STAND UP PADDLEBOARDS
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a gentle, enjoyable and easy way to get on the water when the weather is good and the water is flat. You don’t even have to stand up or be super fit, it is just as much fun sitting on the board. Please note: it is not recommended for non-swimmers.
If you want to try a paddleboard for the first time we recommend Wesup. This is a café and paddleboarding centre down by the marina, next to the pavilion. You can hire paddleboards or take lessons. WeSup’s cafe offers brunch, lovely coffee, cakes and snacks. In the evening sit on the terrace and drink a glass of Salcombe Gin. Book online at www.torquay.wesuphq.com
During the Summer WeSup has paddleboarding and coffee hub on Torre Abbey Sands where you can hire boards and kayaks. Wesup MDL Marina, Vaughan Road TQ2 5EQ
Wildlife Spotting and Rib Rides
Torquay Waterports down by the Marina have a big black boat called The Raptor which races around the bay at up to 70 mph – great for adrenaline junkies. They also offer the more sedate One Hour Rib Sea Safari which is highly recommended. You have the boat to yourself and the skipper will take you wherever you want to go – out to the Orestone Rock or across the bay to where the dolphins play near Berry Head.
www.torquaywatersports.co.uk
Devon Sea Safari offer a fabulous boat trip in a rib boat leaving from Teignmouth searching for local wildlife including dolphins, seals and Peregrine Falcons. Book ahead because it is very popular. Also make sure you get there in plenty of time as parking can be difficult in Teignmouth.
www.devonseasafari.com
OPEN WATER SWIMMING
If you are a strong and competent swimmer you can go from Agatha’s Christie’s favourite beach Beacon Cove and swim along the coast to Torquay’s natural stone arch.
If you would like to boost your confidence, or learn the best way to swim in the sea, then you could try Susie Phillips, a qualified open water swimming coach based in Torquay.
www.openwaterswimmingtorquay.com
The safest beach for young children in Torquay is Torre Abbey Sands (pictured left). There are also sandy beaches at Preston Beach, Goodrington Sands and Broadsands in Paignton. Always remember to check tide times and only swim if it is safe to do so.
EXPLORE BY KAYAK
Sea Kayak Torbay provides kayaks and clothing and offers kayak tours all over Torbay throughout the year. No experience is necessary.
For more information: www.seakayaktorbay.co.uk
During the Summer you can also hire a kayak at Anstey’s Cove beach www.ansteyscove.info/kayak-hire/4542533141
Or try WeSup’s hub on Torre Abbey Sands.
GIVE A JET SKI A GO
Jet Set Go, based down by MDL Marina at Torquay harbour, offers tuition and jet ski hire either for a half or full day.
If you have never done it before, try and pick a day when the weather is good and the sea is flat. Jet Set Go are responsible Jet Ski operators who respect the local wildlife and it is much easier than you may think. Perfect for a special treat and something you will never forget.
The trip takes up to two hours and if you are lucky you may see dolphins. You turn off the engines and you can hear them breathing all around you as they surface. If the cost is a deterrent then two people can share a lesson.
For more information: www.jetsetgo.club/
