Elliott Bay kayaking: Seattle skyline and marine wildlife

Paddle Elliott Bay and the mouth of the Duwamish River with Seattle's skyline in view

Elliott Bay sea kayaking from Alki Beach in Seattle pairs a two-hour paddle through historic waters with views of the skyline and Olympic Mountain ranges. You explore the bay and river mouth by kayak, guided by a local with years of experience, and watch for California sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles and osprey that live in the sound.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sea kayak tour of Elliott Bay

• Meet local knowledgeable guides
• Begin sea kayak tour at Alki Beach
• Paddle through Elliott Bay and Duwamish River mouth
• View Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains
• Observe marine wildlife and birds
• Complete 2-hour kayak adventure

The experience

You launch from sandy Alki Beach, minutes from the meeting point, and paddle out into Elliott Bay on a guided afternoon adventure. The route takes you through historic waters where the Duwamish River meets the sound, and the Seattle skyline rises across the water the whole time. A local guide who knows the bay leads the paddle and points out the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges framing the water.

Marine wildlife lives right outside the city. Depending on the season and conditions, you may encounter California sea lions hauled out on rocks, harbor seals in the water, bald eagles perched in trees along the shore, or osprey diving for fish. The guide knows where to look and what to listen for. The paddle lasts two hours and stays on the water the whole time, so the views don't stop.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle and personal flotation device.
• live guide in English.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDeparts at 14:30

AgesAdult (12 to 89 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10 · max 8 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Alki Kayak Tours

Is this one for you?The two-hour afternoon paddle suits anyone with moderate fitness who wants to see the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains from the water and watch for seals, sea lions and eagles without a full-day commitment. Minimum age is 12.

Traveler reviews

4.75★★★★★★★★★★

4 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife might I see on Elliott Bay?

California sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles and osprey all live in the sound and turn up regularly on the paddle. Sightings depend on the season and conditions, but the guide knows the bay and watches for them throughout the two hours.

Do I need kayaking experience to paddle Elliott Bay?

No prior experience is required. The guide leads the paddle and handles the route. You operate the kayak with instruction. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to paddle for two hours.

Where does the kayak tour start and how do I get there?

The tour launches from Alki Beach in West Seattle, minutes from the meeting point. Public transportation options are available nearby if you don't have a car.

What's included in the kayak tour?

The kayak, paddle and personal flotation device (PFD) are all provided. The guide is a live English speaker with years of experience on the bay.