Seals & SUP & Surfing: A Guide to Playful Encounters in the Wild

One of the great joys of surfing and stand-up paddling is the opportunity to interact with nature. Whether it’s gliding across crystal-clear waters, feeling the rhythm of the ocean, or encountering wildlife up close, these moments create truly unforgettable experiences. Among the many creatures you may come across, seals are some of the most curious and playful.

The waters surrounding the UK and Ireland are home to thriving populations of grey seals and common seals, offering paddlers and surfers incredible wildlife encounters. These inquisitive marine mammals often interact with water sports enthusiasts, sometimes playfully approaching boards or swimming alongside them.

Where to Find Seals in the UK & Ireland

Seals are commonly spotted along the coastlines of Cornwall, Devon, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, particularly in areas like Ireland’s Eye near Dublin and the Cornish coast. These locations are known for their seal colonies, where paddlers and surfers frequently report close encounters.

Seals can sometimes be found in inland waters in the UK, particularly in estuaries and rivers connected to the sea. Common (harbour) seals and grey seals have been spotted venturing inland, often following fish or exploring quieter waterways.

For example, seals have been seen in the River Thames, with some even making their way as far upstream as Teddington Lock. Similarly, seals have been spotted in Scottish lochs and estuaries, such as the River Dee and River Tay.

Are there Seals in Other Countries?

Yes! Seals are found in many countries across the world, primarily in coastal regions and colder waters. They inhabit both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, with species adapted to different environments.

Where Are Seals Found?

• Arctic & Antarctic – Many seal species, including ringed seals, Weddell seals, and leopard seals, thrive in icy waters.
  

• North America – Seals are common along the coasts of Canada and the United States, particularly in Alaska and New England.
  

• Europe – Norway, and Iceland have large seal populations, including grey seals and harbour seals.
  

• Asia – Seals can be found in Russia, Japan, and China, particularly in colder coastal regions.
  

• Africa – The Cape fur seal is native to the coast of South Africa and Namibia.
  

• Australia & New Zealand – Species like the Australian fur seal and New Zealand sea lion inhabit these waters.   In Australia they can be found in the coastline of South Australia (SA) and Western Australia (WA).  But seals also found in NSW, south coast near Narooma.  Or Seal Rocks, norther of Sydney.   You might even spot seals in Sydney Harbour or along the Sydney coastline, as they occasionally venture into more urban waters. 

Freshwater Seals - Interestingly, some seals even live in freshwater environments, such as Lake Baikal in Russia, home to the Baikal seal, one of the only freshwater seal species.

How Playful Are Seals?

Seals are naturally inquisitive and often approach stand-up paddlers and surfers out of curiosity.

Some have been known to:

• Swim alongside boards, mimicking movements.
  

• Pop up unexpectedly, startling paddlers with a loud snort.
  

• Playfully nudge boards, testing reactions.
  

• Jump onto SUP boards, occasionally hitching a ride.

While these interactions can be magical, it’s important to remember that seals are wild animals and should be treated with respect.

What to Do If a Seal Gets Close

If a seal approaches you while paddling or surfing:

• Stay calm and enjoy the moment—seals are generally non-aggressive.
  

• Give them space and let them decide how the interaction unfolds.
  

• Avoid touching or feeding them, as this can disrupt their natural behavior.
  

• If a seal jumps onto your board, gently move away and wait for it to leave.
  

• Keep dogs away from seals on land, as they can frighten pups and cause distress.

What to Do If You See a Seal Pup on Land

Seal pups are often found resting on beaches or rocky shorelines, especially during the pupping seasons for grey seals (autumn and winter) and common seals (spring and summer). If you encounter a seal pup:

• Do not approach—seals are easily stressed, and human interaction can cause harm.
  

• Keep your distance—at least 100 meters if possible, especially if the pup is alone.
  

• Do not attempt to move it—mother seals often leave their pups temporarily and will return.
  

• Keep dogs on a leash—loose dogs can frighten or harm seal pups.

Seals in Distress

There are times when seals are obviously injured or have fishing lines wrapped around them. 

If you spot a seal on the beach that is looking thinner than you might expect, having trouble breathing, any obvious wounds or entanglement, or has been left alone for more than 4 hours, contact a local wildlife rescue organization like the UK Cornish Seal Sanctuary - which rehabilitates injured pups.  They have teams can send a trained marine mammal medic out to assess  the pup and see if it needs assistance.

Do not approach or attempt to remove any material that they may be caught in, the expert team members will be able to remove this safely and carefully.

Protecting Seals

Encounters with seals can be awe-inspiring, offering a rare glimpse into their playful and curious nature.

By respecting their space and observing them responsibly, paddlers and surfers can enjoy these interactions while ensuring the well-being of these incredible marine mammals.

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