10 Best Kids’ Surf and Paddleboards Rated in 2024
Ana
Angeline Mirenda
Paddleboarding can be an excellent way to encourage water confidence and exercise in children. Stand-up paddleboarding has been shown to improve balance and improve cardiovascular function. It is a low-impact, full-body workout that can help maintain healthy body weight while also allowing time for you to distress and even meditate while on the water. Combined with appropriate safety gear, this activity can be a safe and fun way to encourage your little one to get out and play on the water this summer. We have gathered a selection of surf and paddleboards in a variety of style and sizes from across the internet that we hope will aid you in choosing the best board for your child. Whether it’s their first time out or they are an avid enthusiast, we hope that one of our 10 Best Kids Surf and Paddleboards will get your kiddo to “hang ten” this summer!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 30 hrs of research
Several colors are available
Top deck is anti-slip, soft, and stable
Great for beginners
Has triple fins on the bottom
Made of PVC
Best Kids' Surf and Paddleboards Reviewed
1. SereneLife Inflatable SUP
Several colors are available
Top deck is anti-slip, soft, and stable
Great for beginners
Has triple fins on the bottom
Made of PVC
Can be wobbly for some beginners
A few had trouble with the pressure gauge
Inflatable stand-up paddleboards are wonderful for kids to learn the basics of surfing and paddling. The triple fins on the bottom of the board give added ability to handle and steer the board.
Read moreThe well-designed board comes with many accessories included and it is a great companion for children who are just beginning to discover this lovely water activity. It provides a safer beginner learning experience.
Design
This inflatable stand-up model has several colors available and a top deck that is anti-slip, soft, and stable. It has better balance than some other thinner boards because it is extra-wide. This is what makes it fabulous for beginners.
Materials
If falls do occur, they will be cushioned with the no-slip top material. Included is a 10-foot board, ankle cuff leash for safety, aluminum paddle, storage bag, and air pump. Try out this SUP for your kids that is made of PVC.
Ease of Use
Balance is key to both sports and SUPs are a fantastic way to learn. The triple fins on the bottom of the board make steering and steering quite easy. Beginners will get the hang of this quickly and appreciate the extra help given by the fins.
Value
The SereneLife Inflatable SUP is above the average price of our list, but not by too much. It’s a pretty mid-tier investment when you consider the price of some of its competitors. It’s also durable and comes with a lot of accessories. If you know your family enjoys paddle boarding recreationally and you want a quality board to last you a while but not break the bank, this is a solid option!
2. Lucky Bums Body
A few colors are available
Use at the river, beach, or waterpark
Built to last
Comes in three different sizes
Created by a family business
Side pieces came off for some buyers
For a few people boards split when used
Buy from a family-operated business when you purchase one of these Lucky Bums body boards. Use them at the river, beach, or waterpark and enjoy a ride you will never forget.
Read moreThese body boards come in three different sizes, so you can get the perfect length for your child. The shorter boards are best for younger kids and the larger ones can be handled well by older children.
Design
There is nothing to assemble or treat, so this well-designed board is ready to hit the water straight from the box. A few colors are available with this board that comes with a wrist leash to secure the board.
Materials
It is lightweight, buoyant, and durable because of the EPS core and is built to last. Three gradient sizes are offered in this body board that includes 60/40 rails, a high-density bottom, and rear channels.
Ease of Use
This item has excellent control, increased speeds, and more maneuverability than some others on the market. Bodyboards, like this one, come with a leash for your wrist for a more effortless ride.
Value
The Lucky Bums Body Board is one of the less expensive options when it comes to beach activities. These boards are not as pricey as paddle or surfboards but they also are limited in how far out you can take them and they have a shorter shelf-life. If you’re looking for something fun that will last a few years but you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged, this is for you.
