New Hampshire doesn’t have the longest coastline, but it more than makes up for it with postcard-worthy lakes, forested rivers, and legit whitewater. Whether you’re a brand-new paddler looking for calm water or an experienced rider chasing rapids and ocean swells, there are plenty of places to paddle board in New Hampshire that belong on your SUP bucket list.

Below you’ll find the best lakes, rivers, whitewater runs, and coastal spots to explore—plus a few tips on matching each location to your skill level and board. So read on to learn where to paddle board in New Hampshire.

As one of the largest lakes in New England, Lake Winnipesaukee gives you endless room to roam. Its clear water, island-dotted views, and backdrop of the Ossipee and Belknap Mountains make every session feel like a mini-vacation. Stick to sheltered coves for beginner-friendly conditions, or head out early in the morning for glassy sunrise paddles.

If you loved On Golden Pond, you’ve already seen Squam Lake on screen. In person it’s even better: quiet coves, granite outcrops, and loons calling across the water. This is a prime spot for relaxed exploring, wildlife watching, and SUP yoga on a stable all-around or touring board.

Lake Sunapee sits in the heart of the Sunapee Region and serves up long views of rolling hills and classic New England shoreline. Launch from one of the public beaches, cruise along the wooded shoreline, and stay on the water for sunset—this is one of the prettiest golden hours in the state.

Straddling the New Hampshire–Maine border, Umbagog Lake feels wonderfully wild. Expect fewer crowds, more loons, and the chance to see moose along the shore. Touring and inflatable SUPs are ideal here, especially if you want to link up lake paddling with short portages into nearby coves and backwaters.

Tucked up in the Great North Woods, Lake Francis is a quiet retreat for paddlers who like their water calm and their forests dense. It’s a great base for camping and low-key exploration, with long, protected stretches that are friendly to beginners and families.

Wellington State Park sits on the shores of famously clear Newfound Lake. Launch from the broad sandy beach, paddle along the tree-lined shoreline, then hop off your board for a swim. On calmer days, this is an awesome place to practice skills like step-back turns or even a few SUP yoga poses.

Forming New Hampshire’s western border, the Connecticut River is tailor-made for mellow day trips. Expect gentle current, farm fields, forested bluffs, and the occasional covered bridge. Pick shorter, more protected sections if you’re newer to moving water, and always check wind and flow before you go.

The Merrimack River gives you a little bit of everything—urban views, quiet stretches, and occasional light rapids depending on the section. It’s a fun option if you want to explore by SUP but stay close to towns for post-paddle food and coffee.

For a brackish, coastal-river vibe, launch onto the Hampton River. You’ll wind your way past salt marshes, moored boats, and seabirds, with the Atlantic just beyond the inlet. Plan around tides and wind; an incoming tide plus light wind at your back makes for an easier out-and-back.

Whitewater SUP is for experienced paddlers only, but if you have the skills (and a proper river board, helmet, and PFD), New Hampshire has some gems.

In the north country, the Androscoggin River delivers cold, clear water and a mix of Class I–III rapids depending on the release. It’s a fantastic place to test your edging, ferrying, and surfing skills on a dedicated whitewater SUP.

Flowing out of the White Mountains, the Pemi combines scenic gorges and pools with playful rapids. Intermediate and advanced paddlers will love linking mellow stretches with wave trains and technical moves. As always, go with paddling partners or local guides who know the current conditions.

New Hampshire’s 18-mile coastline punches above its weight. Some standout launch spots:

• Rye Harbor State Park – Great for exploring rocky shoreline and small coves.

• Wallis Sands State Beach – Fun on calmer days for small surf and near-shore paddling.

• Jenness State Beach – A classic surf spot; on lighter-swell days, confident paddlers can pick off a few mellow waves on a SUP.

Check marine forecasts and start on low-wind, low-swell days if you’re newer to ocean paddling.

Although it’s inland, White Lake has a coastal-harbor feel: sandy beaches, clear water, and enough fetch for small wind-driven chop. It’s a great option when you want a taste of ocean paddling without committing to open water—ideal for families and newer paddlers warming up before hitting the actual coast.

New Hampshire may be a small state, but when it comes to SUP variety, it’s stacked. From iconic Lake Winnipesaukee and film-famous Squam Lake to mellow stretches of the Connecticut River, rowdy whitewater on the Androscoggin and Pemi, and salty laps along the short but beautiful seacoast, you can build an entire season of paddling without leaving the Granite State.

Pick your water—flat, moving, or ocean—match it to your skill level and board, and you’ll quickly see why so many paddlers fall in love with New Hampshire’s mix of wildness and charm.