6 Waterfront Destinations in Washington to Beat the Summer Heat

Family travelers to Washington State can still enjoy summer without the stifling heat at these six waterfront locations throughout the state. Whether on the lake, ocean or river, Washington boasts countless waterfront destinations for outdoor fun, beautiful views and, most important, tolerable weather.

Kitsap Peninsula © State of Washington Tourism

Kitsap Peninsula

Separated from Seattle by Puget Sound, this peninsula offers an abundance of water activities and historical sites. Check out Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails, the only natural saltwater trail in the United States, to explore 371 miles of shoreline via paddleboard, kayak, canoe, boat or scuba diving. Other sites in Kitsap include Point No Point Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in Puget Sound; and Port Gamble, where shops, restaurants and even a tree farm await.

Gig Harbor

Also located on Puget Sound, Gig Harbor is a sunset lover’s paradise. Take a gondola ride or rent a kayak for an afternoon or evening in the water. You might even spot harbor seals! Gig Harbor also offers historic walking tours and the chance to encounter animals in touch tanks at Harbor Wildwatch.

© State of Washington Tourism

Tri-Cities

With wide-open spaces at the confluence of three rivers, this destination sees 300 days of sunshine every year. The Columbia, Yakima and Snake rivers converge here, providing numerous opportunities for travelers to enjoy the water and landscape. In addition to a marina, docks and piers, and walking trails, Tri-Cities also allows visitors to go kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as hiking and biking along the river paths.

Everett and Mukilteo

These waterfront towns in Seattle North Country celebrate summer not only because of its seaside activities and sites, but also because of new openings coming to the area. Visit Mukilteo ferry terminal or hit the beach to see Mukilteo Lighthouse. This destination also features Edgewater Beach.

© State of Washington Tourism

Anacortes

The crown jewel of Fidalgo Island, this town sits between Seattle, and Vancouver, Canada, and is also the destination point for the San Juan Islands and International Ferry runs. Its historic waterfront, 50 miles of hiking trails and boat rides make this town a family haven for summer. Sign up for a free boat ride on Fidalgo Bay with volunteers from Anacortes Yacht Club or help your child build his or her own toy sailboat before watching it launch in a large pool of water nearby. Cape Sante and Skyline Marinas features many whale-watching boats, while adventure seekers can rent kayaks and paddleboards from AWA.

Thurston County

Waterfront fun, outdoor adventure and cherry blossoms await in Thurston County. Here, families can visit parks like Squaxin Park or Percival Landing for scenic strolls and walks along the shoreline. Kids will love a trip to Puget Sound Estuarium to see octopus, anemone, sea stars and more.