EASTSOUND KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Sunset Paddle Along Orcas Island’s Wild North Shore
A guided, 3-hour sunset kayak tour launching from Eastsound’s North Beach (Brandts Landing Marina) that follows Orcas Island’s northern shoreline to Point Doughty State Park for wildlife viewing and a dusk finish on the water.
Sunset Paddle Along Orcas Island’s Wild North Shore.
Set out from Brandts Landing Marina on a three-hour guided sunset kayak that threads the rugged northern shore of Orcas Island toward the remote, water-access-only Point Doughty State Park. The route offers more than two hours of paddling along a varied coastline where wildlife sightings are common, and finishes with a calm, shoreline sunset viewed from the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
North Shore to Point Doughty
The guided outing follows Orcas Island’s northern shoreline from Eastsound’s North Beach toward Point Doughty State Park, a stretch that requires water access and provides an extended paddle along varied coastal terrain.
Frequent Wildlife Sightings
Paddlers should expect a region where wildlife encounters are common; the tour’s sheltered route along Orcas Island’s north shore provides ample opportunity to watch coastal species from the relative quiet of a kayak.
Finish at Dusk, on the Water
After exploring toward Point Doughty, the group returns at dusk to take in a sunset seen from the water — a deliberate, serene ending crafted into the three-hour itinerary.
What the day feels like
The Flow of the Paddle
This guided outing balances steady on-water time with moments to pause and observe: launch from Brandts Landing, settle into a two-plus-hour paddle along the island’s northern face toward the isolated Point Doughty, scan for wildlife, then turn back to arrive at the water’s edge as the day slips into sunset.
THE ROUTE
North Shore to Point Doughty
The guided outing follows Orcas Island’s northern shoreline from Eastsound’s North Beach toward Point Doughty State Park, a stretch that requires water access and provides an extended paddle along varied coastal terrain.
THE WILDLIFE
Frequent Wildlife Sightings
Paddlers should expect a region where wildlife encounters are common; the tour’s sheltered route along Orcas Island’s north shore provides ample opportunity to watch coastal species from the relative quiet of a kayak.
THE SUNSET
Finish at Dusk, on the Water
After exploring toward Point Doughty, the group returns at dusk to take in a sunset seen from the water — a deliberate, serene ending crafted into the three-hour itinerary.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and where limits apply.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs three hours total with roughly two or more hours of paddling along the north shore before returning at dusk.
Meet at 340 Brandt-Landing Rd, Eastsound, WA (Brandts Landing / North Beach) for check-in and launch preparations.
Bring appropriate layered clothing for a day hike (light warm layers), a windbreaker or light rain coat, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and drinking water; gratuities for the crew are optional.
Guests must be at least 13 years old; maximum weight per person is 260 lbs and maximum height is 6'4" — these limits help ensure safe kayak fit and operation.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sunset kayak tour?
The tour lasts three hours total, with approximately two-plus hours spent paddling along the north shore and toward Point Doughty.
Where do we meet and launch?
The group meets at 340 Brandt-Landing Rd, Eastsound, WA (Brandts Landing / North Beach) to check in and launch.
What should I bring?
Bring layered clothing suitable for a day hike, a windbreaker or light rain coat, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and drinking water; gratuities for the crew are optional.
Are there age or size restrictions?
Yes — participants must be at least 13 years old; the operator lists a maximum weight of 260 lbs and maximum height of 6'4" per person.
Will we see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common along the route as the tour follows Orcas Island’s northern shoreline toward Point Doughty, which is known for productive coastal habitat.
Is the trip suitable for beginners?
Yes — the guided format is described as ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers, with instruction and pacing appropriate for less experienced guests.