Called the "Stand Up Paddle Surfing," this activity is a marine sport which originated in Hawaii. In Japan, it is called by its acronym, SUP.

A SUP paddler stands on a large, buoyant board, and moves across the water surface while paddling.

SUP has gained popularity in Japan recently, and can be enjoyed in oceans, lakes, ponds, rivers, pools, and any other bodies of water. SUP can also be enjoyed in many forms which you can try, including but not limited to, cruising, racing, fishing, riding waves, yoga, SUP polo, and river rafting.

Seeing the coral reefs and tropical fish from directly above as you take a stroll on the surface of Okinawa’s beautiful, clear ocean has a different form of striking beauty compared to diving, snorkeling, or surfing.

When the wind stops and the water is clear, giving the ocean surface an oily texture, you have the sensation that you are flying in the air.

Moreover, cruising during sunrise and sunset is exceptional. The silhouette of a figure cruising on SUP against the rosy ocean and sky is striking. The cool darkness of the night sets up a calming atmosphere.

The healing power of Mother Nature. You will be touched and enveloped in emotions of happiness, excitement, along with a reverence and appreciation for nature like never before.

The great thing about stand up paddle (SUP) is that anybody can enjoy this activity, no matter what age or gender, from healthy adults to children to the elderly.

You will be supported by instructors with lots of maritime experience who will ensure your safety!
The lectures at the school are detailed, containing thorough instructions on how to use the paddle, safety precautions, and danger prevention.

We are also equipped with floating equipment, such as life vests.

Surfing lessons with SUP are limited to those who can paddle steadily, can control the direction, and can stay balanced and standing on the ocean surface with rolling waves. Please ask the staff directly about the lessons.

We will take you to sea areas that are not as likely to be affected by the wind and strong currents.
Moreover, depending on the climate, there may be times when you cannot come back to the shore from the water due to strong currents caused by sudden winds on the sea surface.

You should especially be careful when there are strong winds blowing from the shore to the ocean.
Please, never do SUP alone at a sea area that you have never been to, unless you have a guide.

At our shop, we will update you with information on the best sea locations of that day, so please feel free to contact us. Moreover, you may not be able to do SUP without permission in sea areas which are supervised, such as beaches or fishing ports. Please contact the beach supervisor or fishermen’s union before enjoying SUP.

You should come prepared with 3 main items: the board, leash, and paddle.
SUP has many diverse forms and variations which you can enjoy.

If you would like to race or surf, you will need to purchase a board that is specific to racing or surfing.

There are various types of boards, such as inflatable boards that you can blow into, boards similar to surfer boards with foam added to the core material and hardened with glass fiber cloth, and boards that are extremely light because they are made with carbon material.
As for the size, boards should be long for racing and cruising, and boards for surfing should get shorter as you level up.

It is also important to store the boards properly. If you live in an apartment building where you need to place the board in an elevator, then you will not be able to purchase a long board that does not fit. Even if you are using stairs you must be mindful of the board’s size. However, if you use a buoyant, small, short board, you will not be able to stand and paddle at the same time, and forcing yourself to paddle may put too much strain on your body.
You will also need to choose a paddle or a leash to fit your purposes.

You should choose your board carefully, considering in what scenes you would like to enjoy SUP, how often you will visit the beach and how SUP fits with your lifestyle.
At YES SURF, experienced and knowledgeable staff will help you choose your board. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.

SUP First Step Class School (Cruising)

About the School

Basic knowledge and practical skills are a part of the curriculum, including how to use your paddle, how to effectively paddle, names for the boards, how to use handle the equipment, how to change directions, how to safely fall in the water, danger avoidance, and information about maritime safety.

You will try actually paddling on the ocean surface, and as you improve, we may ask you to paddle a little further.
Meanwhile, you will land on a deserted island to enjoy activities such as snorkeling before returning back to shore.

Although SUP seems to be an elegant activity of calmly cruising on the ocean’s surface, paddling for an hour and a half is just as much exercise as a light jog or a walk, and you will end up sweating a lot.

By using the paddle, you can effectively train all external and internal muscles in your body by training not only large upper body muscles such as shoulders and the back, but also your lower body and core by balancing on an unsteady board that is floating on the ocean surface.

SUP Cruising Guide

About the Guide

An instructor will study that day’s weather, wind, current, and how the waves are rolling in, before leading you to the best sea area or course.
Meanwhile, you will land on a deserted island and enjoy activities such as snorkeling before returning back to shore.

If you are lucky, you may encounter a school of fish, turtles, a school of squid, sea snakes, mozuku seaweed, or sea lettuce.

Please enjoy the clear oceans of Okinawa to your heart’s content. Okinawa is filled with beautiful nature– a treasure chest of wonderful life forms.

At YES SURF, staff members who are certified paddle fitness instructors will prepare for you a fun, safe stand up paddle trial cruising course. We are looking forward to your participation!