If you’re looking for the perfect place to launch a paddleboard or kayak, Eagle Harbor delivers. It provides ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding thanks to its calm, protected waters. The harbor’s sheltered shape blocks wind and boat chop, making it perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. With scenic shoreline views and easy access from town, it’s one of the best spots in Puget Sound to get out on the water.
Eagle Harbor is just steps from the Marina District, a lively waterfront neighborhood known for its historic buildings, boutique shops, welcoming pub, and favorite local coffeehouse. Whether planning a day on the water or simply exploring on foot, everything you need is close at hand. Take a leisurely stroll along the Waterfront Trail, where you can admire boats bobbing in the harbor, watch the ferry glide in and out, and discover public art tucked along the way. It’s the perfect blend of island charm and maritime life. The district is an easy walk from the Winslow ferry terminal and downtown Bainbridge.
After your paddle on Eagle Harbor, unwind in one of our elegant guest rooms or townhome suites at our Bainbridge Inn. Just minutes from the Seattle-Bainbridge ferry, we’re the only Boutique Hotel in downtown, offering a uniquely comfortable stay in the heart of the island. With coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, local boutiques, and scenic waterfront trails all nearby in the Marina District, you’ll find plenty to enjoy from morning to night. Book your stay today!
Paddling Paradise: Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Eagle Harbor
Paddling on Eagle Harbor offers a unique way to experience the beauty and rhythm of Bainbridge Island’s waterfront. This natural fjord’s calm, protected waters are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a peaceful morning on the water.
As you paddle, you’ll take in views of classic waterfront homes, working marinas, and the ever-active ferry gliding in and out of the terminal. On a clear day, Mount Rainier and the distant Cascades provide a dramatic backdrop to your journey. Wildlife is part of the experience too; keep an eye out for harbor seals bobbing nearby, river otters along the shore, and eagles soaring overhead. Shorebirds dart between pilings and mudflats, adding to the sense of connection with nature.
Launch your paddle from the public dock at Waterfront Park, just a short walk from downtown. Exotic Aquatics, located at the City Dock, offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided excursions for those who want a more in-depth experience. Whether you’re out for a short loop or a longer adventure around Eagle Harbor, this stretch of water is as visually rich as it is accessible.
More Things to Do in the Marina District on Bainbridge Island:
- For more than 48 years, Dana’s on Bainbridge has been a beloved local shop for cards, gifts, home décor, puzzles, and unique finds. Conveniently located on Madison Avenue, just steps from our Bainbridge Inn, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a special keepsake to remember your island getaway.
- Grab a coffee at the iconic Pegasus Coffee, a Bainbridge staple since 1979 known for its small-batch, high-quality roasts. Housed in a historic ivy-covered building, Pegasus is more than just a café; it’s a place with deep roots in the community. Once a hardware store and later a registration site for Japanese Americans during World War II, the space carries a rich and complex history that adds depth to every visit.
- Stop by the Kelly Johnston Art Gallery and Studio, where the artist’s work is deeply inspired by the natural world and “the poetic interplay of sunlight on the water’s surface.” Her pieces beautifully capture the essence of the island’s landscape, especially the shimmering light of Eagle Harbor. You might even catch Johnston at work in her studio. Take home a print that reflects your own time on the water.
- If paddling isn’t your style but you still want to experience Eagle Harbor and the Salish Sea by boat, Sail Bainbridge offers the perfect alternative. Choose from various sailing adventures, including two-hour daytime cruises, magical bioluminescent tours, or relaxing sunset sails. It’s a memorable way to see the island from the water—no paddling required.
The Harbour Public House is a favorite island gathering spot in a renovated historic home overlooking Eagle Harbor. Known for its locally sourced pub fare, the menu pairs perfectly with a rotating selection of Northwest beers and ciders. Its cozy atmosphere and waterfront views make it an ideal place to unwind after a day of paddling.
Stay at our Bainbridge Inn in the Heart of the Marina District
Located in the heart of Bainbridge Island’s Marina District, our Bainbridge Inn offers an ideal home base for exploring everything the island offers. Just a short walk from the Seattle ferry and steps from Eagle Harbor, it’s perfectly positioned for kayaking, strolling the Waterfront Trail, or browsing local shops and galleries. With favorite spots like Pegasus Coffee, the Harbour Public House, and Dana’s Showhouse just around the corner, you’ll be immersed in the charm and culture of the island from the moment you arrive.
Guests enjoy various amenities designed to make their stay both comfortable and memorable. Each stay includes complimentary day passes to Island Fitness, allowing you to maintain your routine while traveling. Start your morning with coffee from Pegasus Coffee in the lobby, and unwind in the shared courtyard, a peaceful space perfect for reading, sipping wine, or simply soaking up the island atmosphere.
Our Bainbridge Inn features a collection of thoughtfully designed guest rooms and townhome-style suites, each offering a blend of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re staying in one of the intimate inn rooms or a spacious townhouse with a private entrance, you’ll find quality linens, modern bathrooms, and stylish coastal décor throughout. Every detail is chosen to reflect the relaxed sophistication of Bainbridge Island living. Reserve your room now!
