Explore the Waters of Washington

While the Washington coast is beautiful year-round, late summer is a particularly great time to escape to the coast or islands. Cool breezes and clean air make for a perfect getaway during these hot and smoky months. Check out these great resources for exploring Washington's waters, and learn about the creatures found there. 

Explore the Puget Sound & san juan islands

• Kayaking Puget Sound & the San Juan Islands: 60 Trips in Northwest Inland Waters, Including the Gulf Islands, 3rd Edition, by Rob Casey
• Afoot & Afloat: South Puget Sound and Hood Canal, 4th Edition, by Marge Mueller and Ted Mueller 
• Afoot & Afloat North Puget Sound & the Strait of Juan de Fuca, 3rd Edition, by Marge Mueller and Ted Mueller

Learn About Coastal Flora & Fauna

Foraging

• Pacific Coast Foraging Guide: 40 Wild Foods from Beach, Field, and Forest, by Jennifer Hahn

Mac's Field Guides

• Northwest Coastal Invertebrates
• Northwest Coast Fish
• Northwest Coastal Water Birds

Explore the Washington Coast

• Washington's Pacific Coast: A Guide to Hiking, Camping, Fishing & Other Adventures ,by Greg Johnston

Learn a water sport

• Sea Kayaking: Basic Skills, Paddling Techniques, and Expedition Planning, by Dan Henderson
• Stand Up Paddling: Flatwater to Surf and Rivers, by Rob Casey
• Surfing: Mastering Waves from Basic to Intermediate, by Elliot Almond

Main photo: A warren of sea caves as seen from the magnificent Cape Flattery Trail on the very northwest tip of the contiguous forty-eight states. Washington's Pacific Coast.