Discover the beauty of Puget Sound on a private kayak tour around Hope Island. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this guided experience offers breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a peaceful escape in Shelton, Washington.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling skills recommended but not required
Wildlife
History
Hope Island has a rich history as a former fishing and logging site, now preserved for its natural beauty and wildlife habitat.
Conservation
South Sound Kayak Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimal-impact paddling and wildlife protection to preserve this pristine environment.
South Sound Kayak Tours
Discover the beauty of Puget Sound on a private kayak tour around Hope Island. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this guided experience offers breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a peaceful escape in Shelton, Washington.
South Sound Kayak Tours is a Shelton, Washington-based outfitter offering guided small-group kayak adventures on South Puget Sound. The company operates a range of guided trips that showcase local marine habitats, shoreline trails, and scenic mountain views. Departing from locations near Olympia and Shelton, trips include a 3-hour Hope Island kayak tour around Hope Island Marine State Park (about 30 minutes from Olympia), 2-hour Olympia Waterfront tours of Budd Bay departing Swantown Marina, and seasonal Olympia Sunset kayak tours on Budd Bay during summer golden hours.
Guides focus on safe, accessible paddling for participants of all skill levels and provide options for single or tandem kayaks on waterfront and sunset tours. Hope Island trips offer protected waters with opportunities to see seals, sea lions, porpoise, and bald eagles, plus on-island time to explore trails, old-growth pockets, and historic fruit trees. On clear days, paddlers can enjoy views of the Olympic Mountains and Mt. Rainier from the water.
Safety and family access are part of the offering: Hope Island tours note ages 5+ with an adult (16+) and a per-person weight limit of 240 pounds. Group sizes are kept small to enhance wildlife viewing and shoreline exploration. South Sound Kayak Tours presents straightforward, locally focused kayak experiences for visitors and residents seeking guided paddling around Olympia, Budd Bay, and Hope Island. Trips are described as perfect for all skill levels, accommodating beginners through experienced paddlers, and emphasize wildlife viewing, scenic interpretation, and safe paddling practices on South Puget Sound waters regularly.
Location
Shelton, WA
Based in Shelton, WA.
Tours Offered
4 guided tours
Small group kayak adventures.
Trip Lengths
2–3 hours
Tour durations of 2–3 hours.
Wildlife & Views
Seals, eagles, Mt. Rainier
See local wildlife and mountain views.
Select Hope Island, Olympia Waterfront, or Sunset tours — small groups, wildlife viewing, and unforgettable mountain vistas.
Check the weather forecast
Always review the weather before your trip to ensure safe paddling conditions and dress accordingly.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself during hours of outdoor activity.
Pack light but smart
Carry lightweight water bottles, waterproof cameras, and a small snack to stay comfortable and energized.
Respect wildlife and environment
Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during long hours on the water.
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Hat and sunglasses
Shields your face and eyes from sun glare and reflections.
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Light waterproof jacket
Provides extra warmth and protection against unexpected splashes or weather changes.
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Dry bag
Keeps valuables and electronics dry during paddling.
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