Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the Olympic Peninsula is an unforgettable journey through pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes, where adventure and nature converge in perfect harmony.
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Right Smart Cove - Brinnon
Welcome to the Olympic Peninsula, a breathtaking haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, this pristine paradise offers a multitude of opportunities for adventure, and one of the most exhilarating ways to explore its natural beauty is through kayaking and paddleboarding. As you dip your paddle into the cool, crystal-clear waters of the Olympic Peninsula, you'll be greeted by an unparalleled sense of tranquility and wonder. The rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and mirror-like lakes create a kaleidoscope of stunning landscapes, all waiting to be discovered from the vantage point of your kayak or paddleboard.
PLEASE NOTE:
As you hit the water, remember these crucial safety tips:
Tides: Check tide charts! Know when high and low tides occur to avoid strong currents and challenging paddling conditions.
Weather: Stay updated on weather forecasts. Sudden storms can be dangerous. Dress in layers for changing conditions.
Cold Water: Cold water can be deceiving. Always wear a PFD (life jacket) and dress for immersion. Hypothermia is a real risk.
Safety first! Enjoy your paddle adventure while staying informed and prepared.
There are some laws that apply to watersports in Washington State:
All vessels, including canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, to have at least one properly fitted Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board.
All paddlers are to carry a sound-producing device, such as a whistle – even on a stand-up paddleboard.
For more information on Washington State paddle sports check ----> HERE.
Here are some of the safety items we use when go kayaking or paddleboarding on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula:
State Parks require a Discover Pass - Get Yours ----> HERE.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the East Side (Hood Canal) of the Olympic Peninsula
One of the treasures of the Olympic Peninsula and one of our favorite places to kayak is the beautiful Hood Canal. The Hood Canal is actually a Fjord, which is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by a glacier. Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Hood Canal gives you the chance to witness its vibrant marine life up close. Keep your eyes peeled for curious seals, playful porpoises, massive bald eagles, and a variety of shorebirds, and if you are lucky you may even spot a pod of orcas! The crystal-clear waters of the Hood Canal, reveal a mesmerizing underwater world, where you might catch glimpses of colorful sea anemones, starfish lounging on rocks, crabs scuttling along the seabed, and schools of salmon swimming by. As you navigate the Hood Canal's emerald waters, you'll find a sense of serenity and connection with the wild that's hard to come by elsewhere. Whether you're an experienced kayaker or paddleboarder or a novice looking to explore, the Hood Canal beckons you to discover its secrets, one paddle stroke at a time. So, grab your kayak or paddleboard and let the Hood Canal's beauty grab a hold of you in an adventure you'll treasure forever.
Mount Jupiter from the Duckabush River Tidelands.
Places to Rent Kayaks and Paddleboards on the East Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Hoodsport Wellness - Hoodsport
Hood Canal Adventures - Brinnon
Port Ludlow Resort - Port Ludlow
Want to buy a Kayak or Paddleboard instead of renting one?
Get your Kayak ----> HERE.
Get your Paddleboard ----> HERE.
Point Whitney - Brinnon
Best Places to Launch Kayaks and Paddleboards on the Hood Canal:
Lilliwaup Tidelands State Park (Beautiful area but does have stairs).
Yelivik’s Beach - Hood Canal Adventures. (Day Pass Required)
Best Lakes for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the East Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Lake Kokanee (Hoodsport Wellness offers delivery or guided tours to Lake Kokanee.)
Lake Cushman (Skokomish Park - Day Pass Required) (Lake Cushman Corridor - Certain areas of the lake require a Discover Pass or NW Forest Pass.)
Lake Cushman from Mount Ellinor.
Our Top Pick for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on The East Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Jackson Cove
Best Time To Visit for Eagle Watching: Mid May Through July
While kayaking or paddleboarding in this area you may encounter various bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons, soaring through the skies or hunting for fish. Also, Jackson Cove's waters are inhabited by a variety of marine life, such as seals, sea otters, harbor porpoises and possibly orcas, making it a great location for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This place is so amazing for wildlife! For more information on kayaking or paddleboarding to Jackson Cove check out ----> Hood Canal Adventures.
Crabbing from a kayak can be an exciting family adventure on the Olympic Peninsula, some of the items we use for these activities are:
Kayak Crab Pot from McKay Shrimp and Crab Gear - Get Yours ----> HERE.
NOTE: A Shellfish License is Required - Get Yours ----> HERE.
To See Washington's Shellfishing Regulations - Click ----> HERE.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the North Side (Strait of Juan de Fuca) of the Olympic Peninsula
Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Strait of Juan de Fuca on the North side of the Olympic Peninsula offers an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning natural beauty. Paddlers can explore the pristine waters of the strait while taking in breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains to the south and Vancouver Island to the north. This area's diverse marine life, including seals, whales, and seabirds, adds to the allure of this kayaking or paddleboarding experience. Whether you're a seasoned or a novice, the Strait of Juan de Fuca provides an opportunity to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest's coastal splendor and beauty.
Mount Baker from North Beach County Park (Glass Beach) - Port Townsend
Places to Rent Kayaks on the North Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Elevate Outdoors - Port Angeles (No kayaks available, only paddleboards and they can only be used at Lake Crescent and Lake Sutherland.) (Shuttle Service Available)
Transporting Kayaks and Paddleboards can be a challenge, to make it easy for us we use:
Ediz Hook - Port Angeles
Best Places to Launch Kayaks on the North Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Sequim - Dungeness Landing County Park or Cline Split County Park
Harborview Park on Ediz Hook
Salt Creek Recreation Area (No boat launch but is a beautiful area)
Best Lakes for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the North Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Lake Crescent from the Fairholme Campground.
Our Top Pick for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on The North Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Dungeness Bay
Best Time To Visit for Bird Watching: September Through October.
