South Coast Wakepark

The cable tow cuts across the water with mechanical precision, pulling riders behind it in wide arcs across South Coast Wakepark's lagoon just outside Waterlooville. It's the sort of place where you'll see proper wakeboarders hitting air tricks, but also kids in buoyancy aids getting dragged around for the first time, grinning madly. The park runs a tow system rather than relying on boats, which means you get multiple riders on the water at once - bit more efficient, and frankly more entertaining to watch.

This is genuinely worth stopping for if you've got teenagers who fancy trying something different, or anyone keen to finally have a go at wakeboarding without the four-figure price tag of a private boat session. Beginners are absolutely catered for, though you'll need to be a reasonably confident swimmer. The water's sheltered and managed well, which helps.

Staying nearby at Hayling Island Holiday Park or Mill Rythe Coastal Village puts you within ten minutes, making it easy to slot in a morning or afternoon session without it dominating your day. Rookesbury Park's also close by if you prefer a campsite vibe. The park itself tends to be busiest at weekends and during school holidays, so midweek visits are less hectic if you're not keen on crowds. Allow two to three hours if you're having a go yourself, or an hour just to watch and grab a drink. Worth checking their website for current opening times and pricing before you head over - these things do change seasonally.