South Sound Kayak Tours - Olympia, Washington

Jeanne S.

Doug and Ross were excellent tour guides. Three of us had a wonderful time and three hours went by quickly. Easy, fun, and a great way to get the full Pacific Northwest experience.

Jen B.

Ross did an amazing job giving us a tour to Hope Island. Such a perfect morning in the water. I will definitely recommend to all of my friends.

Lynda K.

Just did the 2+ hour tour of the Olympia waterfront - fantastic! As a first time kayaker Ross made sure I felt comfortable and safe, and that our time on the water was enjoyable. Had great conversation, saw tons of wildlife, and got to see a part of Olympia I'm very familiar with on land from a whole new perspective. Highly recommend for locals, visitors, experienced folks, or newbies like me. I will definitely use South Sound Kayak Tours again, and plan on joining one of their Hope Island trips next.

Raven

I had only kayaked once before this, but the ~3hr tour around Hope Island is very doable and lots of fun. Both Ross and Doug were friendly and very nice to chat with, and they provide just about everything you need (kayak, paddle, lifejacket, dry bags)—all you should probably bring is water/snacks.

Ross also provided some nice information on local wildlife and the surrounding geography. And near the end of our trip, a boat had hit a log and was subsequently in distress—Doug was wonderfully kind and went over to check on them, and even ended up towing them to shore with his kayak!

10/10 experience, I would definitely love to kayak with them again 😁

Heather H.

The tour and guides, Ross and Doug (I really hope I’m remembering their names correctly 😬), were awesome! I had kayaked a couple times before in smaller waterways with shallow water (4-5’ deep) but never in open waters, and was pretty nervous. After talking to the guys, I guess I felt confidence in them because I did it 🤣 and it I loved it!
They shared information about the area and local wildlife. They were both personable and funny. We did this on the first of a four day vacation, and we all agreed that we could go home that day and feel like we had had a satisfying vacation.
Oh and we did the 3-hour tour to Hope Island. The island is great with plenty to explore including a 4-mile hike and a shorter one, which we did because of time and accessibility. Also, there’s an apple orchard on the island where deer congregate come fall. I’m really hoping to get back up there sometime to see that!

Craig H.

We had an absolute blast on our kayak tour, guided by Ross and Doug. My family, are not experienced kayakers, but felt safe and in great hands. I felt like I met up with some old friends, when kayaking with these guys. We saw quite a few curious harbor seals and a few adorable raccoons scavenging for seafood at the shores of hope island. Both guides watched over us carefully and offered coaching advice and tips to improve your skills in the kayaks. Be prepared to get your feet a little wet when getting in and out of the water but be more prepared to have a great experience.

Leigh G.

I would give more stars if able 🙂 These guys are as genuine as they come. If you are nervous about the vulnerability of open water, but you 'really' want to try kayaking in Puget Sound, Ross and Doug are the team for you! We did the Hope Island Tour, and it was beautiful! Do not let age or inexperience stop you from enjoying this amazing adventure!

Judy M.

Took the 2 hour tour around the Olympia Waterfront today and had a wonderful experience.
My guide Ross was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area.
I highly recommend South Sound Kayak Tours and hope to get out and explore Hope Island on my next trip.
Thanks Ross!