Deception Pass - Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking
Location: Whidbey Island, Washington
Duration: 1 Day
Season: Spring - Fall
Distance: Play boating spot
Difficulty: Difficult


Deception Pass is one of Washington's favorite spots with visitors flocking to see the spectacular bridge and Pass, making it one of the most visited parks in the nation.
　
Because of Whidbey Island's temperate climate, many birds and waterfowl winter here, including an abundance of bald eagles. Fishing is popular in the area and tent and RV camping are available year round.
　
This area boasts giant old growth forests, 30 miles of hiking trails, 19 miles of saltwater shoreline, 3 freshwater lakes, and 246 campsites. Notable for its unusual variety of water environments, what better way to explore it, than in a kayak?
　
Most people just hop out of the car and head to the center of the Deception Pass Bridge, which connects Whidbey and Fidalgo islands. From that vantage, they snap pictures of sweeping views west toward the Olympic Mountains and east to Mount Baker.
　
But kayaking the waters of the Pass is truly an adventure. Not a beginner paddle, the pass offers opportunities to paddle in strong currents and develop an appreciation for tidal influence.
　
Paddlers need to know how to read a tide chart and plan their excursion around the tidal currents. Currents in the Pass can get up to 8 knots. Some people feel it's similar to paddling a river. There are strong tide rips around the south side of Deception Island. But north and south of the Pass there is plenty of open water for easier paddling.
　
Caution: Deception Pass has a lot of motor boat traffic. Be aware of motor boats when crossing or playing in the current, otherwise stay close to the shoreline and explore the numerous coves.
　
If you are going through the Pass, most paddlers use the route between Pass Island and Fidalgo Island on the north side of the Pass (called Canoe Pass). Motor boat traffic is usually on the south side of the Pass.

Location: From Seattle, drive 64 miles north on Interstate 5 to exit 230 (Anacortes/Burlington). Turn west on State Highway 20 and drive about 12 miles to the Whidbey Island junction. Proceed about six miles south on State Highway 20 to the Deception Pass Bridge. Cross the bridge onto Whidbey Island and drive south down the hill and at the bottom take a right into the campground. Continue past Cranberry Lake to the day-use parking lot on the coast and the put-in.
　
For a map, pictures and more info click on Deception Pass


See you on the water,
Greg