Your Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Bellevue and Lake Washington
Calm waters, mountain views, and convenient access make Bellevue a perfect home base for paddleboarding.
If you are looking for a summer activity that combines scenic beauty and gentle exercise, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to explore the waterways in and around Bellevue. From quiet wetlands to open lake paddling, there are several nearby launch points suited to both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Below are some of the top SUP spots in the area, along with details on rental options from Sturtevant’s, where you can gear up before you head out.
Why Go: Located near the I-90 bridge, this launch spot gives paddlers access to both Lake Washington and the 2.6-mile Mercer Slough water trail. Expect views of Seattle and a chance to see local wildlife
Tip: A good option for longer paddles toward Mercer Island
📍Luther Burbank Park (Mercer Island)
Why Go: A spacious 77-acre park with calm Lake Washington shoreline, scenic views of Bellevue, and wildlife-rich wetlands. Multiple quiet launch points make it ideal for SUP.
Tip: Use the north or south parking lots for easy access to the waterfront. Great for paddling near nature with fewer crowds.
Why Go: A small, lesser-known park with views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline. Less boat traffic than busier areas
Tip: Limited parking, so plan ahead
Why Go: This calm and protected bay in downtown Bellevue offers beginner-friendly conditions with expansive views of the Bellevue skyline, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier.
Tip: Early mornings are ideal for smooth water and fewer crowds
Why Go: Bellevue’s largest beach park offers a large dock, shaded picnic areas, and gentle water access. A good launch point for paddling toward Newport Shores
Tip: A family-friendly option with ample parking
📍Bonus Spot: Lake Sammamish
Just 20 minutes from Bellevue, Lake Sammamish offers wide-open space and multiple launch areas, including Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah. A great option for more experienced paddlers or group outings.
SUP Rental Information: Sturtevant’s – Bellevue
Located at 13131 NE 20th St, Bellevue, WA 98005, Sturtevant’s offers paddleboard rentals that include a PFD and paddle. Rentals are available for reservation or walk-in, but we recommend reserving in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. Walk-in rentals are subject to availability. Pricing varies by date and service level. Call 425-869-7669 for current availability. Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–7 pm, Sat–Sun 10 am–6 pm.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Safety and Tips
Before heading out, always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and secure your board with a leash for added safety. Check current wind conditions using WindAlert or a similar app, as wind can change quickly on Lake Washington. If you’re new to paddleboarding, start at beginner-friendly spots like Meydenbauer Bay or Mercer Slough, where the water is typically calm and protected.
When to Go
The best time of year to paddleboard in the Bellevue area is from June through September, when the weather is most reliable and the water is at its warmest. For ideal conditions, head out in the early morning when the water is calm and crowds are minimal—especially at popular launch points like Meydenbauer Bay or Enatai Beach. It’s best to avoid windy afternoons or paddling immediately after a storm, when lake conditions can be unpredictable.
What to Bring Paddleboarding
Before you hit the water, make sure you’re prepared with the right gear. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Paddleboard and paddle (rental or personal)
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
- Board leash
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Lightweight sun hoodies like the prAna Sol Searcher Sun Hoodie designed for long days on the trail, the water, or wherever the sun finds you. With built-in UPF 50+ protection, this lightweight layer keeps you covered without overheating. The breathable mélange jersey fabric moves with you, while thoughtful details like thumb holes and a high neckline add extra sun coverage and comfort.
- Dry bag for valuables
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- First Aid Kit like the Adventure Medical Ultralight / Watertight .5 Medical Kit
Need help finding the right launch point or checking rental availability? Contact Sturtevant’s – Bellevue for assistance with rentals, gear recommendations, and local tips for your next paddle outing.
Sturtevant’s is your year-round destination for outdoor gear and service. From stand-up paddleboards to ski and snowboard rentals, boot fitting, and tuning, we’re here to help you make the most of every season.
Whether you’re heading to Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, or the slopes at Crystal Mountain, our teams in Bellevue and Tacoma are ready to get you outfitted with the right gear and local insight to elevate your adventure.
