Guide to Paddleboarding in Seattle

Paddleboarding in Seattle

As someone who has been chasing flat water and good conditions across the Pacific Northwest, I’ve picked up a thing or two about stand-up paddleboarding around here along the way. Let me walk you through what I know.

Figuring out paddleboarding has gotten complicated with all the YouTube tutorials and gear reviews flying around, so let me cut through the noise.

Lake Union

Probably should have led with this section, honestly.

Lake Union provides accessible urban paddling. Launch from parks along the shore. Watch for seaplane traffic and boat wakes. Gas Works Park and South Lake Union offer popular launch points.

Lake Washington

The region’s largest lake offers miles of shoreline. Wind can build in afternoons—plan accordingly. Many parks provide beach access. Kirkland, Madison Park, and Seward Park are popular entry points.

Puget Sound

Salt water paddling requires more experience. Tides and currents affect conditions significantly. Alki Beach and Golden Gardens offer protected paddling. Check forecasts and tide charts before heading out.

That’s what makes paddleboarding so special to us Seattle paddlers, honestly.

Hope that gives you a solid starting point. The rest you’ll pick up as you go — that’s half the fun, really.