The Best Places to Paddle Board in Washington State

I haven’t been every where but I sure know where my favorite spots are and also what is on my list! So, while I share out The Best Places to Paddle Board in Washington State, know that I haven’t been to all of them but I hope to some day.

Previously it was hard to grab a board and travel out to different bodies of water but since I got my Inflatable paddle board, I’ve been able to go a few new places. I’m also a creature of habit. I love lakes and places that are close to home but with out major traffic. Especially without boat or jet ski traffic. I appreciate calm water.

I also love how convenient it is to grab my paddle board and go. Especially because it’s already paid for. I feel like it’s a free activity now! I’m definitely getting good use out of it.

A lot of these spots work well for kayaking too. However, kayaks seat IN the water and not ON the water, like a SUP. So, definitely be weary of tree stumps and other low tide riff raff under the water.

SUP and Kayaking Spokane WA — Paddling boarding while my brother kayaks

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Paddle Board in Washington State

Starting in Seattle, due to popularity. Then I’ll go west to east to keep these as unbiased as possible. 😅

Seward Park

Though a lot of you will argue that Lake Union should be my first Seattle park, I beg to differ. Seward park is by far more calm and safe, especially for new paddle boarders on the water. You can cast off from tons of locations right on to Lake Washington. There aren’t tons of boats, jets, skis, traffic, etc. Just be cautious of little kiddos when getting in.

North Lake Washington

Despite other popular opinions, I don’t like casting off around Juanita Beach nearly as much as Sand Point or Matthews Beach. However, you do need to be cognizant of choppy waters. When it’s rough, it’s rough. The bonus to casting off here, is the killer view of Mount Rainier.

Lake Bellinger

This spot if just north of Seattle I rarely park in the lot (unless on a weekday). There is another access point on the other side of the lake that I prefer to cast off from. No motorized boats are allowed on the water, there are always other paddle-ers out there are it’s an easy lake to lounge on.

San Juan Islands

Literally anywhere on the San Juan Islands is going to be a beautiful place to paddle. Obviously, stay clear of boat and ferry traffic around San Juan and Lopez but other than that, if you’re lucky – you might see a few Orcas in the distance. I have quite a few friends who have recommended Friday Harbor but I haven’t made it out there yet. I still think this is for more advanced paddlers.

Places to Paddle Board in Washington — Paddling on Nine Mile, Spokane, WA

Spada Lake

I discovered this lake while on a easy hike with a girlfriend. We were on our way to Sultan Basin Trails. We just wanted to get out of the city and walk around but came across the South Fork Site access point and it was the perfect to cast off with a paddle board. We were there in the heart of Fall but it would be the perfect Summer Day Trip out there from the city. Highly recommend. We saw a trio of kayakers out there very early in the morning so it much be worth it.

Cle Elum Lake

A very very popular vacation spot for Seattle families. This lake is super cute but does allow boats. It’s mostly calm in the summer time and it has beaches!

Moses Lake

Moses Lake is super popular in early Summer because the coast line is still rainy and cold. A lot of Seattlites and Portlanders drive the 3.5 hours for sunshine and water sports at Moses Lake. It’s super big and can accommodate kayakers, SUP, jet skiers, etc. It’s a great fishing lake and also has a full set up for RV parking, hotels, etc. A great family fun spot on a budget.

Nine Mile Resort

This 3 mile stretch to the Nine Mile Dam is as far east as Washington will go, in Spokane. It’s also flat with zero current but perfect for new boarders alike. In fact, it’s quite a work out because of the lack of current. There’s nothing better than being on a river. Kayakers beware: you’re gonna have to work for this one.

This post will probably be updated as time goes on. Especially as I test other spots out and find favorites. Hope you guys enjoyed this one. Where are your favorite places to cast off from?