Stand up paddle surfing (SUP), or in the Hawaiian language Hoe he’e nalu, is an emerging global sport with a Hawaiian heritage. It is an ancient form of surfing that allows for a great view on the incoming sets of waves and makes catching a wave easy.

A SUP board generally is between 9 and 12 feet or more in length, with features such as padded decks and concave hulls; The “rider” stands on top and propels him/herself with a paddle. Finding and keeping your balance on a SUP board are not trivial, but once you reach that point, the rewards are great!

SUP is a great way to leisurely explore the coastal waters around the Big Island. Look down at the colorful fish and corals, or look back at the tropical shoreline. Close your eyes and enjoy the breeze.

Renting a SUP board on the Big Island

If you want to rent a SUP board on the Big Island, your choices are still somewhat limited. There are a few surf shops on the island that also rent SUP boards, and that can provide you with lessons and instruction.

In Hilo,  Hilo Bay Paddler is owned and operated by a local paddler. They offer SUP rentals for $30 / session ( 1-2 hours). This includes transport of SUP to Hilo Bay and lessons in small groups of up to 4. You can find them at 12 Furneaux Lane at Bayfront, or reach them bij phone at (808) 935-0527

In Kona, KonaBoys.com are your best choice for SUP rentals.

SUP Video from Amsterdam

If you think about Amsterdam, Stand Up Paddling probably won’t enter your mind. Yet in the spring of 2011 the Amsterdam canals were invaded by gorgeous girls in bikini on SUP boards as part of an O’Neill promotional campaign.

Have a look at what SUP boarding in Amsterdam looks like, and picture yourself afterwards taking in the Big Island coast from your own SUP board.