3. Atoll 11' Foot Inflatable SUP
Is inflatable and 40% lighter than other models
Hand pump is included
Includes bungee tie downs in the back
Comes with an extra-tough poly-flex leash
Is a stiff, rigid board
May have valve problems
Some buyers had leaks from the sides
This is a stiff, rigid body board that has been water-tested at 350 pounds. The Atoll Foot Inflatable SUP also has a detachable fin which is durable and compatible with all US/universal fin boxes.
Read moreThe paddle separates into three pieces for easy storage. On the top deck, fifteen D-rings are attached to tie things down when needed. The board is a very helpful companion for little learners.
Design
The Atoll paddleboard has a super-light construction, is inflatable, and 40% lighter than other similar models. A fast hand pump is included and a backpack large enough for all accessories and the board.
Materials
It comes with bungee tie downs in the back and a paddle with a nylon blade that is lightweight and adjustable. It comes with an extra-tough poly-flex leash. The board has mesh sides that allow it to dry when it is stored.
Ease of Use
Everything in this set packs neatly away in the large backpack. Even the paddle dismantles into three pieces for easy storage and carry. No tools are necessary and no worries about lost screws with this model.
Value
The Atoll 11’ Inflatable SUP is one of the two most expensive products on our list. If your family is serious about their ocean or lake activities, this is where you want to look. These boards are more expensive but they’re also of significantly higher quality. This set includes a pump, paddle, and travel bag too, so you won’t need to buy any additional kits with it.
4. Tower Inflatable 10’4” Stand Up
32-inch deck width for maximum stability and balance
Large bottom fin improves speed, handling, and steering for beginners
Utilizes 6-inch thick military-grade PVC for top-quality durability
Includes paddle, SUP pump, deck pad, center fin, hand-hold strap, and carrying strap
The included paddle does not float and can be very expensive to replace if lost
It can be difficult to inflate to the proper PSI pressure levels
With the Tower Inflatable 10’4” SUP, you get everything that your little one needs to get out on the water and start learning. A two-year manufacturer’s warranty protects you from accidental breaks and defects of the board itself (but does not cover the paddle or accessories).
Read morePaddleboarding can be a fantastic cardio workout that also works to develop flexibility and gross-motor control. Utilizing a paddleboard with the appropriate safety gear can help build water confidence and encourage exercise.
Design
Combined with drop-stitch-style construction, this quite unique and durable paddleboard resists the typical dings and cracks that can severely cut down on the life of your board. A high-pressure pump is included which can inflate and deflate the board in minutes.
Materials
Top-quality materials made from military-grade PVC and fiberglass guarantee a level of durability strong enough to withstand the use and abuse that often accompanies learning a new sport. The deflated board rolls up and straps closed for quick and easy storage.
Ease of Use
A soft and non-slip top deck awaits your kiddo with this inflatable paddleboard, perfectly suited for a variety of skill levels. The coating can help prevent accidental slips and lightweight materials can absorb impact and shock damage, reducing the chance of injury.
Value
The Tower Inflatable 10’4” Standup is the second of our upper-echelon options. This board is pricey but it’s also a premium buy. It comes with a two year warranty that protects you if the board is damaged or defective in any way. It doesn’t include the paddle or accessories though, so make sure you keep a keen eye on all of those to get the best use and longest lifespan with this kit.
5. Pathfinder Inflatable SUP
Utilizes high-quality PVC and multi-layer drop-stitch construction for superior durability
Set includes paddle, pump, center fin, carry bag, and valve wrench
Large deck pad incorporates bungee cord for securing cargo
Measures 9’ 9” and supports up to 240 pounds
The pump may not be able to attach properly in order to fill to the recommended 15 PSI level
Board may be more narrow than similar models which can make it more difficult to balance
Despite weighing less than half as much as more traditional options, the Pathfinder Inflatable SUP provides a firm and stable support. Once your beach time day of fun is done, the entire SUP deflates and easily packs away inside the included backpack-style carry bag that is large enough to use for your towels and other accessories when not holding the paddleboard.
