Paddle Annapolis: A Guided SUP Glide Through Spa Creek and the Severn
Glide past the Naval Academy, slip into Spa Creek’s calm, and see Annapolis from water level—gear and guidance included.
Morning slips into Annapolis like a tide—quiet at first, then full of motion. From a small dock in Eastport, boards nose the water and the creek blinks awake: ospreys trade calls from their nesting towers, rigging on moored sailboats ticks in the breeze, and the copper dome of the Naval Academy catches the first light as if signaling go. You push off and Spa Creek receives you with a cool shiver. The paddle blade bites, the board hums, and the city’s maritime heartbeat syncs to your cadence.
Trail Wisdom
Read wind and tide before you launch
Ask your guide how the day’s wind direction and tide will shape the route—Spa Creek stays calmer when the Severn gets choppy.
Master the kneel-to-stand progression
Start on your knees to find balance, then stand when the water feels smooth; soft knees and eyes on the horizon keep you stable.
Aim your board into wakes
When boat wakes roll through, turn slightly into them and keep paddling—momentum adds stability.
Mind the bridge and no‑wake zones
Stay outside the main channel near the Spa Creek drawbridge and respect no‑wake areas for safety and courtesy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Horn Point breakwater for panoramic harbor views
- •Back Creek Nature Park’s quiet coves
Wildlife
Osprey, Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Annapolis sits on the Chesapeake Bay, a sensitive estuary. Avoid paddling through submerged aquatic vegetation, keep a respectful distance from nesting birds, and pack out all trash.
Annapolis’s maritime roots run deep—from colonial shipyards to the U.S. Naval Academy, established in 1845 on the site of Fort Severn.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildlife sightings, Calm, cool mornings
Challenges: Cold water temps, Changeable winds
Ospreys return and creeks quiet down. Wear layers and expect crisp air with potentially chilly water.
summer
Best for: Warm water paddling, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Boat traffic, Afternoon thunderstorms
Classic Annapolis conditions with lively marinas and warm temps; book morning sessions for calmer water.
fall
Best for: Mild weather, Colorful shoreline
Challenges: Shorter days, Occasional northerly blows
Lower humidity and golden light make for photogenic tours; check wind forecasts and bring a light layer.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Very cold water, Limited tour availability
Only for the properly outfitted and when conditions allow; most tours emphasize fair-weather months.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Quick-dry clothing or swimwearEssential
Non-cotton layers keep you comfortable if you get splashed or take a quick dip.
Reef-safe sunscreen and brimmed hatEssential
Protects skin from intense reflected sun off the water without harming the Bay’s ecosystems.
Reusable water bottle with leashEssential
Staying hydrated is key; a tether prevents accidental drops into the creek.
Waterproof phone case with lanyard
Keeps your phone safe for on-water photos and emergency calls.
Common Questions
Do I need prior paddle boarding experience?
No. Guides provide a brief lesson on stance, balance, and basic strokes before launching and will coach you throughout the tour.
What if it’s windy or there’s a chance of storms?
Routes are adjusted for wind and current, and tours may be rescheduled or canceled if thunderstorms are likely. Safety takes priority.
Is there a weight or age limit?
Most boards accommodate paddlers up to roughly 250–300 lb; check with the operator for specifics. Youth can participate with an adult; age minimums vary by provider.
What should I wear and will I get wet?
Expect light splashes. Wear quick-dry clothing or swimwear and bring a change of clothes for after the tour.
Are life jackets required?
Yes. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation devices are provided and required for all participants.
Where do we meet and is parking available?
Launch is from Eastport near 326 First St in Annapolis. Street parking is limited—arrive early or use a rideshare during busy summer weekends.
What to Pack
Quick-dry layers to stay comfortable after splashes; Reef-safe sunscreen and a brimmed hat for sun protection on reflective water; 1L of water in a bottle with a tether to stay hydrated and secure; Waterproof phone case with lanyard for photos and emergency contact.
Did You Know
The U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis was established in 1845 on the site of Fort Severn and remains one of the most selective service academies in the United States.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15–20 minutes early to park, sign waivers, and size your gear; Book morning sessions for lighter winds and smoother water; Check the wind forecast—10–15 knots on the Severn can feel sporty for beginners; Bring a small towel and dry change of clothes for after the paddle.
Local Flavor
Refuel at Boatyard Bar & Grill in Eastport for a crab cake and a local ale; sip small‑batch pours at Forward Brewing; or cross the bridge for a dozen oysters at McGarvey’s Saloon. Stroll the Annapolis Maritime Museum to connect the dots between the Bay, the watermen, and the meal on your plate.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: BWI (approx. 25 miles/40 minutes). Launch: 326 First St, Eastport (Annapolis). 5 minutes by car from downtown. Street parking is limited in summer. Cell service is generally strong on Spa Creek and the inner Severn. No permits required for casual paddling, but PFDs are mandatory and tours may be weather-dependent.
Sustainability Note
This is Chesapeake Bay nursery water—avoid trampling or paddling directly over eelgrass beds, use reef-safe sunscreen, and give nesting ospreys a wide berth. Pack out all trash and rinse gear to prevent the spread of aquatic invasives.
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