Washington State, with its diverse waterways, stunning coastlines, and breathtaking natural beauty, offers some of the best boating destinations in the United States. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a casual boater, Washington’s waters provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable adventures. This guide will take you through the 10 best boating destinations in Washington, offering details on what each location has to offer, including costs, amenities, and unique features.
1. San Juan Islands
Overview:
The San Juan Islands are a boater’s paradise, located between the mainland and Vancouver Island. The archipelago consists of 172 islands, with Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez being the most popular. The islands offer sheltered waters, abundant wildlife, and charming coastal towns.
Features:
- Best For: Cruising, wildlife viewing, exploring quaint towns.
- Wildlife: Orcas, seals, sea lions, bald eagles.
- Marinas: Friday Harbor Marina, Roche Harbor Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $25–$75 per night, depending on the marina and season.
- Fuel Prices: Approximately $4.00–$5.50 per gallon.
- Docking: Roche Harbor Marina: $2.00 per foot; Friday Harbor Marina: $1.70 per foot.
Specs:
- Navigation: Sheltered waters, easy navigation for all levels.
- Accessibility: Accessible from Anacortes by boat or ferry.
2. Lake Washington
Overview:
Lake Washington, located between Seattle and Bellevue, is one of the largest natural lakes in Washington. It’s a popular destination for recreational boating, water sports, and scenic cruising. The lake offers views of the Seattle skyline and the Cascade Mountains.
Features:
- Best For: Water sports, fishing, casual cruising.
- Landmarks: Mount Rainier views, floating homes, bridges.
- Marinas: Leschi Marina, Carillon Point Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $20–$50 per night, depending on the marina.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Leschi Marina: $15 per night; Carillon Point Marina: $40 per night.
Specs:
- Size: 22 miles long, 4 miles wide.
- Depth: Average depth of 108 feet, max depth of 214 feet.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Seattle and Bellevue.
3. Puget Sound
Overview:
Puget Sound is a large and complex estuarine system of interconnected marine waterways and basins, offering a variety of boating experiences. From bustling ports like Seattle and Tacoma to quiet, protected coves, Puget Sound has something for every boater.
Features:
- Best For: Coastal cruising, port hopping, whale watching.
- Wildlife: Whales, seals, porpoises, sea birds.
- Marinas: Bell Harbor Marina (Seattle), Foss Harbor Marina (Tacoma).
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $30–$80 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$6.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Bell Harbor Marina: $1.50–$2.00 per foot; Foss Harbor Marina: $1.35 per foot.
Specs:
- Navigation: Open water with some tidal currents, suitable for experienced boaters.
- Accessibility: Accessible from various points along the Washington coast.
4. Lake Chelan
Overview:
Lake Chelan is a 50-mile-long, glacier-fed lake surrounded by the North Cascades. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery, making it a top destination for boating and water sports.
Features:
- Best For: Fishing, water sports, scenic cruising.
- Landmarks: Stehekin Valley, vineyards, North Cascades views.
- Marinas: Chelan Marina, Manson Bay Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $25–$45 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.50–$5.50 per gallon.
- Docking: Chelan Marina: $30 per night; Manson Bay Marina: $20 per night.
Specs:
- Size: 50 miles long, up to 1 mile wide.
- Depth: Up to 1,486 feet deep.
- Accessibility: Accessible via Highway 97 or by boat from the Columbia River.
5. Hood Canal
Overview:
Hood Canal is a fjord forming the westernmost waterway of the Puget Sound region. It offers boaters the chance to explore secluded bays, pristine waters, and rich marine life. The area is less crowded than other parts of Puget Sound, providing a peaceful retreat.
Features:
- Best For: Exploring secluded areas, fishing, wildlife viewing.
- Wildlife: Salmon, oysters, seals, crabs.
- Marinas: Pleasant Harbor Marina, Port Ludlow Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $20–$50 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Pleasant Harbor Marina: $1.50 per foot; Port Ludlow Marina: $1.25 per foot.
Specs:
- Size: 60 miles long, 1.5 miles wide.
- Depth: Maximum depth of 600 feet.
- Accessibility: Accessible from the Kitsap Peninsula.
