Yes—dogs must be non-aggressive, comfortable around other dogs and people, and on a flat leash while on land.

Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?

No—this event is beginner friendly with an on-land demo and guided paddle time; private lessons are available if you want extra confidence.

Is there a cost to attend?

This private birthday event is generously hosted by Layla’s family and guests are invited to attend at no additional cost.

What should I do if I arrive late?

All participants must be checked in and ready by the start time; late arrivals may miss instruction and could be unable to join once the group launches.

Are life jackets provided?

SUP Pups can provide waist-style personal flotation devices; bring your own PFD if you prefer a different type.

What happens in poor weather or wind?

The operator may modify, reschedule, or cancel the session for safety based on weather, wind, and water conditions.

Paddle & Paws: Layla's 6th Birthday Splash Bash at Liberty Station | Events | Water Activities

At the north shore of Liberty Station in San Diego, Layla's 6th Birthday Splash Bash is a sunny, low-key paddleboarding party where dogs take center stage. Hosted by SUP Pups at the launch behind the Courtyard Marriott (2592 Laning Rd., San Diego, CA 92106), the event turns calm, no-wake bay waters and a sandy beach into a playful scene of boards, swims, and puppy high-fives.

The format is simple and social: check in at the yellow tent with Instructor Samantha and Crystal, get fitted, run through a brief on-land demo and safety talk, then launch for 90 minutes of guided paddle time. The itinerary is built for fun and accessibility - beginners and seasoned paddlers alike share the water while golden retrievers and other friendly dogs cruise, jump, or paddle beside their owners. A puppachino station and a post-session bonfire round out the celebration, making it feel equal parts community meet-up and backyard party on the bay.

What makes this experience stand out in San Diego’s recreation scene is its specificity: it’s a dog-first SUP session in a protected bay setting. The flat, sheltered water reduces wind chop and makes balancing with a pup more manageable. The shoreline includes sandy launch areas and rocky, oyster-covered sections, so SUP Pups runs land-based safety briefings and designates launch zones to keep dogs and people clear of hazards. The private birthday format - hosted by Layla’s family - also gives the group a relaxed, non-commercial vibe that’s rare in larger rental fleets.

Practical details matter: participants must be 18 or accompanied by a guardian, complete waivers ahead of time, and follow leash rules on land. Dogs must be non-aggressive and comfortable around other animals; no retractable leashes are allowed. SUP Pups provides waist-style personal flotation devices on request and offers private lessons for extra confidence before the event using promo code EVENT.

For photographers and dog lovers, the scene delivers candid joy: sunlit boards, wet fur, and close-up action shots over shallow, clear water. The setting at Liberty Station is also convenient for families, with nearby parking and city services within short walking distance. Weather and bay conditions can change, so the operator reserves the right to modify or cancel for safety. Plan to arrive by 4:30 PM to park, use restrooms, apply sunscreen, and be ready for check-in between 4:30–4:45 PM. The group runs the on-land demo at 4:45–5:00 PM, launches around 5:00–5:15 PM, and paddles until roughly 6:30 PM - ideal daylight for late-afternoon photos and cooler temperatures. Friends and family are welcome to watch, photograph, and cheer aloud.