Discover the Private Floating Paddle Lesson and Photo Session in Virginia Beach
If you’re visiting Virginia Beach and looking for a unique way to enjoy the water while snagging some memorable photos, this private paddleboard experience might just be what you need. With a focus on getting you the best shots and learning the basics of paddleboarding, it’s a relaxed and fun activity, especially if you’re into water adventures or want some cool vacation snaps.
What really stands out is the personalized coaching and the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles — yes, eagles! — right from the water. Plus, the boards and gear are brand new and high-quality, which makes a difference when you’re just starting out. The experience also has a high praise rating of 5.0 from four reviews, so a lot of folks have found it worthwhile.
One thing to keep in mind is that this activity takes place in the protected backwaters of Rudee Inlet, so if you’re looking for ocean waves, this might not be the activity for you. Also, it’s more suited for those over 10 years old; kids under 10 can ride for free but only on the instructor’s board. This is a fairly simple activity, but if you’re nervous about balancing or standing, you can always sit and paddle along — which is a plus for less confident paddlers.
This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups wanting a laid-back, photo-friendly water adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy Virginia Beach from a new perspective, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Personalized experience with a private guide ensures individual attention and tailored coaching.
- High-quality equipment including new boards and carbon fiber paddles makes the activity more enjoyable.
- Great for photos, with the guide helping you capture some truly memorable shots of your trip.
- Wildlife sightings and eagle nests add a special touch to the experience.
- Flexible options: sit or stand on the board, and bring beverages to enjoy during the paddle.
- Family-friendly for children under 10 (they ride for free), but older kids and adults will get the most out of the activity.
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What to Expect from This Paddle Session
The Meeting Point
The adventure begins right at Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle, located at 300 Winston Salem Ave, Virginia Beach. This spot is accessible and close to public transportation, making it convenient to reach. From there, it’s a short walk to the dock where you’ll meet your guide, Randy.
The Setup
Randy kicks things off with a quick coaching session on the dock. If you’re new to paddleboarding, don’t worry — he’ll teach you the basics of paddling and balancing, and most people will get the hang of it pretty quickly. The focus is on having fun and feeling comfortable on the water.
The Paddle
Once you’re ready, you’ll set off into the protected backwaters of Rudee Inlet. This calm water area is perfect for beginners, with no ocean waves or currents to worry about. Along the way, you’ll likely see some local wildlife, including the possibility of spotting bald eagles nesting nearby — an experience many reviews highlight as a memorable bonus.
Photography Time
The real star of this experience is the photo session. As you paddle along, your guide will help you pose for pictures, capturing the fun and making sure you get those perfect vacation shots. Whether you want photos of just you, your family, or friends, the guide’s encouragement and tips will help you look your best.
Optional Yoga or Sitting
If standing isn’t your thing or you just want a more relaxed experience, you can sit on the board and paddle at your own pace. Many guests find that by the end of the session, they’re trying yoga poses or standing for photos, but there’s no pressure.
Duration and Group Size
The whole activity lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to learn, paddle, and take photos without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, which means personalized attention from your guide.
What’s Included and What It Costs
For $75 per person, you get access to brand new, gorgeous paddleboards and carbon fiber paddles, along with life jackets and guidance. The guide provides encouragement, tips, and photography help throughout the session. You’re also free to ask about bringing beverages — Randy mentions you can bring a cooler or backpack with drinks, making it a fun, relaxed outing.
The price reflects the personalized nature of the experience — private, with high-quality gear, and a knowledgeable guide. Compared to larger group tours, this private session offers a more relaxed atmosphere and tailored experience, especially valuable if you’re after good photos and a calm paddle on the water.
The Experience of the Water and Wildlife
Guests consistently mention the stunning views and the opportunity to see local wildlife. The protected backwaters are quiet and perfect for snapping photos, and eagle nests in the area add a “wow” factor. One reviewer noted that the guide is phenomenal, creating a comfortable environment for first-timers and even encouraging yoga poses for some fun photos.
The calm waters are ideal for beginners, and the focus on photography makes this experience different from standard paddleboarding lessons. The guide’s tips help you make the most of your time on the water, whether you’re paddleboarding for the first time or just want some great vacation pics.
The Reviews Say It All
All four reviews give a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing how memorable and fun this experience is. Guests have described it as “amazing,” highlighting the friendly guidance and the ability to capture fun photos. The reviews also mention how Randy made everyone feel comfortable, even those who had no previous paddleboarding experience.
One reviewer, who’s lived in Virginia Beach for 30 years, said that it helped make their family reunion “even more memorable,” which speaks to how versatile and inclusive this activity can be.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This paddleboard session is great for first-timers, families with kids over 10, and anyone wanting some relaxed water fun with a focus on photos. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an activity that combines a bit of exercise with the chance to capture gorgeous pictures. If you want an active adventure on the ocean with waves, this probably isn’t the right choice. But if you prefer calm waters and a more personal, laid-back experience, you’ll love it.
The Sum Up
For travelers seeking a personalized, scenic water activity that’s as much about photos as it is about paddling, this private paddle lesson in Virginia Beach hits the mark. The calm, protected waters of Rudee Inlet provide a perfect backdrop for wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for capturing those vacation memories.
The high-quality gear, the knowledgeable guide, and the focus on photos make this experience stand out, especially given the consistently glowing reviews. It’s a fun, relaxed way to enjoy Virginia Beach’s water without the hassle of ocean waves or large crowds.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo and want a mix of light exercise and stunning photos, this tour offers great value for the personalized experience. Plus, the chance to spot eagles and other wildlife adds that special touch many travelers remember long after the trip.
This paddleboard and photo session will appeal most to those who love water activities, photography, and a relaxed pace — it’s a wonderful way to make your trip to Virginia Beach even more memorable.
Private Floating Paddle Lesson and Photo Session
“Amazing experience, whether or not youre a tourist or a local looking for something fun and unique to do by the Oceanfront :-)”
FAQ
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide provides coaching on the dock, and the protected waters are perfect for first-timers. Most guests get comfortable quickly.
Can kids participate?
Kids under 10 ride on the instructor’s board for free, but the activity is best suited for children over 10. The experience is geared more towards adults and older kids.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. You might want to wear a swimsuit underneath and bring sun protection like sunglasses and sunscreen.
Can I bring drinks?
Yes, you can ask Randy about bringing beverages in a cooler or backpack, perfect for making the experience more fun and relaxed.
What if the weather is bad?
Good weather is required, and if conditions are poor, the activity will be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long does the experience last?
Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes total, including coaching, paddling, and photo sessions.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Where do we meet?
At Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle, located at 300 Winston Salem Ave, Virginia Beach — close to public transportation.
What makes this experience special?
The combination of wildlife sightings, personalized coaching, high-quality equipment, and the opportunity to take professional-looking photos makes it stand out.
Is this good value for the money?
Considering the private setting, quality gear, and focus on photos, many find it to be excellent value, especially for a memorable activity in Virginia Beach.
This paddle lesson and photo session offers a relaxed, friendly, and visually rewarding way to enjoy Virginia Beach’s waters. Whether you’re after great pictures, a gentle introduction to paddleboarding, or just some quiet time on the water, it’s worth considering for your trip.