Standup Paddleboarding & Kayaking at Pro SUP Shop in Marina del Rey
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with basic fitness; balance and some upper body strength help but are not mandatory due to calm conditions.
Overview
Discover Pro SUP Shop in Marina del Rey, where calm waters and expert guides make every paddleboard or kayak outing memorable. Friendly service and scenic marina tours await on California’s largest man-made small craft harbor.
Details
Marina del Rey, California, offers one of Southern California’s premier waterfront playgrounds, framed by calm waters and bustling docks. Pro SUP Shop is firmly anchored here, providing visitors a gateway to paddleboarding and kayaking adventures that highlight this unique marina environment. This is no ordinary rental spot — it’s a locally cherished hub where personalized customer care meets quality equipment and convenient access right from a soft sandy launch beach.
The standout feature at Pro SUP Shop is its comprehensive suite of water-based activities designed to suit all skill levels. From straightforward paddleboard and kayak rentals to guided marina tours and sunset paddle cruises, the offerings adapt to all kinds of adventurers. Beginning with the beginners’ lessons, staff provide friendly, thorough instructions that build confidence on the calm marina waters, a perfect setting for those breaking into paddling sports. Intermediate private lessons help refine technique amid an iconic backdrop of sailboats and luxury yachts.
Pro SUP Shop also hosts seasonal and community-centered events like the Women’s Wellness Paddle Series, the Marina Holiday Paddle Parade, and themed Carnival Cruiser excursions, bringing a social aspect to this waterborne experience. Paddling past the moored vessels, you might spot sea lions or glimpse the UCLA rowing team in practice, making the trip more memorable. Safety is clearly a priority here, with life vests and cushioned kayak seating readily available.
What sets this business apart is its attentive customer service paired with the unbeatable convenience of a prime Marina del Rey location. Parking is easy and affordable, and staff frequently provide tips on local dining and best paddling routes, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil hour on the water or a dynamic, guided tour at sunset, Pro SUP Shop invites you to discover the marina’s vibrant waterways through a paddle.
Adventure Tips
Check weather and tides before launching
Though Marina del Rey is typically calm, windy conditions can develop quickly. Confirm weather and tide info to ensure safety and comfort on the water.
Wear water shoes or sandals
The sandy launch area and boat docks can be slippery or rocky—footwear protects your feet while entering and exiting the water.
Bring your own dry bag
While Pro SUP Shop provides complimentary dry bags, having your own keeps valuables safe and dry during your paddle adventures.
Arrive early for guided tours
Guided and sunset tours fill up quickly, so booking ahead and arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’ll have time for a thorough pre-paddle briefing.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet coves near the northern docks where sea lions sometimes rest
- Off-the-beaten-path walkways along the marina with great birdwatching spots
Wildlife
- California sea lions
- Great blue herons
History
Marina del Rey was developed in the 1960s as the largest man-made small craft harbor in North America, transforming wetlands into a recreational hotspot.
Conservation
Local paddling businesses including Pro SUP Shop promote clean water initiatives and encourage minimal impact practices to protect the marina’s ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Along the eastern breakwater jetty
- near the yacht docks
- on a paddleboard mid-marina
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects skin from strong coastal sun exposure while on open water.
summer specific
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps electronics and valuables dry during paddling.
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures during early or late season paddles.
spring specific
Water shoes
Provides traction and protects feet on wet docks and during shallow water entry or exit.
summer specific