Paddle Board Destinations in North Carolina: From Smoky Mountains to Coastal Swells
North Carolina is a hidden gem for paddle boarders. From the tranquil lakes of the Smoky Mountains to the wild Atlantic surf of the Outer Banks, the Tar Heel State offers a diverse range of SUP experiences. Whether you're into flatwater cruising, whitewater thrills, or SUP surfing, North Carolina delivers adventure without the crowds. Let’s explore some of the most scenic and exciting paddle board locations across the state.
Fontana Lake
- Location: Western North Carolina
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Near Fontana Dam, western shoreline access
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals (Smoky SUP)
- Best Season: Summer to early Fall
Description: A serene lake with crystal-clear waters and minimal boat traffic. Surrounded by mountains and rich history, it’s perfect for exploring hidden coves and enjoying peaceful solitude.
Roanoke River
- Location: Northeastern North Carolina
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Multiple access points along the river corridor
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, camping platforms, rentals (Mountain 2 Island Paddleboard Company)
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: Paddle through ancient forests and rich ecosystems. The river winds through bottomland hardwoods and offers wildlife sightings from black bears to bald cypress groves.
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve
- Location: Outer Banks, North Carolina
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake and marsh
- Launch Points: Kitty Hawk Public Boat Launch (Bob Perry Road)
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals (Kitty Hawk Watersports)
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Paddle under a canopy of live oaks and red maples while spotting otters, herons, and turtles. Explore marshy islands and quiet waters away from the wind and crowds.
U.S. Whitewater Center
- Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: River (Whitewater and flatwater)
- Launch Points: Catawba River and Long Creek access within the center
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals, instruction, events
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: A 1,300-acre outdoor center offering whitewater SUP courses and flatwater paddling. Hosts Tuck Fest and ACA-certified instruction for thrill-seekers and competitors.
Milltail Creek — Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
- Location: Eastern North Carolina
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Creek and marsh
- Launch Points: Refuge paddle trail access points
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, wildlife viewing
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: Paddle through 15 miles of remote trails with chances to see herons, egrets, and even alligators. A wild and immersive experience in the northernmost known gator habitat.
Outer Banks — SUP Surfing
- Location: Corolla to Kill Devil Hills
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: Ocean
- Launch Points: Duck Pier, Kitty Hawk Beach, Carova
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, surf shops
- Best Season: Summer and post-storm swells
Description: The East Coast’s premier SUP surfing destination. Catch waves after storm swells or during the ESA tournament season. Warm waters and consistent surf make this a bucket-list spot.
Summary of Paddle Board Locations in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a rich variety of paddle board destinations. Beginners can enjoy calm waters at Kitty Hawk Woods and Fontana Lake, while intermediate paddlers will love the Roanoke River and Milltail Creek. Advanced adventurers can tackle whitewater at the U.S. Whitewater Center or surf the Atlantic in the Outer Banks. With launch points across lakes, rivers, marshes, and oceanfronts, North Carolina is a paddle boarder’s paradise with unmatched diversity and natural beauty.