Get On Board!

September 1st, 2013

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There are just a few weeks left of our beautiful NW summer, and one of the best ways to soak up the sun is out on the water on a paddleboard.

The Olympic Outdoor Center offers paddleboard rentals at its dock location in Eagle Harbor, just outside the Harbour Public House’s backdoor.

“Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) has kind of made a splash here in the Pacific Northwest,” said Olympic Outdoor Center’s business manager, Forrest Wells.  A longtime BI resident, Wells said a lot of the appeal of paddleboarding comes from the surf culture crossover.  It’s an awesome way to get out on a board and try something new.

“From a flat water standpoint, it’s a really great low-impact way to get out and about on the water, and have fun while doing it,” he said.

SUP yoga has also been making a splash.  If you’re looking to add an extra dose of serenity (plus an added degree of difficulty) to your yoga routine, try taking it out on the water! Local paddleboarding enthusiasts have come together to try programs offered through companies such as Olympic Outdoor Center, as well as to organize group paddles around the island through groups on Facebook.

Olympic Outdoor Center will be providing paddleboard rentals into September, as long as the weather cooperates.  Folks are welcome to take their rentals offsite, as long as they have a rack to transport the boards.  Wells recommends exploring Manzanita Bay, Port Madison, Hidden Cove, and other protected areas around the island.

To see a list of rates and hours, and to see what great paddleboard/kayak programs are offered, visit their website at www.olympicoutdoorcenter.com.

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