Shilshole Bay
Shilshole Bay provides multiple paddle routes for all types of skill levels and is by far the easiest place in Seattle to launch on the Puget Sound. You can either watch the friendly seals swim under your boat during a laid-back trip through the Shilshole Bay Marina to Golden Gardens Park, fight the tidal current in a journey to the Ballard Locks, or make the trek over to Discovery Park. This location is also known to entertain pro paddlers with surfable waves that are created during low tide on the southern entrance to Salmon Bay.
Location: Shilshole Bay, Puget Sound
Launch: There is a small public beach behind the Ballard Elks Lodge. The beach is all sand and to get there you walk down a dirt path on the south side of the Ballard Elks Lodge parking lot. Google maps address here.
Activities: Kayaking and Stand-up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Best Time of Year: Year-round
Parking: Free on Seaview Ave NW (do not park in the Ballard Elks Lodge parking lot)
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Weather: Shilshole Bay, WA
Watercraft Rentals: Surf Ballard
Paddle Board Lessons: Salmon Bay Paddle
Disclaimer. This information should be treated as a recommendation and you are responsible for yourself, your actions, and your safety. Always research current water conditions prior to planning your adventure.
