SUP in Florida

Kirk wanted to try stand up paddle boarding (SUP for short), and Katie and I had been out a couple times in Michigan. So we were the perfect partners in crime to help him check this adventure off his bucket list. Katie scoured the internets for a good deal. We eventually found a place that'd give us 2 hours of paddle board use for $20 a person. This was technically a Groupon deal, but we've learned over the years that if you just mention their Groupon deal they'll often gladly give you the rate since it means more money for them.

We made our way to Madeira Beach, but not before getting stuck at the Johns Pass bridge coming from Treasure Island. The bridge went up just before we got there. We were probably fourth in line or so. But when the bridge went back down the gates never opened. We waited for a good 15 minutes or so before police showed up to turn traffic around. Luckily there was another way around.

The next adventure was finding the place with the boards. We had an address and assumed there was a shop right off the road to pick up the boards. But as it turns out it was just a guy sitting out under a beach umbrella with a bunch of boards. Once we called him up, he was pretty easy to find. So finally, even after all the delays we got our boards and set out on the very warm gulf waters. 

Kirk and Katie SUPing like champs

One of the highlights was watching Kirk try and try again to stand up on the board. It's not as easy as it looks at first. And even once you do figure out how to balance and stand up, it is tough to get comfortable enough to stay standing for a long time while you paddle your way around. Kirk had many ungraceful falls, but that was better then those who barely stand up and just jump off. Kirk kept his feet on until the last possible second. As a result, most of the time we were out Kirk just used the board in a sitting, kneeling, or laying position. But he did finally get it the second time out right before we were done.

Kirk trying to stand up on his board

After many falls, he was finally successful

Another highlight was while we were coming back from our first round of going up and down the coast, we saw a manatee swimming under the water! Katie and I followed it around for a while and watched it come up several times for air. Given that manatees are such a big deal in this part of Florida, it was really cool to be able to see one.

Proof I was there with Katie

Proof I was there with Kirk

We did take a couple breaks. It is tough to stay standing and constantly paddle your way around. The beach wasn't that enjoyable because it was so crazy hot. But we did have fun playing in the shallow swimming area with a Waboba ball. 

And that was our Florida SUP experience.