Gear
What to bring paddleboarding in Southwest Florida
You don't need much to start — but a few things make SWFL paddling safer and a lot more fun: a stable board, a PFD you'll actually wear in the heat, a leash, something to keep your phone dry, and real sun protection. Here's the short list, with why each one earns its spot on the board.
Board
Inflatable Paddleboard (iSUP)
Packs into a backpack, tough enough for SWFL oyster bars, and stable for beginners. The right first board for most paddlers here.
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Belt-Pack PFD
A U.S. Coast Guard–required flotation device. A low-profile inflatable belt is the one most SUP paddlers actually wear in the heat.
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SUP Leash
Keeps your board from blowing away if you fall — and your board is your biggest flotation device. Coiled for flatwater/backwater.
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Dry Bag
Keeps phone, keys, and a dry shirt safe. 10–20L roll-top is the SUP sweet spot.
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Waterproof Phone Case
So you can run the LaunchPoint tracker and shoot photos without risking your phone in the salt.
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Adjustable SUP Paddle
A lighter carbon/fiberglass paddle saves your shoulders on longer SWFL crossings. Adjustable height fits everyone.
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UPF Sun Shirt
SWFL sun is no joke. A long-sleeve UPF 50 hooded shirt beats reapplying sunscreen all day.
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Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Mineral, reef-safe SPF for the spots you missed — better for the estuaries you paddle.
Shop on AmazonA note on these links:as an Amazon Associate, LaunchPoint may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through the links above — at no extra cost to you. We only list gear we'd genuinely recommend. See our full disclosure.