While kayaking in the Dungeness Spit area, you'll have the opportunity to witness a rich diversity of wildlife, including harbor seals, seabirds, migratory waterfowl, and even the occasional gray whale during their migrations. The pristine coastal habitat provides a captivating backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
In September through October the weather may remain pleasant on most days and you'll experience fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. It's also a time when bird migration is in full swing, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Best Bird Watching items for use at Dungeness Bay:
Check out this cool article from Adventures Northwest about kayaking the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge ----> HERE.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the West Side (Pacific Ocean) of the Olympic Peninsula
Kayaking or Paddleboarding along the Pacific Coast of the Olympic Peninsula offers an awe-inspiring adventure, where rugged coastline, towering sea stacks, and lush forests create an unforgettable backdrop. Kayak fishing on Washington's Olympic Coast is a popular activity and is a thrilling and rewarding experience for anglers who enjoy a combination of stunning scenery and excellent fishing opportunities. Whether you're seeking serene paddling or thrilling surf, this coastal region provides diverse kayaking and paddleboarding experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Rialto Beach - La Push
Places to Rent Kayaks and Paddleboards on the West Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Ozette Kayak Rentals - Clallam Bay (Delivery Available)
South Beach, Kalaloch Beach, Ruby Beach
Best Places to Launch Kayaks on the West Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Best Lakes for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the West Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Lake Ozette - (Ozette Ranger Station or Swan Bay) (National Park Pass Required)
Lake Quinault - (Willaby Campground Fri-Sun - Day Pass Required- Get Yours from The Rainforest Resort or Quinault Mercantile)
Our Top Pick for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on The West Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Quillayute River
Best Time To Visit: Late Spring Through Early Fall
The Quillayute River, nestled on the west side of the Olympic Peninsula, is not only a picturesque waterway but also a haven for paddle enthusiasts. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich ecosystem, this river flows gracefully through dense forests before gently emptying into the Pacific Ocean near the coastal town of La Push. While renowned for its vital role in supporting various salmon species during their spawning journeys, the Quillayute River offers a tranquil setting for kayakers and paddleboarders to immerse themselves in its serene waters. Paddling along its meandering course allows enthusiasts to not only savor the breathtaking scenery but also witness the diverse wildlife that calls this river home. Furthermore, the Quillayute River and its surrounding area hold deep cultural significance for the Quileute Tribe, whose ancestral lands encompass this scenic river, making it a place of historical, cultural, and now recreational importance for kayaking and paddleboarding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Want to fish on the Quileute? Get your fishing accessories below:
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the South Side ( Aberdeen ) of the Olympic Peninsula
The south side of the Olympic Peninsula, encompassing areas like Pacific Beach, Ocean Shores, and Aberdeen, presents a dynamic blend of coastal charm and inland tranquility. Pacific Beach and Ocean Shores offer miles of sandy coastline along the Pacific Ocean, where visitors can indulge in beachcombing, kite flying, or simply relishing the soothing sound of ocean waves. Surrounded by lush forests, it's a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter natural retreat. Visitors can explore museums, waterfront parks, and nearby attractions while soaking in the area's unique cultural heritage. This region of the Olympic Peninsula showcases the diverse range of experiences one can have, from the rugged coastal beauty to the tranquil inland waters, all steeped in the rich history and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
Places to Rent Kayaks and Paddleboards on the South Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Canoe Dude - Ocean Shores
Best Places to Launch Kayaks on the South Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Best Lakes for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the South Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
Duck Lake - North Bay Park, Chinook City Park, Bill Ellis Park
Grand Canal (Can also be accessed from Duck Lake) - Texmar Park, South End Canal Park
Our Top Pick for Kayaking and Paddleboarding on The South Side of the Olympic Peninsula:
The Hoquiam River, The Chehalis River, and The Wishkah River
Best Time To Visit: Late Spring Through Early Fall
While paddleboarding might not be accessible at all the river locations, kayaking on the Hoquiam River, the Chehalis River, and the Wishkah River offers an invigorating journey through the heart of the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. The Hoquiam River meanders gently through lush forests, providing paddlers with a serene and picturesque experience. As you glide along the Chehalis River, you'll encounter a harmonious blend of peaceful stretches and gentle rapids, making it suitable for both novice and experienced kayakers. The Wishkah River, on the other hand, presents a more adventurous challenge with its thrilling rapids and narrow passages, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. These three rivers collectively offer a diverse range of kayaking or paddleboarding experiences, allowing enthusiasts to explore the region's pristine landscapes while catering to various skill levels and preferences.
Washington State Waters are Cold! Keep Warm and Safe on the Water with These:
Ultimately, paddle sports on the Olympic Peninsula offer an unparalleled opportunity to forge a profound connection with nature and embark on a journey through the diverse waterways of this stunning region. Whether your heart leans toward kayaking or paddleboarding, there's a perfect avenue for everyone to explore. From the tranquil embrace of freshwater lakes to the meandering embrace of rivers and the awe-inspiring vastness of coastal waters, the Olympic Peninsula offers a diverse array of paddling adventures. Along the way, you may cross paths with eagles soaring gracefully above, seals frolicking in the waves, or even catch a glimpse of a distant whale breaching the surface. In essence, paddle sports on the Olympic Peninsula offer a unique gateway to unraveling the wonders of this corner of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a newcomer eager to dip your paddle into these enchanting waters, the Olympic Peninsula's offerings promise to leave an unforgettable mark, fostering not only a deep appreciation for its natural splendors but also creating cherished memories amidst the captivating landscapes and vibrant ecosystems that define this remarkable region. It's an opportunity to commune with nature, test your limits, and craft enduring memories that will forever be etched in the fabric of your Olympic Peninsula adventure.
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