Discover the serenity of Puget Sound with a kayak rental from Olympic Outdoor Center in Port Orchard. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views and wildlife sightings in a peaceful setting. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting outdoor experience!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some paddling experience is helpful but not required.
Wildlife
History
Port Orchard has a rich maritime history, once serving as a bustling port for timber and fishing industries, which shaped the area’s development.
Conservation
Olympic Outdoor Center emphasizes eco-friendly practices by providing sustainable gear rentals and promoting Leave No Trace principles to preserve local waterways.
Olympic Outdoor Center
Discover the serenity of Puget Sound with a kayak rental from Olympic Outdoor Center in Port Orchard. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views and wildlife sightings in a peaceful setting. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting outdoor experience!
Olympic Outdoor Center is an outdoor recreation provider based in Port Gamble, Washington, offering kayak and bike rentals, guided tours, and equipment suited to a wide range of ages and skill levels. The center provides stable sit-on-top kayak rentals for exploring Hood Canal and Port Gamble Bay, premium lightweight touring sea kayaks for intermediate and advanced paddlers, and guided wildlife kayak tours in Liberty Bay that operate from May to September.
Nighttime bioluminescence kayak tours in Port Gamble Bay allow paddlers to witness glowing waters along nearly two miles of shoreline while enjoying sunsets over the Olympic Mountains. Bike offerings include electric bike tours and electric bike rentals that access up to 30 miles of nearby trails, and a selection of mountain bikes including the Kona Process 134 in 27.5" and 29" configurations and a Raleigh Scout 24" youth hardtail for family outings. Rentals and tours launch from the Olympic Outdoor Center storefront in Port Gamble, with quick access to Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park and nearby logging roads and singletrack trails around Poulsbo.
Equipment selection accommodates beginners, families, and more experienced adventurers seeking day trips, classes, or weekend camping paddling excursions. Guided options emphasize wildlife viewing—harbor seals, porpoises, and bald eagles are commonly observed—while rentals offer self-guided exploration. Reservations are recommended for specialty experiences such as bioluminescence tours and premium sea kayaks. Olympic Outdoor Center focuses on local waterways and trail access to deliver safe, memorable outdoor experiences in the Port Gamble area. Services suit families and solo adventurers.
Location
Port Gamble, WA
On Hood Canal and Port Gamble Bay.
Kayak Types
Sit-on-top & Touring
Stable rentals for all ages.
Wildlife
Seals & Bald Eagles
Spot harbor seals and bald eagles.
Trail Access
Up to 30 miles
E-bike and mountain bike trails nearby.
Book sit-on-top kayaks, premium sea kayaks, bioluminescence or wildlife tours, or reserve e-bikes and mountain bikes to secure preferred dates and equipment.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and sun protection to stay comfortable throughout your paddle.
Check water conditions
Ensure calm water conditions before heading out, especially for beginners or small children.
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized by packing snacks and plenty of water for your trip.
Watch for wildlife
Keep an eye out for sea birds, otters, and seals that frequent the area.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Wearing a PFD ensures safety and compliance with local regulations.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects your skin from UV rays during sunny days.
summer
Water-resistant clothing
Keeps you comfortable if weather conditions change unexpectedly.
winterspring
Water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your paddling session.