Kayaking Washington’s Puget Sound – 7 Best Spots To Explore

Whether you’re looking to get out of Seattle and experience nature, kayak with whales, or explore from Olympia your destination is the same: the Puget Sound.

The Puget Sound has been drawing paddlers in for (literally) hundreds of years.

These days this means that there are plenty of places on the Puget Sound where you can rent a kayak for the day (or week), charter a kayak tour, or drop in your own kayak.

But should you? Are there better around Seattle to kayak?

I’ll just cut to the chase and say that you should kayak the Sound because there aren’t any better places. However, I’ve still got your covered on the rest of the questions you’re likely to have. Let’s start at the very beginning.

Can You Kayak In The Puget Sound?

The Puget Sound is a huge expanse of water the beckons to any kayaker who sees it. All the nooks and crannies on its 1,332 miles of coastline are just begging to be explored.

But it is safe?

In general, you’ll be as safe kayaking in the Puget Sound as you would be on any other body of water. While there are deep water areas that are frequented by large boats and ferries you are unlikely to stray far enough from shore for that to be a problem.

If you’re in the PNW during the spring, summer, or fall be sure to add the Sound to your Kayaking destination list.

You won’t need any sort of license or permit to kayak in the Puget Sound as long as you don’t intend to fish or try to land on any private property.

7 Best Spots In The Puget Sounds To Explore Via Kayak

Before we hit the list, I should note that these aren’t in any particular order. The best place to kayak is almost always the place closest to you so start from there and work your way onward through the rest.

1. Hope Island

Hope Island is one of the most southern areas in the Puget Sound on this list but it might also be the coolest.

Hope Island Marine State Park is a 132-acre island that is only accessible via watercraft (there is no regular ferry service).

Most people in self-powered vessels strike out for the island from the public boat launch at Acadia Point which is just east of Shelton Washington

Once on the island, you can take advantage of the beaches (which are great for clamming), hiking trails, plentiful wildlife, and more.

I will say that you should be sure to bring your own water, especially if you’re planning on camping, as there are no facilities of any sort available on the island.

2. Gig Harbour

If you really love hanging out in crowds, Gig Harbour is one of the most popular destinations for kayakers and paddleboarders in the whole Puget Sound area. It’s also one of my personal favorites as you kayak to one of Washington’s many lighthouses.

If you’re just looking to get your feet wet this is a great place to start out as there are plenty of people around which, if you’re a beginner, is typically a good sign as its probably safe. There are also dozens of rental areas near the water where you can get your kayak of choice placed right on the beach for you (assuming you don’t have y our own)

If you do have your own kayak or boat there are 8 public boat launches in Pierce County from which you can access the water.

3. Dabob Bay

Dabob & Quilcene Bays are great places to experience some open water kayaking.

There are several places to put in in Quilcene Bay (we used Quilcene Boat Haven) from which point you can paddle past Point Whitney as into Dabob Bay.

There is abundant wildlife here and many people report setting eagles, otters, and seals in addition to normal marine life such as fish and starfish.

If you need more of a “destination” to feel accomplished about your paddle trip then continue on to Jackson Cove before you return.

4. Fidalgo Island

I know that “Fidalgo Island” is a pretty broad place to include on the list but you can kayak just about anywhere on or around the island and have a great experience.

The area is incredibly scenic and, from most areas, you will be treated to a stunning view of the Olympic Mountains.

Our favorite spot to kayak in this area of the Puget Sound is actually Deception Pass State Park. Deception Pass is the narrow straight that separates Whidbey Island from Fidalgo island and is home to some beautiful cliffs and plentiful wildlife.

5. Protection Island

The refuge is completely closed to visitation, and the surrounding waters within 200 yards are closed to all watercraft.

Just northeast of Sequim you’ll find another of our favorite islands in the Puget Sound: Protection Island.

The is home to the 379-acre Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge which protects dozens of local bird species (as well as seals) that use the island to breed.

Before you head out for the island, however, be sure to check if it’s currently open. It has been closed for breeding seasons and there is talk of closing it permanently to the public to save the animals from constant disruption.

Even if you are not allowed to set foot on the island, many local companies give boat tours and you are free to paddle around the island as long as you don’t approach within 200 yards of shore.

If you’re going to keep your distance, launch from Diamond Point and head straight south. It’s a bit of a paddle so this is not one that I would recommend for beginners, especially with no mid-point to get out and stretch.

6. Eld Inlet

If you’re not a particularly strong paddler but want to explore a bit, Eld Inlet is a solid year round destination.

If you’re tired or cold, just explore a single cove. If you’re feeling good, continue on! No matter how far you go it’s possible to never be too far from shore. Also the general lack of strong currents and upwelling make this area a more casual one to explore.

There are also tours of Eld Inlet available if you want to follow a predetermined route or have someone show you the sights.

7. Elliot Bay

Yes, we’re to the end but any list of Puget Sound wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Elliot Bay.

Elliot Bay is the piece of the Puget Sound that Seattle is best known for (and viewed from). From out on the bay, you can distance yourself from the dirty hubbub of the city and get an amazing panoramic view.

If you want to see the iconic Seattle skyline outside of a picture, getting out on the water in Elliot Bay is probably your best bet.

Safety First – My Personal 5 Point Safety Checklist

If you’re a proficient lake kayaker…congratulations. Some of those skill will transfer but you’ll still want to start at the very beginning if you want to stay safe on the open water.

