Are you going on a trip to the Evergreen State? Or maybe you're a local looking for new hot spots? Whichever the case, we love boating in Washington State, and the rest of the country does too!
Why Boating in Washington State is So Popular
Before we dive into our favorite lakes, our Washington State boating guide would only be complete by mentioning why boaters flock here. Recreational boating is common because there are many places to get out on the water! Like a postcard, the Mount Rainier State is naturally beautiful and has over 7,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.
Since there are many types of waterways, watersports are very popular in this region. Try whitewater rafting on the Skykomish River, kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing – there's something for everyone!
And if you love angling, boating in Washington State is the perfect trip for you. Spend a week catching salmon, rainbow trout, flounder, and bullhead. There are tons of fishing tournaments, too.
How to Get Your Boat License in Washington State
In the Evergreen state, you typically need a Boater Education Card if you're 12 or older and operating a vessel with a 15hp or greater motor. (Unless you have certain exemptions like being a commercial fisherman or renting a boat.)
To get your boat license in Washington State, take a boater education course, and once you've passed, always have it on hand while onboard! The worst-case (and unfortunately common) scenario is having a valid license but leaving it at home.
Best Lakes for Boating in Washington State (And Other Waterways)
1. Lake Crescent
Washington State is famously known for its outstandingly beautiful Olympic National Park. You've probably seen it in the background of movies, and it's truly unimaginable. And here lies Lake Crescent, a body of water created by melting glaciers!
Boaters love Lake Crescent for a much-needed escape because it has stunning views and is known to be huge, deep, and very blue. (Bring your camera!) Plus, there are at least two boat launches. And if you're into sailing, this area is a must-see because it's a popular pastime among locals.
2. Lake Chelan
With over 50 miles of lake to cover, it's no surprise Lake Chelan is on our list of the best lakes for boating in Washington state. Full of opportunities for exploring – you can easily spend all week here on your boat or personal watercraft, kayaking, tubing, or cruising.
It's a fishing paradise, and visitors can cast a line year-round. And our favorite part? You can use this lake to access the North Cascades National Park. (Where you can see glaciers!)
Read Next: Catch and Release Fishing Guide
3. Cle Elum Lake
About an hour and a half east of Seattle, Cle Elum Lake is beyond scenic. You've probably never seen anything like it! First, it has a largely undeveloped shoreline and is so close to the mountains – you can almost touch them. Plus, it's the second deepest lake in the state (the first is Lake Chelan), meaning more room, less risk of grounding, and more marine life to look at!
Fishing is a year-round activity here, but the boat launch closes after mid-summer due to reservoir drawdown. However, anglers can still enjoy catching mackinaw (lake trout), brook trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish. In fact, the state encourages anglers to catch and keep as many mackinaw as possible to help manage the lake's ecosystem.
4. San Juan Islands
Have you ever been whale watching? Because the San Juan Islands are the place to do it! Known for its natural beauty and different wildlife species, these islands are great for boating. You can see orcas, humpback whales, seals, bald eagles, and many more. And watersports like kayaking are popular here, too!
Many people choose to rent and charter boons on these islands, but you can also find a rent slip for longer-term moorage if needed. We highly recommend this spot if you're ever boating in Washington state.
5. Lake Washington
Would this be a list of the best lakes for boating in Washington State if we didn't talk about Lake Washington? Nestled between Bellevue and Seattle, this area is a giant angling hotspot – just watch out for the zone-fishing closures!
We had to include this in our Washington State Boating guide because it's very welcoming to boaters! There are multiple fuel docks, launches, parks to anchor, and places to moor your vessel for the day and grab a bite. It's truly a dream.
Washington State Boating Guide: Visit the Evergreen State
Now that we've discussed all the hot spots and how to get your boating license in Washington State, the real question is, when are you taking your next trip? We recommend late August, as the water is the most temperate around that time!
But if you go in the early summer or chillier months, remember to wear a life jacket while swimming. You should always wear them onboard, especially when the water is cold and you plan to swim. Many visitors, especially from southern states, don't realize that the water's cold temperature can make swimming much harder if you fall in. (Due to cold incapacitation.) So, most people wear wetsuits!
Additionally, if you're looking for more sailing destinations, check out our other boating destination guides! They're packed with helpful information to help your next getaway.
