Catch a Wave: Where to Grab Stand-Up Paddleboards and Surf in Rhody Right Now

Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are fast-growing watersports in Rhode Island, so we recommend you take a day to explore the state’s sandy shoreline, salt ponds, and tidal rivers from a different angle! From Westerly to Lincoln to Block Island, businesses are offering surf, boogie, and SUP rentals and lessons for all abilities and ages. Half-hour to full- and multi-day rental packages include board, paddle, and PFD. Read on to see how you can catch some waves! 

BLOCK ISLAND

Block Island Ocean Adventures – Featuring SUP rentals and instruction to explore the island’s calm salt ponds. Paddle tours of BI Oyster Co. offer an interactive and educational look at local aquaculture. If you are looking for waves, rent a surfboard or schedule a lesson. 

Block Island Fishworks – Basic SUP rentals can be found at this charter fishing agency and tackle shop. Explore Old Harbor on a stable paddleboard or check out a Hobie Pedalboard powered by, as the name suggests, pedaling.

Diamondblue Surf Shop – Find surf, boogie, SUP boards, beach chairs, and umbrellas, or sign up for a private or group lesson. 

EAST GREENWICH

Rhode Island Paddle Sports – A family-oriented company located at Norton’s Marina. RIPS is a great choice for a beginner outing. Choose from a variety of SUP boards and check out their economic one-time-purchase pass for unlimited summer rentals! 

JAMESTOWN

Jamestown Outdoors – The friendly staff will deliver SUP boards to the beach near Spinnaker’s Ice Cream shop. Daily or long-term rentals are available.

MATUNUCK

Matunuck Surf Shop – Across from the Ocean Mist, this little store shares a parking lot with Matunuck Pizza Pie Co. and offers surf and SUP board rentals. 

MIDDLETOWN

Island Surf and Sport – An enormous surf shop with a varied inventory. Rent a board or paddleboard and head over to First or Second Beach for waves, or Third Beach for flatwater. 

NARRAGANSETT

Narragansett Surf and Skate – Tucked away from beach traffic, this shop offers everything: a deep inventory of surf, paddle, and boogie boards for rent or purchase, one-on-one surf and skateboard lessons, and a wide array of gear and clothing. The website offers a live-stream of swells at Town Beach, so you can watch for the perfect break! 

Narrow River Kayaks – The Narrow River’s calm and peaceful waters make this a great spot for beginners to rent SUP boards. Also check out private lessons or introductory classes offered by ACA-certified staff. Advanced paddlers can rent a touring paddle board to explore the local estuarine environment. 

Warm Winds – Located right near the historic Towers, Warm Winds is an institution of Narragansett summers. Book a reservation ahead of time, then visit the energetic surf shop or the tent near the first lifeguard chair on Town Beach. The staff also offers lessons to beginner or advanced surfers.

NEWPORT

Break Water Surf – A local shop on Thames Street. Friendly staff can help with rentals on a wide inventory of new and used boards. 

Mobile Kayaks – This unique mobile delivery service will meet you at the water’s edge with a paddleboard. Dropoff locations include Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth.

Newport Stepboard – Conveniently located on docks at the Freedom Boat Club, you can rent a paddleboard and explore Newport’s historic waterfront. 

PROVIDENCE

Community Boating Center – A community hub at India Point Park. Rent a stable, 11-foot SUP to explore the Bay and enjoy special rates for school programs and groups.

WAKEFIELD

Drift Surf Shop – In a league with Warm Winds and Narragansett Surf & Skate, this surf shop offers everything from board rentals to lessons to gear. Located in downtown Wakefield. 

East Coast Paddle Sports – Located at Ram Point Marina, this is one of the state’s premier SUP rentals. Paddle the beautiful Point Judith River. 

WESTERLY

Paddle Surf RI – This shop is located off the beaten path near historic Watch Hill, at the Frank Hall Boat Yard. It offers a wide selection of rental and lesson packages, personalized to the individual or group. The store also hosts a surf league and camp. 

WICKFORD

The Kayak Centre – Rent a SUP at waterfront locations in Wickford and Charlestown. Call ahead to schedule a lesson or class, or a guided sunset or moonlight tour.