7 Best Places to Paddle Board in Washington (WA)

Discover the beauty of the Pacific Northwest as you glide across its pristine waters.

Did you know that some of the best places to paddle board in Washington are just waiting to be explored?

Join us as we unveil the gems of this breathtaking state. Are you ready for an adventure in Washington’s dazzling waterways?

Table of Contents

1 Map
2 Where to Paddle Board in Washington
3 FAQ

Map

Where to Paddle Board in Washington

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!

#1 Lake Washington

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Madrona Beach Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, fresh lake water, can be windy in the afternoon
Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Trout, salmon, herons, ducks
️????️️ Landmarks & Views: Magnificent waterfront homes, Seattle skyline
Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in high boat traffic, cold water can be a risk

Lake Washington is a freshwater gem located next to Seattle, providing stunning views of the city skyline and a wide array of impressive waterfront homes.

Paddle close to the shoreline or take a more challenging route and cross the lake. Either way, it’s a must-see destination for all paddleboard enthusiasts.

#2 Lake Union

????️ ️Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Gas Works Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm urban lake water, variable winds
Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Geese, ducks, cormorants
️????️ Landmarks & Views: Seattle skyline, colorful houseboats
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, adhere to designated zones

Lake Union is situated in the heart of Seattle, offering a unique urban paddleboarding experience. Paddle among colorful houseboats, admire the city skyline, and relax in the calm waters of this beautiful spot.

Lake Union is perfect for a leisurely paddle before dining at one of the many waterside restaurants.

#3 Green Lake

????️ ️Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Green Lake Boat Launch (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, mild afternoon winds
Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, turtles
️????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Scenic park surroundings, waterfront homes
Safety, Environment and Rules: Stay clear of sensitive areas, respect local rules

Green Lake, located in one of Seattle’s most popular parks, is a serene paddleboarding destination. With its calm waters and picturesque surroundings, Green Lake promises a relaxing day on the water.

Paddleboarders can also enjoy the diverse wildlife and lovely waterfront homes that line this urban oasis.

#4 Puget Sound

????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
???? Access Point: Alki Beach Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Ocean currents, can be windy
Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea lions, bald eagles
️????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Downtown Seattle, Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound
Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect wildlife regulations

Puget Sound is an extensive body of water that offers diverse paddleboarding spots along its shoreline, such as Alki Beach Park – one of the most popular launching points.

Paddle along the sandy beach, taking in breathtaking views of the downtown Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. Remember to keep a safe distance from the shoreline and follow wildlife regulations in this impressive location.

#5 Lake Sammamish

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Idylwood Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional afternoon winds
Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, herons, ducks
️????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Cascades Mountains, stunning waterfront homes
Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution near water skiers and boats, follow local regulations

Lake Sammamish, situated just east of Seattle, is a favorite spot for paddleboarders who enjoy spectacular views of the Cascades Mountains and luxurious waterfront homes.

Explore the shores lined with lush greenery, and keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Stay alert near water skiers and boats, and follow local regulations for a safe and enjoyable paddling session.

#6 Hood Canal

????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
???? Access Point: Twanoh State Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild ocean currents, variable winds
Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea lions, bald eagles, herons
️????️ Landmarks & Views: Olympic Mountains, charming coves and inlets
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of tidal changes, respect sensitive wildlife areas

Hood Canal, a natural waterway located west of Seattle, offers an idyllic setting for paddleboarding along its sheltered coves and inlets. With stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and a diverse range of wildlife to observe, Hood Canal is a paddler’s dream.

Keep safety in mind by staying aware of tidal changes and respecting sensitive wildlife areas.

Apologies for any confusion. Here are the remaining paddleboard spots in or very close to Washington (WA).

#7 Lake Chelan

????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
???? Access Point: Lakeside Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, mild winds
Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Trout, osprey, deer on the shores
️????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Cascade Mountains, vineyards
Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution near boat traffic, adhere to designated zones