Paddle Board Destinations in New Hampshire: Lakes, Rivers & Coastal Charm
New Hampshire may be compact in size, but it’s overflowing with paddle boarding opportunities. From the iconic Lakes Region to the rugged White Mountains and the salty Atlantic coast, the Granite State offers a diverse range of SUP experiences. Whether you're gliding across serene waters or navigating thrilling whitewater, New Hampshire’s natural beauty and variety make it a must-paddle destination.
Lake Winnipesaukee
- Location: Lakes Region, New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Weirs Beach, Alton Bay, Meredith Town Docks
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals, restaurants
- Best Season: Summer to early Fall
Description: New Hampshire’s largest lake offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains and forests. Ideal for long-distance paddling, island hopping, and sunset sessions.
Squam Lake
- Location: Lakes Region, New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, public boat ramps
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals nearby
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Famous for its role in “On Golden Pond,” Squam Lake is a peaceful retreat with hidden coves, wildlife, and calm waters perfect for beginners and nature lovers.
Lake Sunapee
- Location: Sunapee Region, New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Sunapee Harbor, Mount Sunapee State Park
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals, lodging
- Best Season: Summer
Description: A scenic lake surrounded by rolling hills and charming towns. Paddle through calm waters and enjoy vibrant sunsets over the mountains.
Umbagog Lake
- Location: Northern New Hampshire / Maine border
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Umbagog Lake State Park
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, campgrounds
- Best Season: Summer
Description: A remote wilderness lake perfect for adventurous paddlers. Explore secluded inlets and paddle along pristine shores teeming with wildlife.
Connecticut River
- Location: Western New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Hanover, Lebanon, Cornish Boat Ramp
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: A gentle river with scenic banks and diverse wildlife. Ideal for relaxed paddling and multi-mile excursions.
Androscoggin River
- Location: Northern New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: River (Whitewater)
- Launch Points: Errol, Milan, Berlin
- Amenities: Parking, outfitters, restrooms
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Thrilling whitewater sections for experienced paddlers. Navigate Class I–III rapids surrounded by rugged wilderness and mountain views.
New Hampshire Seacoast
- Location: Southeastern New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Ocean
- Launch Points: Rye Harbor State Park, Wallis Sands, Jenness Beach
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Paddle along the Atlantic coast with salty breezes and crashing waves. Great for ocean paddling and coastal exploration.
White Lake
- Location: Tamworth, New Hampshire
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: White Lake State Park
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas
- Best Season: Summer
Description: A sheltered lake near the coast with gentle swells and calm waters. Feels like paddling in a safe harbor—perfect for SUP yoga and family outings.
Summary of Paddle Board Locations in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a rich variety of paddle board destinations. Beginners can enjoy calm lakes like Squam and White Lake, while intermediate paddlers will love the scenic beauty of Lake Sunapee and the Connecticut River. Advanced adventurers can tackle the whitewater of the Androscoggin or explore the Atlantic coast. With launch points across lakes, rivers, and oceanfronts, New Hampshire is a compact but mighty paddle boarding paradise.