If you’re anything like we are, there’s nothing like being on the water – the wake, the sun (or the gray and mist, given that it’s Seattle), the time with friends and family. But having boating destinations is also a big part of what we love, too. Stopping for lunch or visiting a new part of town, finding a new corner of a lake to wakeboard – it’s all part of the fun. Without further ado, here are five of our top boating destinations around Seattle:

Lake Union restaurants

With plenty of great restaurants on Lake Union and Lake Washington with slips, the real challenge is figuring out where to go. Local favorites include Agua Verde, Chandler’s, and Ivar’s. But don’t take our word for it. Check out this article from Seattle Magazine.

Bell Harbor Marina

Take a different route downtown – by water! Tie up at Bell Harbor Marina after time on Elliott Bay to enjoy the best of downtown Seattle, from Pike Place Market, Anthony’s Pier 66, the Seattle Aquarium, the Big Wheel and more.

San Juan Islands

Take our Chapparal Signature 270 out for a night and visit the quintessential San Juan Islands. You’ll find it all here – rugged beauty, five-star resorts, rustic pubs, whales and more.

Bainbridge Island

Cross Elliott Bay to visit Bainbridge Island – an easy half-day trip with amazing views of Seattle. You can dock at Waterfront Park on a first come, first come serve basis, and then explore the town’s boutique shops and restaurants.

Poulsbo

Just 20 nautical miles from Seattle, Poulsbo is a great day-trip. Known as the “Little Norway,” this city is the perfect cruising destination for almost everyone.

Now that you’ve got some ideas for where to go – we hope to see you at Carefree Boat Club of Seattle soon! Give us a call at 206.567.BOAT and learn more about where our fleet can take you.