Stand Up Paddle school – learn to SUP and make your first SUP tour

If you’re planning a trip to Hvar and considering trying out stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for the first time, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve looked into a popular SUP school that promises a friendly, beginner-focused introduction to this fantastic water sport. So, whether you’re after a gentle way to explore the coastline or just want to tick paddleboarding off your bucket list, this experience might be just what you need.

What stands out for us about this tour? First, the experienced instructors make learning straightforward and enjoyable—something that really helps when you’re new to standing on a board. Second, the location itself is ideal for beginners, as it’s situated in a calm, protected bay, minimizing the worry about waves or wind.

Of course, no activity is perfect for everyone. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite short, typically lasting between 1 to 3 hours, which is ideal for a quick intro but might not satisfy those looking for a full-day adventure. Still, if you’re after a light, easy-going experience with a chance to develop a new skill, this is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxing, low-stakes activity that offers plenty of guidance and equipment.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners and those new to paddleboarding
• Professional, friendly instructors provide clear guidance
• Location in a protected bay lends itself to easy learning
• Includes all necessary equipment, like dry bags and life jackets
• Price point around $30 offers good value for a memorable activity
• Duration allows for flexibility, from an hour up to three hours

What is the SUP School Experience in Hvar?

This paddleboarding experience is designed with beginners in mind. It’s hosted by Kayak & SUP Hvar, a company that offers a straightforward, no-fuss introduction to SUP. The goal? Help you get comfortable on the water, learn the basics of balance and paddling, and give you a taste of exploring Hvar’s coast from a unique perspective.

The activity kicks off with a short land-based introduction lasting about 15-20 minutes. During this time, your instructor explains how to stand on the board, how to keep your balance, and how to paddle effectively. This initial step is crucial since most people, even those who have never been on a board before, find it surprisingly easy to pick up the basics.

After the land session, you’ll head into the water with all the equipment provided, including a large buoyant, stable paddleboard, an adjustable paddle, a life jacket (optional for good swimmers), and a dry bag for your belongings. The location—Bonj beach in Hvar—is an ideal spot for beginners because it’s a protected bay, shielded from wind and wave action, making it easier to focus on your balancing skills without the worry of rough water.

What Makes the Location Special?

The choice of Bonj beach is smart. It’s a calm, shallow bay, perfect for those just starting out. The quiet waters mean you can concentrate on your stance and paddling without battling waves or strong currents. Plus, the scenic surroundings of Hvar’s coast offer fantastic views that you’ll want to snap photos of once you’re comfortable on your board.

The instructors take you on a gentle tour along the coast, exploring hidden bays and shoreline spots that might be challenging to access by foot or boat. This makes the activity not just about learning but also about enjoying the scenery in a relaxed, peaceful manner.

The Instruction and Group Size

Reviews highlight the quality of the guides—both Marco and Josko are mentioned as patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. It’s clear that the instructors prioritize making beginners feel comfortable, which is so important when trying out a new sport. They’re also flexible, with some reviews noting how much participants appreciated the company and expertise of their guides.

The group sizes are generally small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. In the reviews, one mentions having three days with Josko, which suggests a potential for consistent, friendly guidance over multiple sessions if you decide to come back.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The price, approximately $29.83 per person, balances affordability and value. Included are all the essentials: an experienced instructor, a paddleboard and adjustable paddle, a life jacket, and a dry bag for personal items. There’s also accident insurance, which adds some peace of mind. The tour offers free storage for your belongings if you don’t want to carry them on the water.

What’s not included? Tips for the guide, food, or drinks—so plan to bring some water or snacks if you’re planning to stay longer or want a picnic afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour starts at the Kayak & SUP Hvar location on Bonj beach, with everyone gathering for the briefing. After the land instruction, you’ll head into the water, paddling along the coast. The experience is flexible—anywhere from a quick hour to a more relaxed three hours, depending on your preference and stamina.

The main stop is the protected bay, where you can practice your balancing skills and paddle around. In one review, a group enjoyed three days with a guide, which hints that the location and instruction are suitable for multiple sessions, should you want to improve or simply enjoy more time on the water.

Because the activity ends back at the starting point, it’s easy to plan your day around it—whether you want to continue exploring Hvar or relax on the beach afterward.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

One reviewer raved about their experience with Marco, describing him as “an excellent instructor—patient, friendly, and knowledgeable.” They appreciated the hour-long instruction followed by a paddle around the bay, which allowed them to enjoy the scenery and develop their skills without pressure.

Another shared that Josko was a “phenomenal instructor and great company,” emphasizing how much fun they had during the three days they spent paddling and exploring. This indicates the experience can be both educational and enjoyable, especially with guides who genuinely know their stuff.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price and what’s included, this SUP lesson offers good value, especially for travelers eager to try something new without a huge commitment. The small group size and personalized instruction ensure you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels.

Since paddleboarding is an easy sport to learn, many beginners find they can stand and paddle confidently within minutes. The calm surroundings of the bay further boost your chances of a successful, enjoyable first experience.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, beginner-friendly activity that combines learning, scenery, and gentle exercise. It’s great for those who want a quick introduction to paddleboarding without a long or physically demanding commitment. If you enjoy calm waters, scenic coastlines, and guided instruction, you’ll probably love this.

While it’s not designed as an adrenaline-filled adventure, it’s an excellent choice for anyone interested in trying a water sport in a supportive environment. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who want to develop a new skill in a beautiful setting will find this especially appealing.

If you’re after a laid-back, educational paddleboarding experience in Hvar, this tour offers a lot of what you need—affordable price, expert guides, and a peaceful venue to start your SUP journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this SUP experience suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for beginners, with a short land-based instruction to help you get comfortable on the board.

How long does the activity last?
Typically between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your preference and stamina. You can choose a shorter or longer session.

Are all the necessary pieces of equipment provided?
Yes, everything you need—paddleboards, paddles, life jackets (optional for good swimmers), dry bags, and accident insurance—is included.

What is the location like?
The activity takes place in a protected bay on Bonj beach, ideal for learning due to its calm waters and scenic surroundings.

Can I bring my belongings with me on the water?
Yes, you’ll have access to a dry bag where you can store your valuables safely during the paddle.

Is there a minimum age or physical requirement?
While not explicitly stated, the activity is suitable for all ages, especially given the gentle, beginner-friendly setting.

What do I need to bring?
A hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Everything else, including sun protection if needed, is provided.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, with full refunds.

Who are the guides?
Experienced and friendly instructors, like Marco and Josko, are highlighted for their patience and knowledge.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a low-pressure way to learn paddleboarding in a stunning location, this Hvar SUP experience deserves your consideration. It offers excellent value, friendly guidance, and a chance to see part of Hvar’s coast from a fresh perspective. While it’s a brief intro rather than an all-day adventure, that’s often exactly what makes it appealing—especially if you want a taste of water sports without overcommitting.

Ideal for beginners, small groups, and travelers who enjoy scenic, calm waters, this tour provides both a skill-building opportunity and a relaxing break during your Hvar stay. So, if the idea of gliding over the water and discovering hidden bays appeals to you, you’ll likely find this an enjoyable, worthwhile activity.

Ready to try paddleboarding? Pack a hat and sunscreen, and prepare to enjoy some gentle waters and friendly guides. Just remember, even if you have no previous experience, you’re in good hands with the instructors here—they’re dedicated to making your first SUP experience safe, fun, and memorable.