Washington State is a land of incredible natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience its rugged coastline, placid lakes, and glacier-fed rivers is by kayak or canoe. From orcas swimming off Orcas Island to the historic landing site of Chief Seattle on Point Doughty, follow us as we explore 9 of the best places to kayak in Washington State.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, these stunning locations will make you fall in love with the splendor of this wild and wonderful state.
9 Places to Kayak in Washington State
Obstruction Pass State Park on Orcas Island, WA
If you are looking for some of the best kayaking opportunities in Washington State, then you should consider going to Obstruction Pass State Park on Orcas Island. This is the largest island within the San Juan Islands group and is situated off the coast of Washington. Here, you will find numerous state parks to explore, with hiking trails, lookout points, campgrounds, wildlife reserves and water sports all on offer. This makes it a great outdoor wonderland for locals and visitors alike.
Orcas Island has a perimeter of around 125 miles of coastline which is perfect for kayakers as the waters are calm and make it ideal for beginners. You can also witness a variety of marine life while kayaking, including Orca whales, sea lions and an array of fish. At Obstruction Pass State Park, there are campsites directly on the beach, three buoys to anchor large boats and views of the majestic mountains, thick forests, glacier-fed lakes, and rushing rivers the region has to offer. There are also kayak rentals and tour companies available in nearby Friday Harbor.
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Lake Wenatchee State Park, WA
Lake Wenatchee is one of the top destinations for kayaking in Washington state. Here you will experience beautiful forest-covered mountains and perfectly placid glacier-fed water that perfectly mirrors the sky and mountain. There are also plenty of amenities to take advantage of, such as hiking trails, picnic grounds, bathrooms and a launching dock for kayaks and canoes. On shore, you can also enjoy sunbathing if the weather permits. The lake is ideal for beginner kayakers as there are no fierce currents to battle.
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Point Doughty, Orcas Island, WA
Point Doughty is a 2.5-mile stretch of beach between Alki Point and the mouth of the Duwamish River. This is a popular spot for sunbathing, volleyball games and swimming, but it is also perfect for kayaking. You get the chance to witness incredible views of the Olympic Mountains as well as the bustling boat traffic of Puget Sound.
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Lake Crescent, WA
Lake Crescent is another glacier-fed lake located in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains and is perfect for kayaking. Here, you will be surrounded by panoramic views of the mountains and forest. Plus, plenty of trails and even kayak rentals are available if you don’t have your own.
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Lake Washington, WA
For those who live in or near Seattle and Bellevue, Lake Washington is the ideal day trip for a quick break from city life. Whether you launch from Seattle’s Matthews Beach Park or Bellevue’s Enatai Beach Park, you will be able to explore the Mercer Slough Nature Park and the surrounding area with its abundance of marine and avian wildlife. Plus, there are kayak rentals available at both parks. Just remember to check up on fishing rules and regulations beforehand.
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Puget Sound, WA
The largest and most visited city in Washington State is Seattle, located along the Puget Sound. This picturesque gateway to the Pacific Ocean is home to a variety of protected islands that are full of fascinating wildlife, such as whales, sea otters, and various bird species. Visitors and locals alike are captivated by the natural beauty of the Rockies, featuring majestic mountains, thick forests, glacier-fed lakes, and rushing rivers. Kayaking is one of the popular ways to explore the wildlife and breathtaking views of the state.
Launching from Seattle is made easy at Matthews Beach Park for a unique day trip surrounded by nature. Many different birds and marine species can be found around the Mercer Slough Nature Park in Bellevue, another good starting point for kayaking through Puget Sound. Although paddling on the glassy waters makes for a relaxing outing, it’s important to adhere to the local fishing laws and regulations.
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The Olympics, WA
The majestic Olympic Mountains reside in the heart of Washington State and provide a beautiful backdrop of nature while kayaking. Taking a paddle around Lake Wenatchee is a great way to experience the tranquility of the glassy glacier-fed water, with stunning reflections of the sky and mountains. There are several hiking trails and picnic areas around the lake for visitors to enjoy, as well as the option of camping or sleeping on the boat’s buoy if available.
Point Doughty is another picturesque area to kayak around, located on Orcas Island. A beach that spans 2.5 miles between Alki Point and Duwamish River, this was the historic landing site of the first European settlers and offered breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and the busy boat traffic in Puget Sound.
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Friday Harbor in San Juan Island, WA
Friday Harbor serves as the main town of the San Juan Islands and is a great base camp for kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to numerous state parks, there are plenty of places to explore, full of hiking trails, campgrounds, lookout points, and wildlife reserves. The waters around these islands are the natural habitat of the magnificent Orca whales, providing amazing scenes of the animals swimming and jumping passionately in the deep blue Pacific Ocean.
Lake Crescent is another great spot to explore by kayak for those wishing to stay on the mainland. Located in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains, this glacier-fed lake provides astounding panoramic views of the forest and mountains mirrored in perfectly calm waters. Numerous hiking trails branch off from the lake shore or where the kayak rentals can be found.
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Mercer Slough Nature Park, WA
Located in the heart of Bellevue, Mercer Slough Nature Park is a great spot for a nature day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Launch your kayak from Enatai Beach Park, surrounded by vivid wildlife and enjoy the peacefulness of the surrounding nature. Whether you’re looking for a lazy day out on the lake or an adrenaline-filled adventure on the raging whitewater of the rivers, Washington State has it all.
Blake Island Marine State Park is another great destination for kayaking in Washington State, located between Seattle and Bainbridge Island in Puget Sound. The Miles and Isabel Moyer of Blake Island State Park offers kayakers the opportunity to explore the island’s beaches, forests, and of course, the vibrant wildlife that inhabits the island. Unfortunately, camping is not offered in the park, so make sure you plan accordingly.
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Conclusion
From paddling in the majestic mountains of the Rockies to exploring the coastline of Orcas Island and the Pacific Ocean, Washington State is the perfect location for a kayaking adventure. With kayak rentals and tour companies in various locations, finding a place that fits your desires is easy.
Whether it’s spending time in the forest-covered mountains of Lake Wenatchee or admiring the beautiful Seattle skyline along Lake Union, there are many great places to kayak in Washington State. So, if you’re looking for an outdoor escape, grab your kayak and explore the wonders of Washington.