Read moreWith a supporting weight of 240 pounds, this paddleboard is the perfect way to bring your little one...or even your furbaby with you out on the lake. Paddleboarding is an excellent way to bolster gross-motor skills, build muscle tone and strength, and improve flexibility.
Design
Deflateable for easy storage, when fully inflated this board has the same rigidity and stability as a solid SUP with half the weight. A large deck pad allows for ease of riding which is great for beginners as it helps them quickly balance and prevents accidental slipping.
Materials
Top-quality material and construction prevent dings and scrapes, including accidental damage from paddles hitting the sides. This set also included everything your child needs to get out on the water within 20 minutes from an aluminum paddle to the detachable center fin.
Ease of Use
This lightweight and highly portable paddleboard make a great first option for the casual SUP-er who is looking for a stable board that is easy to transport. It comes with a pump that allows for quick and easy inflation up to the recommended 15 PSI in less than 10 minutes.
Value
The Pathfinder Inflatable SUP is right in the middle of our price points. This board is a great option if you’ve rented a paddleboard a few times and know it’s popular enough that your family will get frequent use out of this. It includes the necessary accessories for setup and it can support up to 240 pounds so adults can enjoy this too!
6. Giantex 6' Foamie Boards
Has a foam top, EPS core, EPE deck, and PP bottom
Uses a transaction pad and a free leash
Has removable fins to transport and store easily
Must be assembled but comes with simple instructions
Great for kids and beginners
Fins broke for some people
Top layer may peel after several uses
Beginners and small children may want to start with a board like this foamie. This board can be enjoyed in the ocean, pool, river, lake, or large stream. The easy-to-follow instructions will guide you easily, so you will be in the water in no time.
Read moreThis lovely lightweight board is very eye-catching and any child would love to get it as a gift. Built for travel and small storage places, the Giantex surfboard had removable fins and must be assembled for use.
Design
With this well-designed foam board, kids will learn how to balance quickly and use the transaction pad and free leash. The easy instructions will guide you in the assembly, and three terrific patterns are offered for your choice of colors.
Materials
It is soft on the top, has an EPS core, EPE deck, and PP bottom that is slick for speed in the water. The leash will allow them to keep the board with them always. The fins are removable and will store nicely in a backpack with the board and leash.
Ease of Use
This foam board is a wonderful item for kids to enjoy the water, especially smaller kids. It is soft, and they will not get hurt if they do fall or slip off. Beginner learners will appreciate how easy and effortless this board is to use.
Value
The Giantex 6’ Foamie Board is one of the less expensive items on our list. This surfboard is perfect for beginners! The foam construction makes it lightweight and soft so if kids fall or bang against it, it’s not going to do any serious damage. It won’t last you forever, and if they’re serious about surfing they’ll eventually want to move to a more professionally equipped board, but this is great for newcomers and families that just want to do a little surfing for fun on vacations!
7. Spooner Boards Freestyle
Made just for beginners and small kids
Provides a good workout
Can be used in a variety of environments
A great assortment of colors offered
Board is 24” for short riders
When used indoors, boards scratched the floors
Some kids were bored with these
Let your child work on his or her balance, core stability, gross motor skills, and coordination with one of these fabulous Spooner boards. They will allow the freestyle moves of needed for surfing, bodyboards, SUPs, skateboards, and scooters.
Read moreThese Spooner Boards Freestyle models are so durable they can be used in almost any environment, weather condition, or location. They work on solid surfaces, as well as in water too.
Design
Kids will love these boards for the colors, the moves, and the unlimited fun and excitement. It is almost indestructible and is perfect for short riders with the compact size of 24”.
Materials
Made of high-quality and durable materials, It allows children to practice the twists, turns, spins, wobbles, slides, and more with this unique board to gain the necessary skills.
Ease of Use
The moves of almost any sport that uses a board can be duplicated with this Spooner board by kids and beginners. The freestyle model allows them to experiment with ease.