Last updated: June 25, 2025
Your Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Bellevue and Lake Washington
Calm waters, mountain views, and convenient access make Bellevue a perfect home base for paddleboarding.
If you are looking for a summer activity that combines scenic beauty and gentle exercise, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to explore the waterways in and around Bellevue. From quiet wetlands to open lake paddling, there are several nearby launch points suited to both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Below are some of the top SUP spots in the area, along with details on rental options from Sturtevant’s, where you can gear up before you head out.
Why Go: Located near the I-90 bridge, this launch spot gives paddlers access to both Lake Washington and the 2.6-mile Mercer Slough water trail. Expect views of Seattle and a chance to see local wildlife
Tip: A good option for longer paddles toward Mercer Island
📍Luther Burbank Park (Mercer Island)
Why Go: A spacious 77-acre park with calm Lake Washington shoreline, scenic views of Bellevue, and wildlife-rich wetlands. Multiple quiet launch points make it ideal for SUP.
Tip: Use the north or south parking lots for easy access to the waterfront. Great for paddling near nature with fewer crowds.
Why Go: A small, lesser-known park with views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline. Less boat traffic than busier areas
Tip: Limited parking, so plan ahead
Why Go: This calm and protected bay in downtown Bellevue offers beginner-friendly conditions with expansive views of the Bellevue skyline, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier.
Tip: Early mornings are ideal for smooth water and fewer crowds
Why Go: Bellevue’s largest beach park offers a large dock, shaded picnic areas, and gentle water access. A good launch point for paddling toward Newport Shores
Tip: A family-friendly option with ample parking
📍Bonus Spot: Lake Sammamish
Just 20 minutes from Bellevue, Lake Sammamish offers wide-open space and multiple launch areas, including Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah. A great option for more experienced paddlers or group outings.
SUP Rental Information: Sturtevant’s – Bellevue
Located at 13131 NE 20th St, Bellevue, WA 98005, Sturtevant’s offers paddleboard rentals that include a PFD and paddle. Rentals are available for reservation or walk-in, but we recommend reserving in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. Walk-in rentals are subject to availability. Pricing varies by date and service level. Call 425-869-7669 for current availability. Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–7 pm, Sat–Sun 10 am–6 pm.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Safety and Tips
Before heading out, always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and secure your board with a leash for added safety. Check current wind conditions using WindAlert or a similar app, as wind can change quickly on Lake Washington. If you’re new to paddleboarding, start at beginner-friendly spots like Meydenbauer Bay or Mercer Slough, where the water is typically calm and protected.
When to Go
The best time of year to paddleboard in the Bellevue area is from June through September, when the weather is most reliable and the water is at its warmest. For ideal conditions, head out in the early morning when the water is calm and crowds are minimal—especially at popular launch points like Meydenbauer Bay or Enatai Beach. It’s best to avoid windy afternoons or paddling immediately after a storm, when lake conditions can be unpredictable.
What to Bring Paddleboarding
Before you hit the water, make sure you’re prepared with the right gear. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Paddleboard and paddle (rental or personal)
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
- Board leash
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Lightweight sun hoodies like the prAna Sol Searcher Sun Hoodie designed for long days on the trail, the water, or wherever the sun finds you. With built-in UPF 50+ protection, this lightweight layer keeps you covered without overheating. The breathable mélange jersey fabric moves with you, while thoughtful details like thumb holes and a high neckline add extra sun coverage and comfort.
- Dry bag for valuables
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- First Aid Kit like the Adventure Medical Ultralight / Watertight .5 Medical Kit
Need help finding the right launch point or checking rental availability? Contact Sturtevant’s – Bellevue for assistance with rentals, gear recommendations, and local tips for your next paddle outing.
Sturtevant’s is your year-round destination for outdoor gear and service. From stand-up paddleboards to ski and snowboard rentals, boot fitting, and tuning, we’re here to help you make the most of every season.
Whether you’re heading to Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, or the slopes at Crystal Mountain, our teams in Bellevue and Tacoma are ready to get you outfitted with the right gear and local insight to elevate your adventure.
Last updated: June 25, 2025
