When it comes to paddleboarding on Hawaii’s Big Island, you won't find many options to rent stand-up paddleboards (SUP) directly in Waimea, Hawaii. Waimea is better known for its rolling upland ranchlands, cooler climate, and outdoor adventures on land—rather than calm oceanfront bays ideal for SUP. The nearest coastal towns offering SUP rentals are along the Kona coast to the west and the Kohala coast to the north, where protected lagoons and gentle bays invite paddlers of all skill levels.

Waimea itself sits about 45 minutes to an hour inland from the ocean, perched high above the western coastline. The shoreline around Waimea is rugged and dramatic but rarely suitable for casual paddleboarding due to stronger surf and rocky shorelines. For SUP rentals near Waimea, travelers typically head toward Kailua-Kona or Puako, where rental shops provide everything from beginner boards to guided SUP tours.

If you're aiming to explore the waters around Waimea by SUP, your best bet is planning a day trip down to these coastal areas. Kailua-Kona offers calm waters and convenient rentals, ideal for a practical, accessible start to stand-up paddleboarding on the Big Island.

While SUP rentals are rare near Waimea proper, the region’s true appeal lies in its hiking, horseback riding, and visiting ranches that capture a distinctly different slice of Hawaii. For those interested in blending both land and sea, renting a SUP on the Kona side combined with a visit to Waimea’s upcountry adventures makes for a seamless and rewarding itinerary.

Check below for the best adventures in Waimea, Hawaii, to discover complementary activities like hiking Waipi'o Valley, biking the Kohala trails, or horseback riding on local ranches. This will help build a well-rounded plan for your time on the island—whether you start your water adventure with SUP rentals near Waimea or dive into the landscape’s vivid contrasts on land.