July 9

Kayaks & paddleboards & boats, oh my!

Lake Union’s calm waters are made for splash-worthy summer fun.

Lake Union’s close proximity to the buzzing SLU neighborhood makes it an ideal spot for impromptu lunchtime recreation. Or, plan to spend the whole day exploring the lake via kayak, standup paddleboard, or sailboat. A number of local institutions offer equipment and gear rental and lessons. No matter your skill level, there’s something fun waiting for every water lover on Lake Union.

Sail Away

The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) showcases Seattle’s maritime heritage and offers folks the chance to get out on the water and experience the thrill of sailing FOR FREE. The CastOFF! Sunday Sails have been a tradition for more than 25 years. This first-come, first served opportunity takes place between 11am and 3pm every Sunday, rain or shine. There are no age limits, but interested sailors will want to arrive before the 10am signup starts to secure a spot. Rides are generally 45 minutes to an hour long. If you want to skip the line, consider becoming a CWB member. The membership gets you a ton of perks, like discounts on classes or boat rentals. A CWB membership also affords patrons the opportunity to purchase a livery pass, which gets you unlimited rentals of sail, row, pedal, and paddle boats both on Lake Union and at CWB’s saltwater site at Cama Beach. Different pass tiers are available.

Paddles Up

Moss Bay Kayak, Paddleboard, and Sail Center is a one-stop shop for easy lake recreation. The outfitter provides hourly kayak and paddleboard rentals, and just like the CWB, offers up a membership program for avid kayakers and SUPers. For $275, Moss Bay members receive unlimited rentals of kayaks and paddleboards for seven days a week for three. This membership offer is good for in-season hours only (May–September). Looking for a unique team-building activity? Moss Bay offers group rates for rentals, plus engaging, 2.5-hour long group tours of Lake Union.

Photos & story by Ethan Chung.


At The Center

SLU is the geographical center of Seattle