Escape the crowds and paddle your way through the serene waters of Stanwood and Camano Island with these hidden kayak launches and scenic routes.
Secret Kayak Launches & Scenic Routes Around Stanwood & Camano Island
Looking for a peaceful escape on the water? Whether you love kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, Stanwood and Camano Island have some incredible hidden spots waiting to be explored. These quiet launch points offer calm waters, gorgeous views, and a chance to unwind in nature—without the crowds. Grab your paddle and discover your new favorite place to float!
Secret Beaches & Waterfront Launch Spots
Address: 1013 Simonsen Place, Camano Island
Cavalero Beach County Park (Camano Island)
Glide through the peaceful, scenic waters on the east side of Camano Island—an ideal spot for a relaxing paddle. Whether you’re in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, the calm, sheltered waters and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains create the perfect backdrop for a gentle float or an easy day on the water—especially for beginners. The easy-access boat ramp makes launching simple, so you can spend more time enjoying the tranquility around you.
Launch fees are $5 for residents and $15 for non-residents, with annual passes available. The peaceful picnic area is a perfect spot to relax before or after your paddle—please be mindful of nearby homes.
Hamilton Landing (Downtown Stanwood)
Dive into the calm, scenic waters of Hamilton Landing—a perfect spot to dip your paddle into the Stillaguamish River. Tucked behind Twin City Foods, this inviting launch site features a gravel ramp that makes it easy to slide in your kayak or canoe. The river’s gentle current is ideal for beginners or anyone craving a laid-back float through Stanwood’s peaceful natural surroundings.
Take advantage of picnic tables, a walking path, restrooms, and breathtaking views—all set against the backdrop of historic lumber mill landmarks, including the iconic Hamilton smokestack. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned paddler, this spot offers a warm welcome to launch and unwind.
Address: 26810 98th Avenue NW, Stanwood
Address: 1139-1131 Beach View Lane, Camano Island
Maple Grove Boat Launch (Camano Island)
Find your ideal launch spot at Maple Grove Park, a peaceful gravel ramp nestled along Port Susan Bay beneath towering trees. The calm waters and stunning panoramic views of Whidbey Island, Skagit Bay, and the Cascades make it perfect for paddlers of all levels seeking a relaxing day on the water. The boat launch includes a single-lane concrete slab, handy at lower tides, with parking available for a few cars and trailers.
Take time to unwind with a picnic on the nearby beaches before or after your paddle and soak in the beautiful views—while kindly respecting the nearby homes.
Hat Slough (Stanwood)
Hat Slough is a paddler’s haven, offering a smooth concrete launch that leads straight into the quiet, meandering freshwater sloughs just outside Stanwood. Ideal for kayaks and canoes, this peaceful launch invites you to glide effortlessly through calm waters framed by tall grasses, overhanging trees, and seasonal wildflowers. Along the way, you’re likely to spot herons, eagles, ducks, and other vibrant birdlife that thrive in this lush, protected habitat. Whether you're seeking a solo escape, a peaceful outing with friends, or a gentle paddle to reconnect with nature, Hat Slough offers a quiet retreat that feels miles away from the hustle—yet it's just minutes from town
Address: 7726 Boe Road, Stanwood
Hidden Lakes for Serene Paddling
Address: W Lake Ketchum Road, Stanwood
Lake Ketchum (North of Stanwood)
Lake Ketchum offers a peaceful paddling escape just a couple miles north of Stanwood. This 26-acre public lake is perfect for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, with calm waters and beautiful surroundings that invite you to slow down and enjoy the ride. A single-lane concrete boat ramp off South Lake Ketchum Road provides easy access for small to medium-sized watercraft, making it a convenient spot to launch and explore. Whether you're out for a quiet solo paddle or a relaxing day on the water with friends, Lake Ketchum is a welcoming destination for all skill levels.
Sunday Lake (East of Stanwood)
Sunday Lake is a quiet, tree-lined gem perfect for a peaceful freshwater paddle. With a public, walk-in boat launch on the north side along Sunday Lake Road, it’s an easy spot to slip in your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and enjoy a slow, scenic glide across the calm water. Ideal for beginners or anyone looking to unwind, this small lake also offers the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles and herons—making every paddle a serene nature experience.
Address: 1630 Sunday Lake Road, Stanwood
Address: 14209 56th Avenue NW, Stanwood
Lake Shoecraft (Near Stanwood)
Lake Shoecraft is a tranquil paddling spot nestled in the beautiful Seven Lakes area just outside Stanwood. With forested shores and abundant wildlife, it’s an ideal place for kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders looking for a peaceful day on the water. The lake offers a well-kept gravel boat launch for easy access, making it simple to get your gear in and start paddling. Whether you’re enjoying a calm morning glide or a relaxed afternoon float, Lake Shoecraft invites you to unwind, explore, and immerse yourself in nature.
Quick Tips for Your Secret Paddle Adventures
Before you slip away to explore the peaceful paddling spots around Stanwood and Camano Island, keep these quick tips in mind to help ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable adventure. A little planning goes a long way when discovering these hidden gems!
- Check Tides & Currents: Use apps like NOAA Tides or Windy to plan your paddle.
- Safety First: Always wear a life jacket.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace and respect private properties.
- Plan Your Route: Be mindful of tides to avoid paddling against strong currents.
- Inform Someone: Let someone know your plans before heading out.
Whether you're gliding past driftwood-strewn beaches, winding through quiet salt marshes, or floating across a secluded freshwater lake, the hidden paddling spots around Stanwood and Camano Island offer a refreshing escape from the more crowded launch sites. These tucked-away treasures invite you to slow down, breathe in the beauty of the natural surroundings, and enjoy a more intimate experience with the water—perfect for a peaceful solo paddle or a quiet outing with friends.
Have a favorite hidden paddling spot?
Don’t worry—we’re great at keeping secrets! We’d love to hear about your paddling adventures, so feel free to stop by our office and share your stories. Need directions to these hidden spots or want to discover more local gems? Windermere is open 7 days a week, and we’re always happy to help you explore. And if you're ever curious about the local real estate market, we’re here for that too—always up for a good chat!
Written By Windermere Staff