Once you’re out on the Puget Sound the water’s cold, the currents are real, and there are massive ferries sharing the same space as your kayak. A little preparation and knowledge will go a long way in keeping you (and your group) safe from start to finish.

1. Be Prepared For A Long Swim

Washington requires a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for everyone in your kayak. Not just having one stuffed under your seat – actually wearing it is smart. Seriously, the best paddlers in the world wear PFDs. Wearing a life jacket is not the limiting factor of you getting around on the water.

Even on the hottest summer day, Puget Sound water rarely hits 55°F. Fall in, and hypothermia can start within 10 minutes. And if hypothermia would start fast for you…think about how your kids would handle it.

Not to be a downer, but you’ll wan to wear layers that work when wet. I generally recommend that you skip the cotton and go for synthetic materials or neoprene. I learned this the hard way during a surprise swim near Vashon Island and had a long wet paddle back. If you’re going to be out for long consider packing dry clothes in waterproof bags to have when you’re done.

2. Respect Nature

Respecting nature includes the weather, tides, and animals you see on the way.

No matter how many times you’ve been on the Sound, check tide charts before you go. Strong currents combined with wind can turn a pleasant paddle into a workout you didn’t sign up for. Areas like Deception Pass are notorious for this and you may find yourself on shore in a random place waiting out the wind…then waiting out the tide…

This should be common sense but keep your distance from seals, sea lions, and especially orcas. And I’m not just saying this because I hug trees professionally…it’s the law. The guideline is to stay at least 300 feet from whales and 150 feet from other marine mammals.

3. Respect Water Right-of-Way

The Puget Sound gets busy. Ferries run on schedules (constantly), cargo ships move through shipping lanes, and weekend warriors, who have way fewer boating skills, are everywhere during the summer.

You’ll want to stay visible with bright colors and stick close to shore in high-traffic areas. You can see everything from your high visibility kayak but never take for granted that boat can see you or knows you’re there.

4. Know Your Limits

Start in protected areas like Lake Union or calm bays and work your way up gradually before tackling open water. The Sound will still be there when you’re ready for bigger adventures.

Most importantly – when in doubt, don’t go out. Bad conditions will pass, but poor decisions sometimes have permanent consequences.

5. Have An Emergency Plan

I hate to be your mom but, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Cell coverage can be spotty (especially if you have the same carrier as I do that shall go unnamed), so don’t count on calling for help from the middle of nowhere.

If things go wrong, Coast Guard monitors Channel 16 on VHF radios, or call 911 from your cell phone.

Kayaking Puget Sound – Best Rental Locations

Northwest Outdoor Center

Located on Lake Union just north of downtown Seattle, Northwest Outdoor Center offers year-round kayak and paddle board rentals. You can rent single kayaks rent for $25/hour, doubles for $33/hour, and triples for $42/hour.

I will note that they require anyone under 16 to paddle in a double or triple kayak with an adult so you’ll want to plan carefully if you’re planning to go as a family. I’d also recommend that familes (or groups) go on weekdays as the 3rd and 4th hours are free for kayaks (as of this writing).

Alki Kayak Tours

If I’m in Seattle itself then Alki is still my go-to spot for rentals and, if I’m feeling social, tours. While they specialize in guided tours of the close-to-them Puget Sound, Alki Kayak Tours also offers paddling excursions to the Duwamish River, Elliott Bay, and Blake Island.

I will advise here that you should probably go for an all-day rental as you’ll get a significant discount over the hourly rate.

Agua Verde Paddle Club

Agua Verde Paddle Club is set up in a great spot if you’re looking to explore Gas Works Park or seeing some of Seattle’s quaint houseboats out on the water. I’ve never used them myself buy have friends that have said great things about their operation and gear.

Moss Bay

If you’re looking for a place that will help you get on the water consistently, Moss Bay offers seasonal memberships for unlimited kayaking & paddle boarding during their club hours (May 15th-September 15th). You’ll have to act fast though every year as limited spots are available and they keep a waiting list.

While I’m sure there are many other locations that do a great service, these are the ones that I’m familiar with and can recommend. Wherever you go jusdt be sure to call ahead as many places operate seasonally.

Kayaking The Puget Sound Near Seattle

If you’re kayaking near Seattle I’ve got a bonus spot for you that will, all at once, be way more exciting and boring than Elliot Bay.

The Ballard Locks are the second most visited tourist location in Seattle but, as a kayaker, you have the unique option of going through it rather than just viewing it from the top.

While hiring a tour is a solid option here you should at least watch the locks for a bit before paddling through. The whole trip can take an hour or more as the locks fill slowly but you’ll likely have a story that very few kayakers outside of the PNW can match!

Kayaking The Puget Sound Near Olympia

If you’re looking for some kayaking excursions around Olympia, you’re in luck. In addition to the Puget Sound, there are half a dozen other bodies of water to explore.

If you’re looking to escape the salt and try your hand exploring (or fishing in) a freshwater lake then head to Lake Cushman.

Lake Cushman is part of the Olympia National Forest and is famed for its crystal clear waters and heavily forested shoreline.

The lake (actually it’s a reservoir) is extremely popular so be sure to get here and put your kayak in the water early to avoid the crowds!

Conclusion

Whether you live in the PNW or are just visiting you’ll no doubt see a bit of the Puget Sound. However, I think that every single person who sees it should go the extra mile and see how it looks from a kayak.

Not only with kayaking the Puget Sound give you a great appreciation for the natural marine beauty of the area but even Seattle manages to look beautiful when you’re out on the water.

So grab a paddle (or rent one) and get out there!