If you’re anything like us here at West End Outdoors, you’ll be dying to get back out on the water and explore all that Scotland has to offer. Below we have gathered a list of the 10 Great Places to SUP in Scotland, based on what we think has a good mix of ease of access for most people and stunning Scottish views!

Let us know you’re favourite SUP spots by tagging @westendoutdoors in your next Instagram post! Until then, enjoy our top picks…

#1 – Luss

An old favourite, but definitely not somewhere to be overlooked. Luss combines amazing views of Ben Lomond (Scotland’s most popular Munro!) with a beautiful historic village that provides a slice of highland heaven just a 40-minute drive from Glasgow. 

Luss has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as a large newly build car park so you know you will definitely be able to reserve your space for the barbecue!

Perfect for: Family Adventurers and First Time SUPing

#2 – Portobello Beach

We may be based on the West coast, but we still get the draw of the beach at Portobello. Plus, with it being right on the edge of the massive tourist hotspot of Edinburgh, it was an easy pick for this list.

While you’re there why not get an ice cream from one of the amazing local businesses, and on your way back home leave time to explore Edinburgh’s magical winding streets in the sunset light!

Ideal for: Public Transport Adventurers and Ice Cream Lovers

#3 – Loch Eck

A slightly further out adventure (but still one not to be missed) is Loch Eck. As the crow flies it’s no further away from Glasgow than Luss, but to get to it you must first decide either to cross the Clyde on the ferry, or take the long way round past Arrochar.

This makes this beautiful loch far quieter than most so you can enjoy your SUP adventure completely at one with your surroundings! When you’re all done, visit the incredible Benmore Gardens at the south end of the loch if you want to witness the tallest trees you’ll have ever seen, and some of their winged inhabitants too.

Perfect for: Solo or Couple Adventurers, Campers, Yoga SUPers, and Nature Warriors

#4 – Loch Morlich

This one is close to home for our adventure specialist James, as he grew up a stones throw away from Scotland’s highest beach on the shores of Loch Morlich. 

Set in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park, with camping, hillwalking, and amazing nighttime entertainment in Aviemore just down the road, Loch Morlich makes the perfect highland base for your SUP journey. While you’re in the area, make sure to also pop along to Loch Inch and Loch an Eilein for some more spectacular SUPing. 

Perfect for: Road trip adventurers, Campers, and Hillwalkers

#5 – Lunderston Bay

Lunderston Bay is to Glasgow what Portobello is to Edinburgh in that its Glasgow’s closest beach! Visit Lunderston on a sunny day and you’ll be greeted with all manner of families, dogs, and paddle-boarders alike.

Expect views down to the towering peaks of the Isle of Arran in this scenic, calm bay on the River Clyde. I know this is the second time we’ve recommended grabbing an ice cream on this list, but at Lunderston Bay you’re too close to the world famous Nardini’s ice cream parlour in Largs not to have a gander at their selection. 

Perfect for: Dog lovers, Younger families, and more Ice Cream Lovers!

 #6 – Loch Ard

If Scotland’s coastlines aren’t for you, Loch Ard might be a better option. Settled within the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, just along from the Village of Aberfoyle, Loch Ard is surrounded by well-maintained forestry paths that let you get right round to the uninhabited side of the loch. 

Follow these paths to SUP far away from any traffic noise. This southernly side is also host to a small island just off the shore that can be easily paddled out to for an amazing barbecue spot or unforgettable star gazing experience.

Perfect for: Stargazers, Barbecuers, and Relaxation

#7 – Loch Tay

Take a paddle through part of Scotland’s history on Loch Tay. At the upper end of the loch lies the Scottish Crannog Centre – an amazing living museum celebrating a rich part of Scottish prehistory.

Paddle around the crannog before visiting the picturesque village of Pitlochry nearby for a night in a boutique hotel or authentic Airbnb for some well deserved rest after visiting all the other locations on this list!

Perfect for: History-Lovers and Highland Stop-Overs

#8 – St Andrews

If you liked the learning about our ancient crannogs, chances are you’ll love paddling past Scotland’s oldest and highest-rated university in St Andrews.

The university, world-famous golf courses, and surrounding town provide an amazing backdrop to SUP alongside. As you make your way along the long straight of the West Sand Beach towards the town, you’ll see why the town is also known as the home of golf with seven separate courses – one of them being the oldest course in the world – so it would definitely be an idea to pack your clubs with your paddles next time you’re passing through!

Perfect for: Golfing SUPers, Students, and History Buffs

#9 – Arisaig

Before you jump on the ferry from Mallaig to Skye, turn off on the road to the small village of Arisaig where you will find a beautiful tidal bay that is sheltered, and yet large enough to feel like you’re out in the open water.

The road up to Arisaig will give you a taste of storybook Scotland with towering rock faces either side of the road breaking out into the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which makes for a mean photo op spot on any road trip!

Perfect for: Harry Potter fans, and those looking for a taste of sea SUPing

#10 – Millport 

For those of you from the Glasgow area who remember going to the beach with your parents, chances are you’re already well versed with the Isle of Cumbrae and the town of Millport. Hope on the train down to Largs, and from there it’s just a short walk down the Main Street to catch the Cumbrae ferry.

Millport offers a day out for all the family with a relaxing cycle round the island, or a number of lovely cafes along the front, but paddling out past the famous crocodile rock to Eileans in the bay is the real treat for us.

Perfect for: Whole Family Adventures, Public Transport Adventurers

We hope you’ve liked our Top 10! Remember, if you’re out enjoying Scotland’s beautiful landscape, tag us at @westendadventure and we will share the fun on.

Happy paddling!