Fort Lauderdale: Paddle board lesson with guide & photos

Summary

Trying paddle boarding in Fort Lauderdale’s calm canals with a patient guide

You’ll step onto your own paddle board in Fort Lauderdale’s calm waterways with a local guide by your side, learning at your own pace as you pass mansions and mangroves. Expect gentle encouragement, real technique tips, complimentary photos (even if you’re wobbly), and time to soak up those peaceful canal moments you’ll remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the quiet — just this soft slap of water against the boards and a couple of egrets watching us from the mangroves. I’d never tried stand up paddle boarding before, so when our instructor handed me a board that “fits your height, trust me,” I was honestly nervous. The boards were lined up in the backyard, sun-warmed and all different colors. My hands felt clumsy on the paddle at first, but our guide (I think his name was Chris?) just grinned and said, “You’ll get it — everyone wobbles.” He was right. The first few minutes were mostly me trying not to fall in while he floated nearby, giving little tips about foot placement and how to turn without spinning out.

We drifted past these huge houses — some with yachts bigger than my apartment building — and then into a quieter stretch where you could smell salt and something green, like wet leaves. Chris pointed out a manatee bubble trail (I didn’t see it, but I wanted to believe), and we talked about how the mangroves protect the shoreline here. At one point I almost lost my balance when a fish jumped right next to my board; Chris laughed and said it happens all the time. There was music playing faintly from somewhere back at the dock, but mostly it was just us and the water. He took some photos for me too — probably caught my best “trying not to fall” face.

I liked that there wasn’t any rush. After maybe forty minutes of paddling (time gets weird out there), we circled back so I could try switching boards — apparently there are subtle differences between them, which Chris explained patiently even though I probably mixed up half the terms. By then my legs were shaking a bit but in that good way, like after a hike. We sat on our boards for a minute before heading in, just floating under some low branches while he told me about growing up around these canals. It felt easy to ask questions or just be quiet for a second.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson

• This lesson is ideal for personal attention
• Explain paddleboard differences and match board
• Get standing and paddle nearby for technique review
• Practice and discuss techniques with instructor

Top questions

Is this paddle board lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners with one-on-one instruction from a local guide.

How long does the lesson last?

The stand up paddle board lesson lasts about one hour.

Are all equipment and safety gear included?

Yes, paddle board, paddle, and life jacket are included for each guest.

Is free parking available at the location?

Yes, free parking is provided for guests joining the lesson.

Can children or infants join this activity?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on site; check with staff for details.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the location is wheelchair accessible.

Are service animals allowed during the lesson?

Yes, service animals are allowed on site.

Will I receive photos or videos from my lesson?

Complimentary photos and videos are included with your booking.

What’s included

Your experience includes free parking at the venue, use of a paddle board matched to your body type along with paddle and life jacket, plus complimentary photos and videos taken by your instructor during your session—all guided by a local expert who’ll help you learn at your own pace before you head back ashore.