Where can you go to admire the glittering city lights and iconic bridges of Portland, Oregon, paddle around an island, see incredible floating homes, all with the added chance of observing osprey, eagles, and even river otters? Look no further than the Willamette River.

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful places in the world to go flatwater kayaking. And whether you’re a visitor to the area or a resident, there are also many great places to rent a kayak within one hour of Portland, Oregon.

Need a kayaking spot within about 30 minutes of Portland, Oregon? One those staple always-a-good-time paddling experiences, with the ease of on-water kayak and SUP rentals, and a dynamite view of Mt. St. Helens on a clear sky day? Look no further that Scappoose Bay.

Basalt rocky formations, cool little channels to explore, and the chance to spot osprey, bald eagles, river otters, and more– all just a short, easy drive south of Portland, Oregon.