Few places in the world offer such stunning scenery and easy access to paddling as does the South Puget Sound and Hood Canal region. Sea kayakers can explore seemingly endless miles of pristine saltwater shoreline, cruise the reaches of Lake Cushman in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, or glide with the gentle currents of the Skokomish and Tahuya Rivers.

At high tide, sea kayakers can launch at Belfair State Park and paddle northward to explore the easy flowing curves of the Union River estuary. Oyster beds flourish just the beneath the surface. Heron, bald eagles, owls, and many migratory birds frequent this unique area.

A multi-day trip on the Cascadia Marine Trail, one of the premier water trails in the US, provides breathtaking views and several options for overnight stays at marine-access parks and Washington Water Trail campsites.

Mason County has two local businesses that offer kayak rentals: Hood Canal Adventures, on the Hood Canal at Union; and North Bay Kayak on the Allyn waterfront, where you can paddle throughout Case Inlet and South Puget Sound.

Watch this great video on Hood Canal businesses that offer kayaking, biking, fishing, etc...

Jarrell Cove State Park also serves as a base for exploring the cold, clear waters of Puget Sound and several nearby parks accessible only by boat.

Kayak rentals are available at:

Mike's Beach Resort in Lilliwaup
Rest-A-While Marina in Hoodsport
Lake Cushman Resort
Hood Canal Adventures in Union
North Bay Kayak & Water Sports in Allyn

Important links:

• NOAA 2008 tide tables for Union, WA

From the Kayak page on our Blog:

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