Get on the water in West Sussex

With thousands of miles of beautiful coastline in the UK, as well as endless lakes, rivers and reservoirs, it’s no wonder we’ve become a nation of watersport lovers. Last year, the Watersports Participation Survey revealed the massive growth in people taking up activities on the water, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and rowing.

If you’re already into watersports – or are keen to get involved – West Sussex is the perfect place to head to and we’ve highlighted some of the best places for you to dip your toes.

Chichester

You’d be surprised by how many watery activities you can get involved with in this historic city. Chichester Watersports hosts a range of popular aqua activities, including an inflatable Aqua Park floating on its freshwater lake. You can also try wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking at a location surprisingly close to the city centre.

If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, then Chichester Waterski Club is the place for you. Offering both water-skiing and wakeboarding, the club is open to all ages and there’s even an ex-world champion among the instructors waiting to literally show you the ropes.

Stand-up paddleboarding is seen as one of the most accessible and sociable watersports out there. It doesn’t take long to master (you can paddle on your knees if your balance isn’t perfect) and it has some fantastic health benefits, both physical and mental. Chichester’s Surfs Sup Watersports offers lessons in paddleboarding, from beginner level to more advanced sessions. It also offers Wing Sup and Wing Foiling, which are becoming increasingly popular.

If you’d prefer to sit down and admire the scenery, then check out canoeing along the Chichester Canal. Once you have a day ticket or annual licences, you can glide through the stunning South Downs and spot famous Chichester landmarks along the way. You can also hire rowing boats, meaning the whole family can enjoy time out on the water (and you can take turns with the oars!)

Bognor Regis

Bognor Regis is home to a beautiful coastline, so it’s no wonder those who like to sail have fallen in love with the area. The town’s family-orientated sailing club offers a range of courses, designed for the very young right through to the more experienced. Bognor Regis Sailing Club hosts races at the weekend during the sailing season and its cadets offer skills sessions to help younger ones become more confident on the water.

Based in Bognor, Cave Active Adventures also offers an exciting range of outdoor experiences, including stand-up paddle boarding trips and lessons in wing-foiling.

Gosport

Gosport boasts 24 miles of beaches and is famed for its naval heritage, so it’s the perfect place to get involved with any water-based activities. Stokes Bay is a safe, shingle beach that offers a variety of watersports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Stoked Watersports is a great place to get an introduction to the water and set off to admire the Solent coastline.

Prime Paddling has a varied programme of water sessions, both for beginners and those who are more experienced. Summer camps and paddleboarding parties will tempt kids off their devices, while a sunset paddle or kayaking to Portsmouth Harbour – with or without a cocktail – will appeal to the grown-ups.

East and West Wittering

East and West Wittering are gorgeous areas from which to launch a watercraft. In East Wittering, Fluid Adventures is a favoured canoe and kayak specialist. Choose from short taster sessions, day-long trips and seasonal paddle events, including Bonfire Night, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.

The Blue Flag beach of West Wittering is a stunning location to try out any water activities and 2XS is the place to head for windsurfing, kitesurfing and paddleboarding. With a huge range of courses available, you’re sure to find something that’s just right for you – and all while you take in the glorious sandy coastline.

Watersport considerations

• Check ahead to see if you need a day or annual licence for the stretch of water you are using
• Always supervise children on or near the water
• Always wear appropriate clothing and the correct safety gear
• Carry a charged mobile phone in a waterproof case or bag
• It’s advisable to go to out with an instructor or with other people
• If paddling alone, always tell someone your timings and route
• Check the weather, sunset times and tides before your set off
• Consult with Go Paddling and British Canoeing for the latest advice

If you’re considering a move to West Sussex - where you can be fully immersed in our coastline or countryside - please contact White & Brooks for location and property advice.