When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
SUP Pups
Why SUP Pups is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
SUP Pups offers a unique and unforgettable way to enjoy paddle boarding with your dog in beautiful San Diego. Founded by Samantha and her rescue dog Jack, this women-owned business specializes in private and group paddle board lessons that are designed to be safe, fun, and inclusive for all skill levels, from first-timers to advanced paddlers. What sets SUP Pups apart is their focus on creating a supportive environment where owners and their dogs can bond on the water while learning paddle boarding techniques. The company also offers tailored lessons including beginner basics, inflatable board setup, advanced footwork, race technique, and kid-friendly classes, ensuring there is something for everyone. Beyond just instruction, SUP Pups provides a full photoshoot experience on the water, capturing memorable moments of you and your pup. Their mission is to foster joy and connection through this shared hobby, making it an ideal spot for friends, families, and dog lovers to meet up and enjoy quality time outdoors surrounded by San Diego’s stunning natural scenery.
Here's what people think of SUP Pups
As of recent, SUP Pups holds a 5-star rating based on 516 reviews.
Customers consistently praise SUP Pups for its exceptional instructor Samantha, noting her patience, professionalism, and ability to accommodate both dogs and owners new to paddle boarding. Many reviews highlight the fun and relaxing atmosphere Samantha creates, which helps nervous dogs gain confidence. Guests appreciate the personalized attention given, as instructors prioritize the comfort and safety of each pup, often allowing dogs to move freely between boards. Positive reviews often mention the beautiful views encountered during sessions, impressive photography provided, and the heartwarming experience of bonding with their dogs. However, no significant negative reviews appear in customer feedback, suggesting a high level of satisfaction. Overall, the overwhelming positive reviews reinforce SUP Pups as a must-do activity for dog owners seeking a memorable and enjoyable outdoor adventure in San Diego, where expert guidance and warm hospitality meet in a unique, dog-friendly paddleboarding experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melanie 1989
I found Sup Pups when I was searching for things to do with my pup while visiting San Diego. This one popped right up and after reading so many 5 star reviews (even on YouTube) I decided to book. I cannot express how awesome this experience was. From booking to the end, the process was incredibly easy and the instructions are thorough. But the real gem, is Sam!! I have an English bull terrier who has severe anxiety and can be temperamental depending on the day. My dog was experiencing anxiety upon arrival but by the end she was enjoying a pup cup and giving kisses. Sam walked us through the whole process since we are beginners and really just went with the vibe so that Priscilla, our dog, could enjoy the experience as well. Sam's calm and easygoing nature made everything an experience that I would pay for over and over again. She even had me relaxed and I was able to be present and in the moment. This was an awesome experience and I am definitely coming back with my pup! P.s. Sam takes awesome pictures and videos so you can fully enjoy the experience 😁
Elisar El- Gaouny
Sam is such a spectacular and radiant instructor! We booked a sunset session for a family of 4 and 3 dogs. We had such an amazing, fun, and easy going time. Not only does Sam walk you through how to utilize the paddle board, but she is constantly giving tips throughout the session as well. She’s also very sensitive to the needs of your dogs and is great with making them feel comfortable on the paddleboard with you. My dogs all had an amazing time with no issues whatsoever. I would 100% recommend this for anyone who enjoys SUP or wants to do a water activity with their fur babies. 10000/10 experience
Nichole C
Sam is a wonderful instructor! I had a great (and successful) time getting my 85lb Great Dane Mix senior dog on a paddle board who has never been on one. I’ll definitely be back and have recommended SUP PUPS to all my dog owning friends.
Anna Armas
We had such a fantastic experience with Sam at SUP Pups and cannot stop raving about it! We took our two dogs - an older Boxer and young Lab - and she was able to cater to both of their personalities while still giving excellent guidance and keeping us all safe. Sam has such a gift for teaching - she keeps her cool while still being incredibly fun! I cannot recommend this experience enough, and we are so excited to go again.
Elizabeth Cieszko
What an amazing experience all around – I could honestly cry happy tears. My senior lab mix (~15 years old) had been battling cancer, and this adventure has been high on our "bucket list" for a while. Given the deterioration in strength in his hind quarters and recent balance issues, I was quite nervous to try stand up paddle boarding. I figured we’d give it a shot but fully expected he might not feel comfortable. Worst case, we'd at least leave happy knowing we tried. However, to my surprise, George walked right onto the board without hesitation. Sam was incredible — so calm, cool, confident, and engaged. She made us feel completely at ease from the moment we arrived. At one point during the paddle, George was so at ease he even fell fast asleep right on the paddle board and took a little snooze LOL. If you’re hesitant at all about trying this with your dog, I hope this helps reassure you: you don’t need to be. It was truly a blast and Sam captured some great photo memories we’ll cherish forever. Thank you, Sam!
How to reach SUP Pups
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Why SUP Pups may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at SUP Pups with your friends?
