Board, Breathe, Be: Paddle-Board Yoga on Little Lagoon
No paddle boarding OR yoga experience required! Beginner friendly!
The morning arrives in a soft wash of honey light as the lagoon peels away from the highway and melts into marshgrass. You carry your board over the damp sand—neither surfboard nor studio mat, but something in between—and step onto a mirror of water that wants both to hold you and test you. A certified instructor calls out gentle cues as palms meet the board and the world narrows to breath, balance, and the hush of gulls. For an hour, it’s just you, the board, and the lagoon; for a lifetime, it becomes a memory of an unexpected stillness on the Alabama coast.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Hydrated
Bring a water bottle and hydrate before class—movement on the water still depletes fluids, and shade is limited at the launch.
Wear Quick-Dry Layers
Light athletic wear that dries fast makes transitions easy if you dip or sweat during practice.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the lagoon’s ecosystem by choosing reef-safe SPF applied before arrival.
Book for Calm Weather
Reserve at least a week out and confirm by 7pm the day before to secure a low-wind slot.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle a short distance to quieter marsh creeks for better birdwatching
- •Walk the Jeff Friend Trail near the launch for intimate coastal views
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Brown pelican
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize no-wake approaches near shorelines and encourage reef-safe sunscreen and carrying out all trash to protect seagrass and juvenile fish habitat.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge was created to preserve coastal habitats and migratory bird corridors, shaping the undeveloped stretches around Little Lagoon.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Migratory bird watching, Calm water paddling
Challenges: Occasional cold snaps, Spring storms
Spring brings comfortable air temperatures and active birdlife; water is typically calm but watch for early-season rain.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Evening classes, Family-friendly outings
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Summer offers warm water ideal for dipping; schedule morning or evening classes to avoid heat and storm windows.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Fewer crowds, Clearer skies
Challenges: Hurricane season tail risks early fall
Fall balances warm days with cooler mornings and fewer tourists—an ideal season for peaceful SUP yoga sessions.
winter
Best for: Off-season solitude, Cool-weather training
Challenges: Chilly mornings, Shorter daylight hours
Winter classes run on milder days; bring extra layers and check instructor schedules since offerings may be limited.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Quick-dry athletic top and shortsEssential
Keeps you comfortable on and off the board and dries quickly after a splash.
Lightweight PFD (provided available but optional to bring)
Good for extra confidence if you prefer added flotation while learning balance.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine environment from harmful chemicals.
Waterproof phone case or small dry bagEssential
Keep valuables safe and capture photos without risking your device.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to paddle board or do yoga before class?
No—classes are designed for beginners; instructors teach basic paddle skills and simple yoga poses suited to the board.
What happens if the weather is too windy or rainy?
Instructors monitor conditions and may reschedule or cancel classes; book early and check confirmation emails for weather updates.
Are boards and paddles provided?
Yes—boards, paddles, and typically life vests are provided by the operator; confirm gear availability when booking.
Can kids or non-swimmers participate?
Kids may join if the operator allows and a guardian signs waivers; non-swimmers should wear a PFD and let the instructor know beforehand.
How should I dress for a class?
Wear quick-drying athletic wear, a hat for before/after class, and bring a towel; avoid heavy cotton that stays wet.
How far in advance should I book?
Reserve at least a week ahead for best availability and no later than 7pm the evening before to confirm a suitable wind day.
What to Pack
Water bottle (hydration), reef-safe sunscreen (skin and environment), quick-dry layers (comfort), waterproof phone case (photos and safety)
Did You Know
Little Lagoon is a shallow, brackish estuary behind a barrier island that serves as a nursery for fish and supports seagrass beds critical to the coastal ecosystem.
Quick Travel Tips
Drive time from Pensacola International Airport ~45–60 minutes; arrive 20 minutes early to check in; expect patchy cell service near the refuge; book at least a week ahead for calm-day availability
Local Flavor
After practice, head to Lulu’s or The Hangout for fresh Gulf shrimp and cold drinks; for a local music scene, check the Flora-Bama on the Alabama-Florida line—iconic live music and sunsets.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pensacola International Airport (PNS); Launch address: 13900 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL; Driving distance from Gulf Shores center: ~10–15 minutes; Cell service: intermittent on refuge; Permits/Reservations: advanced booking required and classes confirm by 7pm the day prior.
Sustainability Note
This activity takes place in sensitive estuarine habitat—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid stepping on seagrass when launching, and pack out all trash to reduce impact.