How do I access Des Moines?

Des Moines is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Des Moines?

Des Moines supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Des Moines?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Des Moines?

The best time to paddle at Des Moines is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Des Moines?

Water conditions at Des Moines include sheltered, tidal.

Is Des Moines good for beginners?

Yes, Des Moines is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Boats docked in a marina with a seaplane wing.

Photo by Jim Petkiewicz on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Des Moines

Redondo, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Des Moines is a public boat ramp on Puget Sound near Redondo, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Puget Sound near Redondo, Washington. sheltered and tidal conditions.

Des Moines in Washington provides access to Puget Sound, offering sheltered paddling in a bay environment.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. The Pacific Northwest delivers lush, green waterways with reliable rainfall keeping rivers and lakes full.

Conditions here tend to be sheltered and tidal, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Redondo, Des Moines is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Redondo area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Des Moines ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Des Moines?: Des Moines is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Des Moines?: Des Moines supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Des Moines?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Des Moines?: The best time to paddle at Des Moines is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Des Moines?: Water conditions at Des Moines include sheltered, tidal.
Is Des Moines good for beginners?: Yes, Des Moines is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 47.3969, -122.3286