Gathering your friends at SUP Pups is an exceptional way to create unforgettable memories together while enjoying a unique outdoor adventure. This small, women-owned business offers a welcoming and fun experience that perfectly blends physical activity, nature, and quality social time. Whether your group consists of avid paddlers, dog lovers, or first-timers eager for something new, SUP Pups caters to all skill levels by providing expert instruction in paddleboarding with dogs. The vibrant community atmosphere and stunning waterfront setting in Liberty Station Point Loma, San Diego, further enhance the appeal—making it easy for everyone to relax, connect, and have a blast. Plus, it’s a rare chance to bond not only with your friends but also with their furry companions in a safe, supportive environment where each participant’s comfort is prioritized. The added bonus of professional photography capturing those candid moments on the water guarantees that your group will leave with not just memories but also beautiful keepsakes. Rallying here means more than just meeting up—it’s about sharing an extraordinary, inclusive experience that strengthens friendships through joyful, shared achievement and outdoor fun.
What activities are offered at SUP Pups perfect for a group meetup?
SUP Pups specializes in teaching both dogs and their owners how to stand-up paddleboard (SUP) together, making this an activity that uniquely combines water sports and pet bonding. The core offering is private and group paddleboarding lessons where everyone, regardless of prior experience, can comfortably learn the basics of balance, paddling technique, and dog handling on the boards. The expert instructors, led by Samantha—the founder and a seasoned professional—ensure that lessons proceed at a pace suited to both nervous beginners and confident paddlers, making it an encouraging environment for groups to share. Aside from paddleboarding, the experience includes guided SUP tours that explore the scenic coastline of San Diego, allowing participants to soak in incredible views and possibly spot local wildlife like sea lions, which adds an exciting element to the adventure. The water-based activities are varied, including the option for dogs to swim, relax on boards, or move between boards freely, making it flexible and entertaining for groups with pets of different personalities. Beyond the water, SUP Pups fosters a community vibe with occasional fundraisers and adoption paddles that groups can participate in, enhancing the sense of shared purpose and good will. This variety ensures that everyone can find something enjoyable while strengthening connections through a novel, active, and social experience.
Why is SUP Pups ideal for dogs and their owners in a group setting?
SUP Pups is uniquely tailored to accommodate dogs and their owners together, which makes it the ideal venue for groups wanting to include their pets in outings. Since 2014, the business has built a reputation for specialized care and methods that prioritize safety, patience, and building confidence—not only for humans but for dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and even those with special needs. Groups benefit from this because it removes the stress or worry about how a pet might react to paddleboarding; the expert coaching ensures everyone feels comfortable trying something new without pressure. The supportive approach and small class sizes mean dogs are eased into the activity gradually, creating a calm, enjoyable atmosphere for pets and their owners alike. This makes it especially appealing for groups of friends or families who want to make the day about togetherness and inclusion, honoring bonds beyond just people. Additionally, the business’s experience with rescue dogs and their commitment to helping shelters shows a deeper level of care and community involvement, which resonates well with groups that value responsible pet ownership and social impact. The opportunity to paddleboard alongside your four-legged friends fosters a unique form of connection that combines physical exercise with emotional bonding, ensuring that everyone, two-legged and four-legged, has a memorable, happy experience.
What amenities and extras make SUP Pups a great meetup location?
Beyond the core paddleboarding lessons and tours, SUP Pups offers amenities and extras that significantly enhance the meetup experience, creating a seamless and convenient day out for groups. One standout feature is the professional photography service included during lessons and tours. This means your group doesn’t have to worry about capturing the moment—skilled photographers take high-quality action shots of you and your dog enjoying the water, which are sent to you afterward as lasting mementos. Such a service is rare in outdoor activities and adds a premium feel, perfectly suited for groups celebrating special occasions or simply wanting to treasure their time together. The location itself—Liberty Station in Point Loma—is easily accessible and surrounded by beautiful scenery, picnic areas, and other local attractions, which means your group can extend the day with lakeside socializing or exploring the neighborhood after paddleboarding. The small business atmosphere also means personalized customer service where questions and special requests are welcomed, ensuring your group feels prioritized and well cared for. Lastly, the company’s involvement in charitable events and opportunities to participate in community fundraisers adds a meaningful layer to your day, letting groups combine fun with support for dog rescues and adoption activities, lending a purposeful, community-centered backdrop to your meetup.
How does SUP Pups accommodate beginners and different group sizes?
SUP Pups excels in welcoming paddlers of all skill and comfort levels, including complete beginners, which is critical for group meetups where participants may vary widely in experience. Their teaching approach is patient, step-by-step, and tailored to each dog and owner’s needs, making sure no one feels overwhelmed or rushed. The instructor Samantha and her team are praised for their ability to calm nervous dogs and inexperienced owners alike, gradually building confidence so that everyone can enjoy the activity fully. Group lessons are arranged to maintain manageable class sizes so that individual attention is never lost, allowing participants to support and learn from each other in a friendly atmosphere. For larger groups, SUP Pups offers both private lessons and group paddling sessions that encourage camaraderie, enabling friends and family to bond through shared learning and adventure. The flexible format means groups can mix and match tandem board setups (one dog and one person, or two dogs on one board) to suit their members and animals. This personalized instruction combined with a supportive group dynamic ensures inclusivity and maximizes fun for groups of varying sizes and experience levels.
