Stand up paddle boarding is one of the fastest-growing activities in the world, and Austin is a great place to enjoy this water sport. We’re joined by Andy Lukei, owner of Austin Paddle Sports, to share his experience with paddle boarding and a few tips for all you paddlers out there.

(Photos courtesy of Austin Paddle Sports)

What makes Austin such a great place for stand up paddling?

Austin, much like Southern California has several key ingredients that have attributed to the success of paddle boarding, which include: easy access to nice user friendly bodies of h2o, a very temperate climate, outdoor enthusiast, and extremely fitness orientated population.

Where are a few of your favorite spots to paddle in Austin?

The West end of Town Lake by Red Bud Island, and I love getting out of town to paddle, there are about 8 rivers inside an hour’s drive that are absolutely gorgeous to paddle.

What are some things people should consider when deciding between renting vs buying a stand up paddle board?

Start by renting, make sure you dig the sport and get a feel for the type/size of board you want before pulling the trigger. When buying go to a local shop that can help make sure you pair up with the right board. “Big box” retailers in Texas don’t have the expertise in this sport yet, they can’t answer the basic questions, stick with a local SUP shop that does.

Tell us a great paddling story.

I decided to open Austin Paddle Sports four years ago after paddling Bull Creek on Memorial Day weekend with my wife and some friends. Boaters we so fascinated with what we were doing we were getting summoned from boat to boat so people could try it out. We spent 3 hours boat hopping, charging 1-beer per ride, and after my wife saw local Austinites reception to the sport she encouraged me to open the rental op and shop.

Austin Paddle Sports offers sales, lessons, demos, rentals and tours.  Check them out on website and connect with them on Facebook!

Get your feet wet at The Rowing Dock, in partnership with Austin Paddle Sports, to try stand up paddle boarding or take a lesson.

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