Value
The Spooner Freestyle Board is well below the average price of this guide. It’s meant for beginners and isn’t really designed to do any one sport. Kids can practice balance, stability, and control with this. It’s a good choice for younger kids that might be interested in athletic water endeavors, but not quite ready for the more expensive and hazardous boards yet.
8. GoofBoard Classic
Will not attract grit or dirt like a foam board
Patented and expertly engineered
Made and designed by California surfers
Is very sturdy and strong
Challenging for the whole family
A few people had to sand some of the edges
Glue on the roller came undone for some kids
The GoofBoard simulates surfing for beginners and experienced riders, and it has super traction and grip. This board will provide the most realistic experience of surfing, and with the easy rocking flow, it will help build confidence.
Read moreEven though this board was intended for beginners and kids, those with some board riding experience will benefit from the added practice of fluidity, balance, strength, and board control.
Design
This great product was made and designed by California surfers. It is patented and expertly engineered, plus it will not attract grit or dirt like a foam board. The suggested weight limit is 350 pounds.
Materials
Available in three different colors, the deck is made of birch plywood. Recycled, sustainable materials make up the roller. This sturdy, strong practice board is a challenge for the whole family.
Ease of Use
This GoofBoard Classic model is great for both beginners and more experienced paddleboarders, due to the easy rocking flow it provides. The balance board also cleans quite easily with a wet cloth.
Value
The Goofboard Classic sits right around the average price on our list. This board looks classy and capable with its elegant wooden design. It’s designed by California surfers to help simulate the surfing experience for beginners so this is the way to go if you have children interested or just getting started. Know that eventually you’ll have to upgrade to a true board if they stick with it, but it’s the perfect trial piece!
9. ANCHEER iSUP Board Package
Has military drop-stitch PVC construction
Durable and long-lasting
Has three fins for great stability
Wonderful choice for flatwater activities
Includes everything needed to use
Comments that paddle does not float
A few said the board was not stable in water
All types of activities can be done in flatwater successfully on this board. It is perfect for training children balance, coordination, stability, and endurance. Your children will greatly benefit from it.
Read moreThese boards are perfect for letting dogs ride with you. They love riding on SUPs and will if you train them to do it. It will create many fun memories for all family members.
Design
This board is long-lasting and durable, plus it comes in three great color patterns. It comes with a detachable middle fin, three-piece paddle, dual-function pump, backpack for carrying and storage of pieces, and a repair kit.
Materials
The ANCHEER SUP has a very strong construction with military drop-stitch PVC on the inside and three for fabulous stability. The weight limit was tested at 240 pounds, so all sizes of kids should be able to ride comfortably.
Ease of Use
These can be enjoyed on knees for beginners or standing up for those with some good balancing skills. Those with some experience will gain skills in these areas as well, but at a higher level. Simply give it a try!
Value
The Ancheer iSup Board Package has everything you need to get started and sits right around the average price point of this guide. This paddleboard kit includes the board and all necessary accessories. It’s not as finely crafted as the more expensive pieces, but it’s a solid choice if you intend to use it recreationally and still want something with longevity!
10. Bo-Toys Body with EPS Core
Features heat lamination construction
Provides greater speeds, strength, and maneuverability
Made of high-level density polyethylene
Is water resistant for all wave types
Includes a wristband lease
Sides split on some boards
A few remarks about the back coming off
The different places these boards can be used makes them so versatile and well-liked. Kids will love to use them anywhere there is water, even in pools and the backyard.
Read moreThe wristband leash may seem like a small insignificant accessory that comes with these bodyboards, but it is quite essential in the water. It will keep your board close to you and prevent you from having to chase it down.
Design
This well-designed colorful product is water resistant for all wave types and has 60/40 rails for better skill. It has an EPS core and is lightweight, plus it features heat lamination construction.
Materials
Made of high-level, density polyethylene with a crescent tail and channels, this bodyboard comes in four super colors. The materials are quite light so It can be easily carried by children.
