Stand Up Paddle boarding, aka SUP, is a popular hobby here in Guam. It’s great because it’s good for beginners and people of all ages, as well as those who maybe more skillful and confident. I’ll share some ways to get the most out of your SUP experience and some great times to go check it out.
There are two main places to rent paddle boards here in Guam. One is called Surf and Work and it’s a bit more expensive but they have a great shop and lots of boards so you can go with a big group. The normal rate for board rental is $45 for two hours. They do also offer lessons which is great if your looking for something along those lines!
It’s located on East Hagatna beach. I like the beach for SUP because there’s lots of fish, blue starfish, and you’re not confined to a certain area. However this beach does have much more coral so if you fall off you have an easier chance of getting cut. Swim shoes are a good idea here.
SUP at East Hagatna Beach
If you go with the SUP Girls Guam group you get a discount, and it’s $35 for 2 hours. You can find them on Facebook page and they often have Sunrise paddle boarding sessions. A short mini lesson on how to paddle board for those who have never done it before will be given. It was more than enough to get my friends and I up and on the boards successfully!
They also have a few people checking on the paddle borders and offering assistance and tips as needed. I’ve done a sunrise paddle boarding event with them and it was beautiful watching the sun come up although it was a little bit early for me so I probably won’t do that one again. Private group sessions for a sunset paddle boarding and more can also be arranged as well through them, which is more my style.
The other is called the SUP Shack Guam down on Matapang beach, and they have fantastic rates for locals and military ID holders. Note they do take a picture of your ID so make sure you have a drivers license on hand because you’re not allowed to let them take a picture of your military ID. It’s $10 for two hours with the local/military rate. You do also have to pay in advance to reserve the boards.
Matapang beach I found to be less interesting as I’ve never seen any blue starfish while doing stop there however it also has less coral in case you do fall off. So it may be good if you’re taking kids with you. You are also confined to a smaller area where you can paddle board and you have to stay closer into the shore which is often frustrating and annoying if you’re fighting the current that keeps pushing you out further. There is the bonus of a swing on the beach a short walk down to the right.
Paddle boards can also be rented from the Outdoor Rec on Naval Base Guam. It’s $20 for the day, they have an hourly rate too but it was a better deal for us to do the daily rental. A vehicle is needed transport them and I’ve had a great place to take them is over at Dadi beach. We use them at Gab Gab for a function, however the water was choppy and it was harder getting them in and out of the water over in that area.
I found paddle boarding to be super easy and everyone in our group of beginners was able to easily stand up the first attempt. You can also paddle on your knees or sitting if your unable to stand or want to take a break. It’s a great arm workout especially when your having to paddle back against the current.
SUP is a fun & easy hobby to check out while you are living in or visiting Guam. Sunrise & Sunset are my favorite times for the changing skyline & cooler temps. I’ve also gone during the day & it was much hotter!
Thank you, great write up 👍