launch: Park near the Akaroa Main Wharf or along Beach Road for easy access to the harbour. Launch from the main beach at Akaroa for calm, protected waters and access to the inner bays.
5. Marlborough Sounds
Why it’s great:
The Marlborough Sounds, a network of drowned valleys and sheltered waterways, is perfect for paddleboarding adventures. The scenic waters, surrounded by lush hills and native forest, offer plenty of exploration opportunities. Paddle through peaceful coves and bays while enjoying the rich marine life, including dolphins, stingrays, and seabirds. The lack of access makes for some amazing secluded camp spots, so gear up for a multi-day paddling trip for added adventure.
Where to park & launch: A short drive from Picton is Ngakuta Bay Boat Ramp in Ngakuta Bay which provides good access to the Sounds. Another good option is Log Wharf Reserve in Havelock, although parking is limited at this spot, but it is a great place to access the water by paddle board.
6. Lake Tekapo
Why it’s great:
Famed for its stunning turquoise waters, Lake Tekapo offers one of the most unique paddleboarding experiences in the South Island. The lake's striking color comes from glacial silt, making it a great place to take photos and take home memories. With the dramatic Southern Alps as a backdrop and wide-open waters, Lake Tekapo provides a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience for paddleboarders. It’s also one of the best spots for stargazing, thanks to its designation as a Dark Sky Reserve and limited light pollution.
Where to park & launch: Parking is available at the Tekapo Lakefront by the Church of the Good Shepherd or the Tekapo Springs area. Launch from the Tekapo Lakefront beach or the boat ramp near Tekapo Springs for easy access to the lake’s open waters.
7. Pohara Beach, Golden Bay
Why it’s great:
Located in the far north of the South Island, Pohara Beach offers golden sands and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for day-trip paddleboarding. The shallow, clear waters stretch out for miles, allowing paddlers to explore at their leisure and at low tide the expansive sandy beach offers plenty of sun tanning opportunities. The surrounding natural beauty of Golden Bay, combined with the peacefulness of the beach, makes this a great destination for a relaxing paddle.
Where to park & launch: Park along Pohara Beach Esplanade, Pohara Beach Public Car Park
or at the nearby Pohara Beach Holiday Park for easy access. Launch directly from the wide sandy beach at Pohara for calm waters and picturesque paddling.
8. Lake Hawea
Why it’s great:
Just a short drive from Wanaka, Lake Hawea is another stunning alpine lake offering a relaxing paddleboarding experience. Less crowded than its neighbor Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea has 19 miles of crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by classic New Zealand rugged mountains. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path paddle. The lake’s calm conditions, expansive shoreline and pristine scenery make it a hidden gem for paddleboarders.
Where to park & launch: There are plenty of places to park at the Hawea Township near the lakefront or along Lakeview Terrace for quick access to the water. Launch from the beach at Hawea Township for a peaceful paddle or explore the lake’s secluded bays from other access points along the shore.
9. Sumner Beach, Christchurch
Why it’s great:
Sumner Beach is a popular spot for paddleboarding near Christchurch, offering calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs, hills and city. The beach is well-suited for beginner paddleboarders due to its gentle waves and accessible location. It’s a great spot for those who want to paddle close to the city while still enjoying a beach environment. Make sure to walk through Cave Rock at low tide for a unique experience.
Where to park & launch: Parking is available along the Esplanade near Sumner Beach or at the beachside parking areas by Cave Rock. Launch from Sumner Beach for beginner-friendly paddling and a beautiful view of the surrounding cliffs and hills.
10. Milford Sound
Why it’s great:
Paddleboarding in Milford Sound offers a dramatic and unforgettable experience in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine waters make this a memorable paddling destination. While the weather can be unpredictable, a calm day at Milford Sound is just pure magic, allowing you to paddle through calm waters with the stunning fiords as a backdrop. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and ocean birds as you paddle through this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Where to park & launch: Park at the Milford Sound Public Carpark, which provides close access to the water. Launch from the carpark for breathtaking paddling through the fiords or carry on driving to Te Anau where you can park at the Manapouri Cycle Trail Head and access the water via a boat ramp.
From the stunning alpine lakes of Wanaka and Hawea to the sheltered coastal waters of Abel Tasman and Marlborough Sounds, the South Island of New Zealand offers paddleboarders an incredible variety of landscapes to explore. Whether you prefer the tranquility of lakes or the adventure of paddling along rugged coastlines, these top 10 paddleboarding spots provide unforgettable experiences. Grab your board and explore the natural beauty of the South Island, one paddle stroke at a time!
Check out our best picks for paddleboarding in the North Island of New Zealand HERE.
