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Paddle into Adventure: Best Kayaking Spots in Thurston County WA

If there’s one thing I’ve learned living in Thurston County it’s this — there’s no better way to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature than getting out on the water. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo paddle or an afternoon adventure with the family, this corner of the Pacific Northwest has no shortage of beautiful kayaking spots. And the best part? You don’t have to drive far to find them.

As a real estate agent and long-time local who loves the outdoors, I’m always scouting the best places to enjoy our natural surroundings and I’m sharing a few of my favorite places to kayak right here in Thurston County.

🛶 1. Woodard Bay Conservation Area – Olympia WA

If you want calm waters, quiet paddling, and lots of wildlife, Woodard Bay is a must. This hidden gem feels like a secret escape just minutes from downtown Olympia. Keep an eye out for herons, seals, and bald eagles as you glide past old pier pilings and lush shoreline.

Local tip: Arrive early for parking and bring a pair of binoculars. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Search-friendly tags: kayaking in Olympia WA, best kayaking spots Thurston County, nature paddling near me

🛶 2. Black Lake – Tumwater WA

Black Lake is one of the most popular local spots for kayaking, paddleboarding, and family fun. The water is wide and calm with easy access from boat launches and parks. It’s a great choice for beginners or anyone just looking to relax on the water.

Local tip: Launch from Kenneydell Park for easy access and shaded picnic areas post-paddle.

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🛶 3. Nisqually Reach – South Sound Estuary Adventure

For more seasoned paddlers the Nisqually Reach offers an unforgettable experience. With views of Mount Rainier, miles of shoreline, and a mix of saltwater and freshwater wildlife, this is a bucket list paddle right here in our backyard.

Important: Check tide schedules before you go. This area can shift quickly with the tides.

Search-friendly keywords: Nisqually kayaking, advanced kayaking near Olympia, South Puget Sound kayak routes

🛶 4. Long Lake – Lacey WA

Long Lake is a calm and scenic place to spend a warm afternoon on the water. Locals love it for swimming and paddling and it’s especially great for beginners or casual kayaking trips.

Local tip: Launch from Long Lake Park and bring your cooler. There’s a great beach area to relax between paddles.

SEO keywords: Lacey WA kayaking, Long Lake paddling, family friendly kayaking Thurston County

🌲 Adventure and Community the Thurston County Way

I believe that living in the South Sound isn’t just about real estate. It’s about quality of life. That means finding moments to recharge in nature, make memories with the people you love, and enjoy the incredible environment we’re lucky to call home.

If you’re thinking about relocating to Thurston County or just want to live closer to the places you love to explore, I’d be happy to help you find the right place to call home.

Let’s connect and talk about where your next adventure could begin. On land or water.

📩 DM me or shoot me a message if you’re looking to make a move this season.

Guy DuVall

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    Spring Things: Best Spring Activities Around Olympia and the South Sound

    The PNW in spring? Unmatched. After months of gray skies and soggy trails, the sunshine starts to peek through, the trees wake up, and it’s finally time to trade in those rain boots for hiking shoes—or tulip-chasing road trips.

    Whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or you just moved to Olympia and want to explore like one, here are some of the best spring activities near Olympia, Lacey, and the South Sound to help you soak in the season.

    🌷 1. Visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

    A bit of a drive from Thurston County, but absolutely worth it. Every April, the Skagit Valley bursts into color with rows and rows of blooming tulips. It’s a photographer’s dream, a family favorite, and the perfect excuse for a spring road trip.

    Location: Mount Vernon, WA
    Season: Early to late April
    Pro tip: Go on a weekday if you can—less crowds, more blooms.
    👉 Learn more

    🌿 2. Explore Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

    Spring is one of the best times to visit this local gem. The birds are back, the boardwalk views are stunning, and everything feels alive again. Bring binoculars and take your time—you never know what you’ll spot.

    Location: Just outside Olympia in Nisqually
    Why go: Birdwatching, peaceful walks, family-friendly, lots of parking
    👉 Plan your visit

    🚶‍♂️ 3. Stroll Downtown Olympia’s Farmers Market

    From fresh flowers to handmade goods, the Olympia Farmers Market is one of the oldest in the state—and one of the best ways to support local. Spring brings new produce, live music, and that fresh-out-of-winter buzz.

    Open: Thursday through Sunday (Spring Schedule)
    Bonus: Grab lunch and eat outside with a view of the marina.
    👉 Market details

    🛶 4. Kayak or Paddleboard at Tolmie State Park

    On a calm spring morning, there’s nothing like launching from the beach at Tolmie and gliding along the water. It’s peaceful, it’s scenic, and it’s a reminder of why we live here.

    Tip: Check the tide charts and pack a thermos—it’s still PNW chilly out there.
    👉 Explore the park

    🌸 5. Go Cherry Blossom Spotting

    No need to go to Japan—Olympia and Lacey have their own pockets of cherry blossom magic. Check out Percival Landing, the Capitol Campus, or local neighborhoods that go all out each spring.

    Why it’s worth it: These short-lived blooms are stunning. Take a walk, snap some pics, and enjoy the soft pink takeover.

    🌼 6. Pack a Spring Picnic at Priest Point Park

    This park is a local favorite for good reason. Forest trails, Puget Sound views, and plenty of grassy space for a laid-back afternoon. Spring is perfect for a blanket, some snacks, and letting the kids (or dogs) run wild.

    Location: Just minutes from downtown Olympia
    Pro tip: Watch the tide come in—it’s a slow show worth sticking around for.
    👉 Park info

    🌞 Spring’s Calling. Are You Ready to Answer?

    Whether you’re adventuring solo, making new memories with family, or just soaking in the season, spring in the South Sound has a way of making you fall in love with where you live all over again.

    Thinking about putting down roots somewhere that gives you access to all this and more? Let’s connect. I’d love to help you find your next place to call home—right here in the heart of the PNW.

    📩 DM me or shoot me a message if you’re looking to make a move this season.

    Guy DuVall

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