Some people paddle board at night because they don’t have much time during the day, while others do it for a different experience.
Paddle boarding at night can be dangerous, so it is crucial to be prepared and have a plan before going out.
No matter what time you paddle board, it’s always a fun activity!
At night, you can gather with a group of friends, paddle around your favorite lake, and go on SUP tours.
Reasons For Paddleboarding At Night
There are several reasons why someone would want to paddleboard at night. Night paddleboarding can be a very different and enjoyable experience.
It can also be a great workout and a way to see the stars and skyline in a whole new light.
It Is Not as Crowded
If you have ever tried paddleboarding during the day when the weather is nice, you will likely see a lot of people enjoying the water. You will see people swimming, boating, and doing other activities in the water. You will also see people you don’t know paddleboarding next to you.
Why do people paddle board in the dark when they could do it in the daylight?
Different people have different reasons for night paddling, but things like your lifestyle, work schedule, and where you live can have a big influence on whether you choose to paddle in the daytime or at night.
Gain Easier Access
Nighttime paddleboarding can be just as fun as paddling during the day, without as much traffic on the water.
You can also enjoy different sights and activities that you would miss during the day, as long as you bring adequate lighting.
Opportunity for Solitude
Paddleboarding at night gives you the opportunity to explore locations that are usually busy during the day. With the water being so still, you get to see and hear things that you normally wouldn’t. You also have the chance to be alone with nature and appreciate everything around you.
If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit the lake or river is early in the morning or late at night.
The river will be mostly empty at night, so you’ll probably have it mostly to yourself.
You See What Happens Underwater
Paddleboarding at night can give you a different perspective of the scenery around you and many people find it to be more enjoyable than during the day. Plus, there are many great areas that you can explore by paddleboarding that you may not have thought of before.
Why not try it out with a friend and see for yourself?
The solitude and lights create a magnificent view of the trees, plants, open sky full of stars, and underwater views. This is something that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
Make Sure to Keep Safety Guidelines
Lights are very important to avoid serious threats. This is not only because you must use some safety precautions, but also because the coast guard requires LED lights at night. When you are out on the ocean with a board, you need to follow the same safety policies that are applied to boats, including having lights.
It is important for you and for other boats to be able to see each other to prevent risks and harm. Without lights, you may have limited visibility if there is no natural lighting. Limited visibility can be a big risk if you are out on the water, so make sure you always have lights with you.
Less Wind
It can be difficult to paddle a SUP board against the wind.
Paddling at Night Often Means Calm Water
One important benefit to Stand-up PaddleBoarding is that you don’t have to worry about the wind as much. Although there may still be some wind, it will generally be much calmer at night, which will give you a smooth surface to paddle on.
An Easier Paddle Boarding Journey
The advantage of paddling in less windy conditions is that you are less likely to be pushed off course, and you will have an easier time seeing what is happening around you. These factors combine to create an amazing journey that you would not be able to experience during the day.
It Won’t Interfere With Your Daily Life
It’s a shame that so many people can’t find the time to go SUP paddle boarding. Work, school, and other obligations often prevent people from enjoying outdoor activities with their family.
However, paddle boarding at night can be a great way to fit it into your schedule!
The Weather May Be Better
If you reside in a location with hot and humid days, you are probably trying to find activities that will keep you out of the sun. Paddle boarding at night is a great way to escape the harsh sun and enjoy the cooler night temperatures.
It is always important to check the weather conditions before going SUP paddleboarding at night. This is one of the most important tips to consider when taking your paddle board out at any time, to any location.
You may find that the area is still too hot at 8 p.m. and should be rescheduled, or that an unforeseen rainstorm or thunderstorm is going to hit at night and you should be prevented from a paddle tour for your safety.
It’s Fun and Adventurous
Paddle boarding in the evening is a great activity whether you go with a friend or a group. You’ll get to see some amazing sights while enjoying the paddle boarding experience.
Getting a group of friends together to go paddle boarding at night is a great way to have an adventure. If you know the area well, you can make a night of it by camping, fishing, building a fire, and bringing your dog.
If you’re not familiar with the area, you can join a tour group led by guides who give regular tours.
Things to Consider When Paddleboarding at Night
If you’ve got a hankering to try stand-up paddle boarding at night, we’ve got some tips to help you stay safe and comfortable while you’re exploring the dark waters.
Location
Before heading out on your night paddle, you should choose a safe and well-known location.
The ocean should be avoided as it can be unpredictable and dangerous due to the limited visibility, strong currents and waves.
Choose a bay, lake, slow-flowing river, or harbor as your SUP destination. These locations may have restricted hours, so check beforehand if you can paddle there.
Check the Weather
It is important to check the weather before going outside, as it could save you time.
Paddling in strong winds or stormy weather is dangerous, so if you had known beforehand you wouldn’t have gone to that location. It’s a good idea to check the local weather forecast and make a decision based on that information.
Plan Your Route
Plot a course and figure out how long it will take you to paddle it. Since you’ll be paddling alone at night, it’s a good idea to tell someone else about your route and when you’ll be back. That way, if something happens, they’ll know where to look for you.
Take a Tour
If you’re new to nighttime SUPing, going with a local tour company can be a great way to get started.
Tours are great because they provide all the necessary equipment, as well as skilled tour guides who can help you out in an emergency.
Things to Take With You
Paddling with a friend is not only fun, but also much safer than going out alone. If something unsafe happens, your friend can help you and get you back to safety.
Bug Spray
If bugs and mosquitos are common in your location, pack a can of bug spray to prevent bites.
Headlamps
Some people find wearing headlamps uncomfortable and prefer a light that is mounted to their board. However, a headlamp gives you an extra light source that points in the same direction as your eyes.
If you love nature, you can use a headlamp to see wildlife around you in the direction you want to look. If you only use a mounted light, you will have to paddle and turn yourself to see different things, which can be tiring and annoying for some people.
Lights
A paddle board is a vessel, so it is a legal requirement to have lights on your SUP with you.
Many paddlers enjoy having underwater LED lighting that attaches to the bottom of their board. These lights help them navigate through the water and spot underwater obstacles. The lights also give the board a colored glow, which many people find aesthetically pleasing.
Instead of using a flashlight, you can attach a light to an action mount. Both the Suptig Diving Light and the GoPro – Light Mod are great examples of lights that will brighten your way and help you see in the dark.
Food and Water
No matter what time of day you go paddling, you should always bring food and water with you. Something could happen during your trip and being without food or water could be dangerous.
Whistle
A Whistle is a vital bit of kit you should take on every SUP outing. They help attract the attention of passersby and having these proper safety measure in place can assist you in grave situations.
Types of Clothing to Wear
You’ll also want to consider the temperature and whether you will get wet while paddling. There are a few things to think about when deciding what to wear at night when stand up paddleboarding. As bugs come out at night, it is best to wear clothing that covers most of your skin to prevent bug bites.
You’ll also want to consider the temperature and whether you will get wet while paddling when deciding what to wear.
In an emergency, reflective and bright clothing can easily be seen by others at night because there is minimal lighting and limited visibility.
What you wear will also be affected by the time of year. If you’re bold enough to go out in the autumn or winter, a wetsuit or drysuit would be your best bet, along with warm clothing.
PFD
It is against the law to not wear a personal floatation device when you’re out on the water, which is especially important at night.
A personal flotation device is a very important piece of safety equipment that could potentially save your life in an emergency situation.
A PFD should be the right fit and regularly checked for damage.
