Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are perennially popular watersports in Rhode Island, so we recommend exploring the state’s sandy shoreline, salt ponds, and tidal rivers from a different angle. From Block Island to Wickford, businesses offer surf, boogie, and SUP rentals and lessons for all abilities and ages. Read on for our list of ocean-minded spots ready to help you ride the waves.
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.
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.
Find surf, boogie, SUP boards, beach chairs, and umbrellas, or sign up for a private or group lesson.
Celebrating the cold water and chill culture of Rhode Island surfing, this Wakefield surf shop offers everything from board rentals to lessons to gear.
Located at Ram Point Marina, this is one of the state’s premier SUP rentals. While they aren’t offering hourly rentals this year, they have grab-and-go options at a reduced price so you can paddle the beautiful Point Judith River.
The friendly staff will deliver SUP boards to the beach near Spinnaker’s Ice Cream shop. Daily or long-term rentals are available.
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.
Across from the Ocean Mist, this little store shares a parking lot with Matunuck Pizza Pie Co. and offers surf and SUP board rentals.
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!
The Narrow River’s calm and peaceful waters make this a great spot for beginners to rent SUP boards, and ACA-certified staff offer private lessons or introductory classes. Advanced paddlers can rent a touring paddle board to explore the local estuarine environment.
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.
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.
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.
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