EASTSOUND KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Sea, Shore, and a Snowcapped Backdrop: Kayaking Point Doughty from Eastsound
A 3.5-hour guided paddle from Brandts Landing Marina that follows Orcas Island’s north shore to Point Doughty, with beach time, wildlife viewing, and Mount Baker on the horizon.
Sea, Shore, and a Snowcapped Backdrop: Kayaking Point Doughty from Eastsound.
This Pt. Doughty Kayak excursion launches from Brandts Landing Marina in Eastsound and traces Orcas Island’s calm north shore toward the forested, remote coastline of Point Doughty State Park. Along rocky outcrops and hidden coves, paddlers routinely encounter seals, porpoises, eagles and other coastal birds before landing on Point Doughty’s beach to explore or relax beneath the distant silhouette of Mount Baker.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Frequent marine and coastal bird encounters
The route runs through productive nearshore waters where seals, porpoises and eagles are commonly seen—bringing wildlife viewing into the fabric of the paddle rather than an occasional aside.
A remote forested beach below Mount Baker
Point Doughty’s forested coastline and sandy beach provide a quiet landing and short wander, with the long, distant line of Mount Baker forming a dramatic backdrop to the shoreline scenery.
Calm island waters and a dynamic shoreline
Paddling along Orcas Island’s north shore takes you past rocky outcrops and hidden coves—ideal conditions for steady paddling and repeated viewing opportunities before a beach stop at Point Doughty.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
This roughly 3.5-hour outing is paced for easy coastal travel: a shoreward launch from Brandts Landing Marina, steady paddling through calm island waters beside a varied shoreline, a purposeful landing at Point Doughty to stretch legs and explore, then a return to the marina. The emphasis is on scenic, wildlife-rich paddling with time ashore to decompress.
THE WILDLIFE
Frequent marine and coastal bird encounters
The route runs through productive nearshore waters where seals, porpoises and eagles are commonly seen—bringing wildlife viewing into the fabric of the paddle rather than an occasional aside.
THE LANDSCAPE
A remote forested beach below Mount Baker
Point Doughty’s forested coastline and sandy beach provide a quiet landing and short wander, with the long, distant line of Mount Baker forming a dramatic backdrop to the shoreline scenery.
THE ROUTE
Calm island waters and a dynamic shoreline
Paddling along Orcas Island’s north shore takes you past rocky outcrops and hidden coves—ideal conditions for steady paddling and repeated viewing opportunities before a beach stop at Point Doughty.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this paddle suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for an approximately 3.5-hour excursion from launch through return.
Dress as for a day hike: light, warm layers; a windbreaker or light raincoat; sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Gratuities for the crew are optional.
Meet at 340 Brandt-Landing Rd, Eastsound, WA (Brandts Landing Marina) for check-in and launch.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The excursion is approximately 3.5 hours long.
Where do we meet?
Passengers meet at 340 Brandt-Landing Rd, Eastsound, WA (Brandts Landing Marina).
What should I bring?
Bring clothing layered for a day hike, a windbreaker or light raincoat, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and drinking water; gratuities for crew are optional.
Are there participant restrictions?
Yes. Minimum age is 13 years; maximum weight is 260 lbs per person; maximum height is 6'4".
What wildlife might we see?
Expect to see seals, porpoises, eagles and other coastal birds along the north shore route.
Where does the trip land for a break?
The tour lands on the beach at Point Doughty, where participants have time to wander, explore or relax before returning to the marina.