Why is SUP Pups a community-focused business you can trust for your gatherings?
SUP Pups is more than just a paddleboarding company; it is a deeply community-rooted business with a mission that resonates beyond recreation, enhancing its credibility and appeal as a meetup venue. Founded by Samantha inspired by her rescue dog Jack, the business embodies compassion, education, and social contribution. Since its start in 2014, SUP Pups has not only taught thousands how to paddleboard with their dogs but also actively engaged in fundraising for dog rescues and shelters, sometimes hosting special adoption paddles that give rescue dogs unique exposure to find forever homes. This level of community involvement shows customers that SUP Pups cares about the wellbeing of dogs and their families holistically, not just as clients. Reviews consistently highlight the professionalism, kindness, and personalized care offered by the team, reinforcing a trustworthy atmosphere for groups seeking a safe, supportive environment. Choosing SUP Pups for your meetup means supporting a women-owned small business committed to quality, compassion, and building a like-minded community, making your gathering feel meaningful as well as enjoyable.
What can groups expect from the overall atmosphere and environment at SUP Pups?
Groups visiting SUP Pups can expect an atmosphere that is simultaneously energetic and relaxed, fostering camaraderie and fun while respecting each individual's pace and comfort. The outdoor, waterfront setting at Liberty Station naturally inspires calmness and connection with nature, providing a refreshing backdrop that contrasts invitingly with urban life. The friendly and skilled instructors contribute to a warm, open vibe where questions, laughter, and encouragement are abundant, making it easy for group members to bond over shared learning curves and successes. Dogs add playful energy to the environment, swimming alongside boards or lounging contentedly, which brings an element of pure joy and spontaneity that groups particularly appreciate. The occasional presence of local wildlife like sea lions adds to the unique and memorable experience of the location. Because SUP Pups is a small business, the environment does not feel crowded or impersonal, allowing groups to feel like they are part of a special community event rather than a commercial mass activity. This balance of adventure and relaxation creates an inviting space where friends and families can deepen their relationships through meaningful, enjoyable moments on the water.
How does SUP Pups enhance safety and comfort for group participants?
Safety and comfort are core priorities for SUP Pups, especially important for groups with mixed skill levels and dogs of different temperaments. The team ensures all participants wear appropriate gear, including life vests designed for humans and dogs, and teaches proper paddling and stability techniques to minimize risks on the water. The step-by-step lesson plans begin with shore-based introductions before progressing to the water, allowing both dogs and their owners to acclimate comfortably. Instructors constantly monitor the group, providing hands-on assistance as needed and adapting activities based on individual progress and comfort. Dogs are never forced into any activity; instead, positive reinforcement methods are used to encourage participation at a pace that suits them. By fostering an environment where caution meets fun, SUP Pups builds trust and confidence, ensuring that each meetup is a safe and enjoyable adventure for everyone involved.
What is the booking process like for groups wanting to meet at SUP Pups?
Booking a group experience at SUP Pups is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, making it easy to organize your meetup without hassle. Interested parties can easily reserve private or group paddleboarding lessons through their official website, where detailed information about times, pricing, and class formats is available. The small-business nature of SUP Pups means spaces can fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date and time, especially for larger groups or special events. The instructors are also approachable for direct communication to accommodate specific requests or questions, which helps tailor your booking to your group’s unique needs. Payment options are flexible, and cancellations or changes are managed with fair policies to provide peace of mind. This smooth booking experience, combined with attentive customer service, ensures your group can focus on enjoying the upcoming adventure rather than logistical headaches.
Why is SUP Pups a memorable and worthwhile meetup destination compared to other options?
Compared to other social or outdoor meetup venues, SUP Pups stands out due to its blend of physical activity, pet inclusion, expert instruction, professional photography, and strong community engagement. It offers a unique adventure that is equally accessible and thrilling for a variety of participants, especially for dog owners who rarely find safe, welcoming activities tailored specifically to their needs. The personal attention from experienced instructors combined with a friendly, supportive environment ensures that everyone leaves feeling accomplished and connected. The opportunity to explore San Diego’s beautiful waterfront, coupled with the chance to see wildlife and participate in a meaningful community, transforms a simple meetup into an event that enriches relationships and personal wellbeing. Whether celebrating a birthday, reunion, or simply a fun weekend outing, SUP Pups delivers more than just entertainment—it cultivates lasting memories and a sense of belonging that few other venues can match. This makes it an outstanding choice for groups looking to elevate their social gatherings with a special, rewarding experience.