Manly Paddle Board Hire & North Harbour SUP Experience

Summary

SUP Rental in Manly: Easy Start & Local Tips

You’ll start your SUP experience in Manly with friendly local staff who’ll help you get set up and share some tips if you need them. Paddle around North Harbour at your own pace — maybe near the yachts or further out if you’re feeling bold — with all gear included. Expect some laughs, salty air, and moments of quiet you’ll remember long after drying off.

What’s the experience like?

I was already laughing before I even got on the board — my friend forgot her hat and tried to borrow mine, which is about two sizes too small for her. The staff at the Manly SUP hire spot didn’t seem fazed by our chaos; one of them, I think his name was Tom, just grinned and handed us paddles while explaining how not to fall in (I did anyway, but only once). The boards felt soft under my feet, kind of reassuring if you’re new to this like I was. There’s something about the salt in the air here that makes everything feel a bit lighter.

We set off into North Harbour, dodging a couple of yachts that looked way fancier than anything I’ll ever own. The water was calm — almost glassy — and you could hear gulls somewhere behind us. Tom had given us a quick rundown on basic paddling techniques before we left, which honestly helped more than I expected. My arms burned after about ten minutes but in a good way. There’s this moment when you stop thinking about balancing and just look up — the sky over Manly is huge, and there’s always someone waving from a passing kayak or just floating nearby. It felt weirdly communal.

I kept drifting toward the moored boats because it was easier than trying to go further out (don’t judge me), but eventually we did explore a bit more. You can rent these paddle boards for two hours, which is enough time to mess around and still have a few quiet stretches where it’s just you and the water. At one point my friend tried to race me back toward shore — she lost her paddle for a second and we both ended up laughing so hard we nearly tipped over again. I still think about that view of Manly from out on the water; it’s different when you’re right there, moving at your own speed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Stand Up Paddle Boarding

• Rent and paddle SUP in Manly’s North Harbour

Top questions

Is previous paddle boarding experience required?

No, previous experience is preferred but not required for this SUP hire.

How long can I use the paddle board?

The rental period for each paddle board is two hours.

Is equipment provided with the SUP hire?

Yes, all necessary equipment including paddle, dry bag, and lifejacket (on request) is provided.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes, all participants must be able to swim 150 meters in open waters.

Are lessons available for beginners?

Yes, lessons with an instructor can be booked separately if you haven’t SUPped before.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Can people with spinal injuries participate?

No, this activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the location.

What level of fitness do I need?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for this activity.

What’s included

Your time on the water includes use of a stand up paddle board suited to your skill level, a paddle, dry bag for your belongings, and a lifejacket if you want one—all ready for pickup right at Manly’s North Harbour before heading out at your own pace.