Ease of Use
Before you let your kids experience a SUP or surfboard, let them develop their balancing, coordination, and motor skills with a bodyboard like this one. They are abilities to last a lifetime.
Value
The Bo-Toys Body Board is the least expensive item on our list, currently. It’s a great way for kids to build confidence in the water and get some exercise. These boards will last a season or two but they’re not built for durability, so don’t buy this if you’re looking for something with an impressive lifespan.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
We search for the best-rated, most-frequently bought items in this selected field for your review. This saves you time in scanning through all of the products online that may or may not be the best for your child. Buyers and parents have given their overwhelming, positive feedback on all of these surf and paddleboards. There are three basic types of modern paddleboards--surf, all-around, and flatwater/race boards. The shorter, jump-in-the-water-style boards that you tend to find in tourist shops are considered surf-style boards. They are designed for use when you are going to spend most of your time in the surf itself with a narrower shape that is more maneuverable on waves but slower than other types of boards. All-around boards are the most versatile type of SUPs, featuring a wider deck design that allows for added stability which can be useful for first-timers. Flatwater boards have been created as transportation options and use a body shape with rounded sides to increase glide speed. They are excellent for open-ocean paddling and tend to be the longest style of board.
Materials
All of the items that made to our lists are from reputable brands that work with quality materials and have experience within this field. Beyond the different styles of paddleboards are the differences in construction. Hard or solid-style SUPs are those that are made from fiberglass, epoxy, and other types of rigid materials. Hard paddleboards tend to have the best agility and maneuverability. They are able to glide and catch waves and are often used for racing due to their speed. Inflatable paddleboards excel in portability as they are able to quickly inflate and deflate as needed. Most inflatable boards come with a storage bag or backpack that can allow for easy storage when not in use. Most of these items are made of PVC, foam, or polyethylene, which are all very durable and long-lasting. These boards are ready for much use by your kids and the whole family. The weight limits are high, so adults can ride most of these boards too. The majority of the boards come with satisfaction guarantees to ensure your happiness with the items. A few of them are produced by family-owned companies, so they take great pride in their work.
Ease of Use
Kids and beginners need to develop the necessary skills and abilities to use and enjoy these products successfully. However, the overall design has to be child-friendly in order to make them feel safe and in control of the board. We feature several practice boards where these skills can be gained quickly. Children can easily use all of these items and they are appropriate for their weights and sizes. Kids as young as 3 years old can enjoy some of the smaller boards, such as the Spooner Boards. With parent supervision, talents can be increased and gained. For SUPs, we offer this advice for beginners on how to use them. Get on the floating board by sitting on it with one leg over each side. Adjust your body core by getting on your knees. You can practice balancing and paddling in this position. Once you are comfortable doing this, try standing up and paddling, balancing yourself as you move through the water slowly. Manufacturers also advise following the instructions, take your time in developing your skills and enjoy the learning process.
Value
Each product on our list comes with many different benefits for the little paddleboarders. Not only are they well-designed, made of high-quality materials and easy to use, but also help your children develop a new skill, practice some physical activities out in the open and have lots and lots of fun memories. The true value of these items are the many health benefits that come while exercising, yet the advantage of not getting bored in the process. The amusing nature of the sport allows children to even bond with their friends and family members as they play in the water and show them their abilities. It is a great way to gain some self-confidence and a sense of achievement once they've managed to successfully balance their body on the board. We are quite certain that no matter which choice you make, these valuable water companions will provoke a smile on your child's face and be a loyal friend during vacations and many summer adventures.
Design Materials Ease of Use Value 
Originally believed to have been invented in the early 1900s, records of early forms of stand-up paddleboarding have now been found that date the sport back as far as 1,000 BC. Popularized in Hawaii, these early records show that its span has reached across the world as far away as Peru, Italy, and even China. Modern paddleboarding has been revolutionized over the last 100 years by many famous surfers that have evolved the sport to work with the more surfboard-like SUPs that we know today.
