Paddling the Sandstone Labyrinth of Chuckanut Bay
A slow, scenic sea-kayak day among eagles, seals, and sculpted sandstone on Washington’s first state park shoreline.
At the southern edge of Bellingham, the shoreline narrows into a crenulated seam of rock and forest where the Salish Sea breathes in and out with the tide. Morning haze lifts from the water at Larrabee State Park, and the bay’s sandstone ribs appear—sculpted, honeycombed, and quietly daring you to come closer. You slip into a tandem sea kayak, the bow rocking as a lazy swell noses you forward. The guides talk about paddle angles and bracing strokes; a bald eagle heckles from a cedar; the current nudges like an impatient friend. Then you push off, slicing into a day that moves at the speed of the tide.
Trail Wisdom
Read the Tides, Not the Clock
Tidal flow shapes this tour’s feel and route—ask your guide about slack windows and how wind-over-tide can create chop near points.
Layer Like a Local
Wear quick-dry synthetics or merino plus a windproof shell; the marine layer can cool fast even on sunny days.
Wildlife Space Matters
Give seals and birds a wide berth—if they look at you or shift position, you’re too close. Let them own the rock.
Posture = Power
Sit tall, rotate from your torso, and plant the blade close to the hull for efficient miles without sore shoulders.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Teddy Bear Cove: a pocket beach with teal water and tidepooling at low tide
- •The Oyster Dome overlook: a short hike inland with sweeping Salish Sea views
Wildlife
Harbor seals, Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Chuckanut Island is protected by The Nature Conservancy; land gently, stay below the high-tide line where requested, and avoid disturbing seal haul-outs and nesting birds.
Larrabee State Park became Washington’s first state park in 1915, and these shores sit within traditional homelands of the Lummi and Samish peoples.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildlife activity, Cooler air temps
Challenges: Variable wind, Cold water
A lively shoulder season with seals, eagles, and fresh green onshore. Expect chilly water and bring extra layers.
summer
Best for: Calmer seas, Family outings
Challenges: Busy parking, Glare and sun exposure
Long days, warmer air, and frequent morning glass. Arrive early for parking and protect against sun on reflective water.
fall
Best for: Clear vistas, Quieter coves
Challenges: Foggy mornings, Earlier sunsets
Crisp air and great visibility with fewer crowds. Watch for fog banks and pack a warm layer for the ride back.
winter
Best for: Dramatic skies, Solitude
Challenges: Storm systems, Cold rain
Advanced paddlers only unless guided and conditions are favorable. Expect swift weather changes and cold, wet gear.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Water Shoes or Neoprene BootiesEssential
Protect your feet during launches and landings while keeping traction on wet rock and boat ramps.
Windproof ShellEssential
The marine layer and breeze can chill quickly; a light shell keeps you comfortable between exertion and rest.
Brimmed Hat with Retainer Strap
Glare is real on open water; a hat with a strap stays put in wind and reduces eye strain for spotting wildlife.
1–2L Refillable Water BottleEssential
Hydration sneaks up on paddlers; bring enough water to sip regularly over five hours.
Common Questions
Do I need kayaking experience?
No—this tour welcomes beginners. Guides cover safety, paddle technique, and route planning before launch.
What’s the distance and pace?
Expect roughly 6–7 miles over five hours with frequent breaks for wildlife viewing and lunch.
Is lunch included?
Yes. A vegetarian lunch and a light on-water snack are included; notify the operator in advance about dietary needs.
Are single kayaks available?
This tour primarily uses tandem sea kayaks for stability and efficiency. Singles may be limited—ask when booking.
What should I wear?
Quick-dry layers, a windproof shell, and closed-toe water shoes. Avoid cotton; bring a warm layer for wind or shade.
Is a Discover Pass required for parking?
Yes. A Washington State Discover Pass is required to park at Larrabee State Park.
What to Pack
1–2L water bottle for steady sipping; quick-dry layers and a wind shell for shifting marine weather; closed-toe water shoes to protect feet at rocky landings; brimmed hat and sunscreen to manage glare and UV on open water.
Did You Know
Larrabee State Park, where this tour launches, is Washington’s first state park—established in 1915 after land was donated by the Larrabee family.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sort parking and gear; display a valid Discover Pass in your vehicle; stow phones and keys in the provided dry bag; bring a change of clothes for the drive back, just in case.
Local Flavor
Post-paddle, head up Chuckanut Drive to The Oyster Bar for tide-to-table shellfish with a view, or back in Bellingham hit Boundary Bay Brewery for a local pint and hearty fare. Coffee at Camber downtown pairs well with a stroll along the waterfront Waypoint Park.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Bellingham International (BLI). Launch: Wildcat Cove, Larrabee State Park. Drive time from downtown Bellingham: ~20 minutes via Chuckanut Drive (SR 11). Cell service: spotty at the beach; download directions ahead. Parking: Discover Pass required. Permits: none for paddlers when guided.
Sustainability Note
This coastline supports sensitive intertidal habitats and protected marine mammals—pack out everything, avoid landing near seals and seabirds, and minimize noise on Chuckanut Island’s beaches.
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