Guided stand up paddle (SUP) lesson and tour

Exploring Halkidiki on a Stand Up Paddleboard: A Friendly Guide

If you’re considering a way to enjoy Halkidiki’s gorgeous coastline beyond just lounging on the beach, a guided stand-up paddle (SUP) tour might be worth your attention. While we haven’t personally paddled here, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a gentle, scenic experience perfect for beginners or those who love a relaxed water adventure.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its small-group vibe—with a maximum of 6 people, it promises personalized attention and a more intimate connection with the surroundings. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference, helping everyone feel comfortable whether they’ve paddled before or not.

On the downside, the tour’s duration is just about 2 hours, so if you’re craving a full day out on the water, this might feel a bit quick. But for a taste of Halkidiki’s beautiful beaches and a fun introduction to SUP, it strikes us as a practical, enjoyable choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a laid-back, guided introduction to paddleboarding, with an emphasis on enjoying the scenery and learning some skills, all at a reasonable price. It’s especially attractive if you’re traveling in a small group or with friends and prefer a more personal touch.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: The lesson includes an introduction to SUP, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried it before.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 6 travelers, expect personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Beautiful setting: Starts at the stunning Mikro Karydi beach, with a stop at the scenic Aphrodite beach.
• Value for money: At around $39, it offers a guided water experience with a short course, scenic stops, and a surprise gift.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.
• Weather-dependent: The activity is weather-sensitive, with the potential for cancellation or rescheduling if conditions aren’t suitable.

The Tour Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Mikro Karydi Beach

The adventure begins at the lovely Mikro Karydi beach, which is often praised for its beauty. As the meeting point, it’s a great place to soak in the views and get ready for your SUP experience. The tour provider notes that it’s near public transportation, so if you’re staying nearby, logistics shouldn’t be complicated.

Upon arrival, the staff prepares the SUP gear and provides a quick briefing on safety and usage. This initial introduction is crucial because it sets the tone for the rest of the experience—relaxed, informative, and friendly. A reviewer mentioned that although the owner was initially absent, a quick call resulted in the SUPs being brought over, and they were given an extra 30 minutes free of charge. That kind of flexibility and good customer service speaks to the tour’s commitment to a positive experience.

The 45-Minute Water Course

After familiarizing yourself with the paddleboards and learning the basics, you’ll hit the water for about 45 minutes of paddling within the calm bay. This is perfect for beginners—it’s a controlled environment where you can practice your strokes and get comfortable on the board.

The water is described as tranquil, allowing for a relaxed, enjoyable lesson. The guides are noted to be approachable and knowledgeable, helping each participant improve their technique and feel confident. One reviewer specifically appreciated the personalized coaching because their small group size meant they received individual attention, making the lesson engaging and tailored.

Scenic Stop at Aphrodite Beach

Once you’re comfortable paddling, the group heads to a nearby beach called Aphrodite, which is described as a “wonderful neighboring beach.” Here, you’ll take a short break—an excellent chance to hydrate, snack on fruit, and enjoy the views from the water.

The stop provides a well-deserved rest and a chance to soak in the scenery. The calm waters and picturesque surroundings make it a memorable pause. According to reviews, this beach is a highlight, adding a touch of tranquility and beauty to the trip.

Return to Mikro Karydi and a Surprise Gift

After your break, you’ll paddle back to the starting point, completing your roughly two-hour adventure. The tour wraps up with a small surprise gift, which adds a thoughtful, personable touch that many travelers appreciate.

Overall Vibe and Value

From the reviews, it’s clear that this SUP tour is appreciated for its friendly guides, scenic setting, and manageable pace. The price point is reasonable, considering it includes equipment, instruction, a scenic stop, and the small-group environment. Plus, the free cancellation policy adds flexibility—important for uncertain weather or changing plans.

Additional Practical Details

• Location: Starts at Mikro Karydi beach, a well-loved spot in Halkidiki, known for its natural beauty.
• Duration: About 2 hours, making it a good half-day activity—short enough not to tire you out but long enough to enjoy paddling and scenery.
• Group Size: Limited to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Price: Around $39.36 per person, which is quite fair considering the guided instruction and scenic experience.
• Booking: On average, booked about 8 days in advance, so it’s good to plan ahead.
• Weather: The activity is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a beginner or someone looking for a gentle introduction to SUP in a stunning setting, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for travelers who want to sample Halkidiki’s water and scenery without committing to a full-day adventure. Small groups and friendly guides ensure a comfortable, laid-back experience.

Those traveling with friends or a partner who enjoy light outdoor activities will find this a charming addition to their trip. It’s less suited for those seeking high-adrenaline water sports or a longer, more intense paddling session. If weather is bad, be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
You get all the necessary SUP equipment, a guided lesson, and access to scenic stops. The price also includes the admission ticket to Mikro Karydi beach.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour starts with an introduction to SUP and takes place in a calm bay, making it ideal for those new to paddleboarding.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including instruction, paddling, and the stop at Aphrodite beach.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, which is helpful if the weather looks unfavorable.

What should I bring?
While not explicitly stated, bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is advisable. The tour provides the paddleboards and safety gear.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically mentioned, the focus on beginner instruction and calm waters suggest it’s suitable for most ages, provided participants have moderate physical fitness.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
The activity is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Mikro Karydi beach, making logistics straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This guided SUP tour in Halkidiki offers a peaceful, scenic way to explore the coastline, especially if you’re new to paddleboarding. The small group setting and friendly guides make it feel relaxed and personalized, while the beautiful beaches and calm waters promise a pleasant outing. For just under $40, it provides a practical, enjoyable way to connect with the sea and learn a new skill in one of Greece’s most picturesque areas.

If you’re after a gentle adventure that combines scenic beauty, light activity, and some expert guidance, this SUP tour might just be what you’re looking for. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather and book ahead to secure your spot in this small, friendly group.