Surfing is an extremely rewarding sport for children, as it is not only fun but also offers numerous health benefits. Some of the physical benefits provided by surfing are leg and back strength, and cardiovascular fitness. The sport is a great way to spend time in the outdoors, and have fun in the water and enjoy the flow of hormones such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins being released from their bodies which are the main contributors to feeling happy and excited about the beauty of life.
Other Factors to Consider
Physical Development
Convincing your children to move away from the TV screen or the computer and do a physical activity can be quite challenging these days. In fact, most kids get their workout while pretending to be skiing or dancing on the Nintendo Wii. Going out in nature and enjoying the sun is important since it is a natural source for producing vitamin D. However it is quite fascinating how quickly your children will prepare to leave their electronic devices and exercise their muscles once the beach and the water are mentioned. The best thing about paddleboarding is that it doesn't seem like a mandatory gym class your kids need to take once a week. In fact, it almost feels like an adventure they embark on once they get in the water and pretend to be sailing towards unknown lands. Adults are always advised to monitor them so keeping them company in the water could be a great workout for parents as well. By the end of the quest, your body, cardiovascular health, and your brain will be thanking you for all those happy hormones that were produced while you were getting into shape.
Accessories
Many of the products on our list come with convenient accessories for portable, safety, assembly or guidance purposes. No tools are needed to put these boards together, although some of them do come apart. Instructions are included for a few of them to help with the fin holders and leashes for wrists. All of the SUPs that are inflatable come with pumps to inflate them, and most of the higher-priced boards come with a carrying bag that will hold all accessories and the board too. This is a quite important criterion since you want to properly secure your sports equipment and many little learners as well as their parents use public transportation or take walks to the beach so having a proper bag to carry your board is very helpful. Overall the designs of the items are well-thought of, so paddle-boarding can be an exciting and entertaining experience, rather than a dangerous and frustrating activity. We truly hope that you will enjoy the benefits of each individual products and the components that come included with your brand new paddle-board.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are the paddles adjustable? Does the paddle break down and fit inside the bag? Do the oars float?
Yes, the paddles for the SUPs are adjustable and they do break down and fit inside the included carrying bags. The oars do float.
q: Are the body boards good for SUP yoga?
Yes, most of the SUP boards are good for yoga, but just watch the weight limits of the individual boards to ensure you get one that is the proper size and thickness for the user.
q: Can first-timers stand up easily on the SUPs? Are they easy for kids to use and control?
Yes, these boards are very easy to use for the first time and kids will enjoy using them. They are mostly made from soft materials, so they will not hurt themselves if they slip or fall.
q: Do the fins detach on the SUPs?
On the ones with three fins, the middle one comes off only. For the boards with just one fin, it does come off and attaches easily.
q: What is the weight limit on these boards?
For the SUPs, the usual limit is 250 pounds, but some of them can hold heavier weights. The paddle boards are less sturdy, so they hold less weight. Check the charts that are given for some of the products to ensure you get one the intended user can enjoy.
q: Are the SUPs good to ride with dogs? I see people ride with a dog all the time.
Yes, the SUPs are great to train dogs to ride. Just watch the weight limits and keep the dog’s nails trimmed, especially for the inflatable SUPs.
q: Is the weight or height the most important factor when selecting a bodyboard?
The weight would be the most important factor in choosing a SUP or bodyboard, just like for a regular surfboard.
q: Do you have to put wax on the body boards or SUPs? Do these boards come with ankle or wrist straps?
No, no wax is needed for these boards because they are made of styrofoam. Just unwrap, put the fins on if necessary, inflate if necessary, and ride.
Sources
- , Choosing a surfboard for your kid, Informative Article
- , How to Choose the Best Paddle Boards for Kids, Blog
- , How to Paddle Board with Your Kids, Blog Article
