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Sea Kayak - Gig Harbor Triple Cross

Moderate paddle launching from Owen Beach/Point Defiance in Tacoma, with a first break at Gig Harbor, then lunch at Sunset Beach before crossing to Vashon Island and back to Owen Beach. Break at Spring Beach in Vashon Island included time to practice rescues and rolls.

Sandra Villagarcia Sandra Villagarcia
July 07, 2025
  • Road suitable for all vehicles

  • Conditions were calm with minimal wind, current and waves. Partly sunny day. Boat traffic got busier in the afternoon. 

8 am meet up time allowed for parking close to the beach park. Wheels were used to bring boats onto the sand.

First stop at Sanskie Brother's Park in Gig Harbor has nice/newer bathrooms. There is a small beach for landing, look for cement steps next to the Netshed historic building.

Sunrise Beach 1 nm North of Gig Harbor has 2 nice picnic tables in the woods/shade with nice views Follow the short trail uphill. Port-a-potty available next to the parking lot above.

Spring beach on Vashon Island, East from Sunrise Beach, has pristine beach to practice rescues and rolls. No bathrooms.

We run into an abandoned stranded motor boat at the South end of Vashon  und Dalco Point. 

Group maintained single line formation entering/exiting Gig Harbor to stay away from other boats entering/exiting narrow space. Group used parallel formation (trip assistant leaders on both ends) for crossings to avoid spreading out, and to ensure we were visible to other boats and easy to get around.

Eagles, seals, and marine births were observed.