6. Lake Union
Overview:
Lake Union is an urban lake located in the heart of Seattle. It’s a popular spot for recreational boating, with iconic views of the Space Needle and downtown skyline. The lake is a hub for maritime activity, including houseboats, kayaking, and sailing.
Features:
- Best For: Urban boating, sightseeing, dining on the water.
- Landmarks: Space Needle, Gas Works Park, floating homes.
- Marinas: South Lake Union Marina, AGC Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $25–$55 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: South Lake Union Marina: $50 per night; AGC Marina: $25 per night.
Specs:
- Size: 580 acres.
- Depth: Average depth of 34 feet, max depth of 50 feet.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from downtown Seattle.
7. Columbia River
Overview:
The Columbia River, flowing from British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean, offers diverse boating experiences, from calm waters near the Tri-Cities to the challenging currents of the Columbia River Gorge. The river is a major thoroughfare for both recreational and commercial boating.
Features:
- Best For: Long-distance cruising, fishing, exploring diverse landscapes.
- Landmarks: Columbia River Gorge, Bonneville Dam, vineyards.
- Marinas: Port of Camas-Washougal Marina, Columbia Point Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $20–$60 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $3.50–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Port of Camas-Washougal Marina: $1.00 per foot; Columbia Point Marina: $35 per night.
Specs:
- Length: 1,243 miles (shared with Oregon).
- Depth: Varies, with deep channels for commercial traffic.
- Accessibility: Accessible from multiple points along the river.
8. Gig Harbor
Overview:
Gig Harbor is a charming waterfront town on the Kitsap Peninsula, known for its maritime history and picturesque harbor. It’s a popular destination for boating, offering sheltered waters and easy access to Puget Sound.
Features:
- Best For: Harbor cruising, exploring historic waterfront, dining.
- Landmarks: Historic waterfront, Tides Tavern, Mount Rainier views.
- Marinas: Gig Harbor Marina, Arabella’s Landing.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $35–$65 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Gig Harbor Marina: $1.75 per foot; Arabella’s Landing: $2.00 per foot.
Specs:
- Size: Small, protected harbor.
- Depth: Average depth of 12 feet.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Tacoma and Seattle.
9. Lake Roosevelt
Overview:
Lake Roosevelt, formed by the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River, is one of the largest lakes in Washington. It offers a serene boating experience with opportunities for fishing, camping, and exploring remote coves.
Features:
- Best For: Fishing, camping, exploring remote areas.
- Wildlife: Trout, walleye, bald eagles.
- Marinas: Seven Bays Marina, Kettle Falls Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $20–$40 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.00–$5.00 per gallon.
- Docking: Seven Bays Marina: $25 per night; Kettle Falls Marina: $20 per night.
Specs:
- Size: 130 miles long.
- Depth: Average depth of 80 feet.
- Accessibility: Accessible from northeastern Washington.
10. Deception Pass
Overview:
Deception Pass, located between Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island, is known for its dramatic cliffs, strong currents, and scenic beauty. It’s a challenging destination for experienced boaters but offers rewarding views and access to nearby beaches and
trails.
Features:
- Best For: Experienced boaters, scenic cruising, exploring tide pools.
- Landmarks: Deception Pass Bridge, Rosario Beach, tide pools.
- Marinas: Cornet Bay Marina, La Conner Marina.
Costs:
- Mooring Fees: $25–$50 per night.
- Fuel Prices: $4.50–$5.50 per gallon.
- Docking: Cornet Bay Marina: $30 per night; La Conner Marina: $1.50 per foot.
Specs:
- Size: Narrow strait with strong tidal currents.
- Depth: Average depth of 60 feet.
- Accessibility: Accessible from Anacortes and Whidbey Island.
Conclusion
Washington State’s diverse boating destinations offer something for everyone, from serene lakes to rugged coastlines and bustling urban waterways. Whether you’re looking to explore the peaceful San Juan Islands or navigate the challenging waters of Deception Pass, these top 10 boating spots provide unforgettable experiences. Remember to plan ahead, check local regulations, and prepare for varying conditions to make the most of your Washington boating adventure.
Note: Prices and fees are estimates and can vary depending on the season, marina, and specific services. Always check with marinas and fuel stations for the most up-to-date information before setting sail.
Happy Boating!
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