SUP in Tuscany: itineraries for every season
If you're a Stand Up Paddle enthusiast and are wondering where to paddle in Tuscany, you're on the right page!
Stand Up Paddle (SUP) is an increasingly popular sport in Italy, yet few people know its ancient origins, which extend beyond the Polynesian waters where its famous ancestor, surfing, was born. James Cook is the first European to have provided evidence of "board sports," although at the time it was neither surfing nor SUP. In 1777, he observed a Tahiti native riding the waves using a canoe.
Board sports became global around the 1960s, propelled by the first international competition held in 1956 in Makaha, Hawaii, and by subsequent successful films like The Endless Summer, Blue Hawaii with Elvis Presley, and Ride the Wild Surf, just to name a few.
But let's get back to our main topic: Tuscany 2022!
WHERE TO GO SUPing IN TUSCANY: FORTE DEI MARMI
Known primarily for the luxuriousness of its beaches and venues, Forte dei Marmi is probably the best place to do SUP in Tuscany, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider.
Located 40 km away from Viareggio, in the heart of the beautiful Versilia, Forte dei Marmi became internationally known back in the 1970s due to its beautiful waves. Its main features are crystal-clear waters and a highly variable beach break, where waves break over sandy bottoms.
The pier area is ideal for the most experienced surfers. This is because the pier, built in the 17th century, extends over 300 meters into the sea, allowing passersby to enjoy the tricks of the most skilled riders even as simple spectators, while the surfers themselves revel in showcasing their abilities.
WHERE TO GO SUPing IN TUSCANY: MARINA DI PIETRASANTA
If, on the other hand, you are looking for a place where to practice your SUP as a beginner, then look no further than Marina di Pietrasanta.
Not only is this location famous for its stellar beaches and startling panorama (especially the gardens), it is also great for stand-up paddleboarding because you can book lessons with instructors who will guide you through your SUP learning journey. This will be eased by the fact that waves here are generally gentler and easier to ride when compared to Forte dei Marmi.
WHERE TO GO PRACTICE SUPing IN TUSCANY: FROM VIAREGGIO TO LIVORNO
Another safe place to SUP in Tuscany is Viareggio, where the artificial reef at Piazzale Mazzini offers an ideal spot for fun. Meanwhile, at Tito Molo, north of the pier, frequent storms often produce excellent waves; however, you should be careful here: it's best to ride these waves only if you already have good board skills!
Moving down the coast, other places to practice and enjoy Stand Up Paddle include the mouths of the Serchio and Arno rivers in the Pisa province. The Livorno area also has several beaches dedicated to board sports, with some of the most challenging spots on the entire west coast due to the rocky seabed.
We hope these tips will really help you choose where to do SUP in Tuscany. Now you just need to decide which type of board to start with, whether rigid or inflatable. If you're an enthusiast and experienced rider, you probably already have your equipment. But if you're a beginner, we recommend starting with an inflatable board. It's easier to transport, more resistant to minor impacts, and less dangerous during falls should you accidentally hit it.
This solution is also cheaper than a rigid board, but you'll need a reliable pump to avoid being stuck when it's time to paddle. There are three types of pumps: foot pumps, manual pumps, and electric pumps.
On our website you will find all the best solutions on the market. However, if you want a free consultation or more information, do not hesitate to contact us, we will be happy to help you!