Discover the beauty of Puget Sound on a private kayak tour in Olympia, Washington. Perfect for all skill levels, this experience offers scenic shoreline views and opportunities to spot local wildlife—an outdoor adventure you won't forget.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should have basic swimming ability and comfortable paddling skills.
Wildlife
History
Olympia's waterfront has long been a hub for maritime activity, with historical ties to fishing and shipping industries dating back over a century.
Conservation
South Sound Kayak Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact while educating guests about local conservation efforts.
South Sound Kayak Tours
Discover the beauty of Puget Sound on a private kayak tour in Olympia, Washington. Perfect for all skill levels, this experience offers scenic shoreline views and opportunities to spot local wildlife—an outdoor adventure you won't forget.
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 Weather Before You Go
Always review weather conditions to ensure safe paddling, especially during high winds or rain.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes to stay comfortable and dry during your kayak trip.
Bring Sun Protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure on open water.
Arrive Early for the Best Experience
Getting to the launch point early ensures a relaxed start and the opportunity to choose the best kayak setup.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A properly fitting PFD is essential for safety on the water.
Waterproof Sun Protection
Keeps you protected from sunburn and glare while paddling.
summer
Lightweight Layers
Layer clothing for warmth and comfort based on the season.
spring|fall|winter
Water-resistant Footwear
Provides grip and keeps your feet dry during paddling.