From outdoor movies in the park to endless street festivals, Montreal summers are short, sticky, and packed with things to do. But if you’re looking to cool off and try something a little different, stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP) is a solid option.
It’s the kind of activity you’d usually associate with a weekend at the cottage or a quiet lake up north, but luckily, you don’t actually have to leave the city to catch a wave. There are a few spots right here in Montreal where you can rent a board by the hour without spending a ton, with multiple local spots charging less than $30 an hour.
So, whether you’re brand new to SUP or just want to float around for a while, here are four of the cheapest places to rent a paddleboard in and around the city.
Parc Jean-Drapeau (KSF)
Jean-Drapeau’s beach is a great spot to rent a paddleboard without draining your wallet (or gas tank). KSF offers rentals starting at $21.55 an hour, with extra time billed at $8.62 per hour. You can take off from the calm waters right at the beach. And with the metro nearby, you don’t even need a car to get there.
Address: Parc Jean-Drapeau, 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, QC
Rates: $21.55/hour
Parc Jean-Drapeau website
Lachine Canal (Aventures H2O)
Right near the Atwater Market, Aventures H2O has paddleboard rentals starting at about $20 if you book ahead online. The canal is a mellow spot to paddle, and there are plenty of places to grab a snack after. It’s also easy to reach by bike, metro or on foot.
Address: 2727 Rue St. Patrick, Montreal, QC
Rates: $20/30 minutes, $25/hour
Aventures H20 website
Verdun (Espace Navi)
Espace Navi’s Verdun location is another city option for paddleboard rentals, with easy metro access and vast waters along the St. Lawrence. Rates are a bit higher at $28 an hour, but it’s still a convenient and scenic spot if you’re in the area or want to try paddling around Île des Sœurs.
Address: 5150 Boulevard LaSalle, Verdun, QC
Rates: $28/hour
Espace Navi website
Dorval (Dorval SUP)
Dorval SUP offers paddleboard rentals for $50. That may sound expensive, but the board is yours to use for the entire day. Plus it comes equipped with everything you need, like a paddle, pump, life vest, leash, and a waterproof phone pouch.
You’ll need to book at least 48 hours ahead and transport the gear yourself, but it’s a flexible option if you want to paddle at your own pace.
Address: 1695 Chem. du Bord-du-Lac-Lakeshore, Dorval, QC
Rates: $50/day
Dorval SUP website
