Bowman Bay Sea Kayak: Guided Paddles in Deception Pass State Park
Glide through Bowman Bay’s sheltered waters on a beginner-friendly guided sea kayak trip that keeps you clear of the bridge’s fierce currents while bringing you close to seals, eagle perches, and intertidal life. Plan for a relaxed 90-minute paddle with expert guides and all gear included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to sign waivers
Show up at least 30 minutes before launch to complete paperwork and get fitted for life jackets—late arrivals may miss the trip.
Protect electronics
Bring a dry bag or waterproof case; phones and cameras are at real risk from spray even in calm conditions.
Dress in layers and water shoes
Expect cool breezes on the water—quick-drying layers and closed-toe water shoes keep you comfortable and safe during launches and landings.
Mind the weight and height limits
Guides can’t seat travelers over about 265 lbs or taller than 6'5" in these tandems—call ahead if you’re near those limits.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Low-tide tide pools on the north end of Bowman Bay—best during a half-day low tide.
- •Cornet Bay picnic and short trails on the park’s south side, quieter than the main bridge viewpoints.
Wildlife
- •Harbor seals
- •Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Bowman Bay’s eelgrass and tide pools are fragile—stay out of eelgrass beds, avoid touching intertidal animals, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect habitat.
Deception Pass Bridge, completed in 1935, changed local travel and tourism; Indigenous Samish and Swinomish peoples used these waters for generations before the bridge united the islands.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the sheltered mouth of Bowman Bay for San Juan Island backdrops
- • Close to rocky shorelines and kelp beds to capture seal activity
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet during launch and when exploring rocky tide pools at the put-in.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, wallet, and layers dry on spray-prone outings.
Sun hat and polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and helps spot subsurface life like kelp and fish.
Light waterproof shell or windbreakerEssential
Shields you from wind and cool marine spray common in Puget Sound seasons.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—this trip is designed for beginners; guides provide instruction on paddling, steering, and safety before launch.
Are single kayaks available?
Not on this specific 90-minute Bowman Bay outing—operators run tandem kayaks only and ask single travelers to call for alternative trips.
What are the age and size limits?
Children under 3 are not permitted, and the operator recommends against participants over 265 pounds or taller than about 6'5"; call if you’re unsure.
How close will we get to the Deception Pass Bridge/currents?
This trip stays in sheltered Bowman Bay and avoids the turbulent channel under the bridge, so you’ll have safe, calm paddling and open views without strong currents.
What should I do about seasickness?
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication or natural remedies beforehand, and request a center seat in the tandem where motion is less pronounced.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; trips may also be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–2 hours
Location
Anacortes, Washington
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness who can sit and paddle for 90 minutes; little prior experience required.
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