The Olympic Peninsula is full of places to visit, including the gorgeous Hood Canal area. Situated between the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, this area is full of activities for everybody. On this blog post you will find where to stay, what to do while you’re here, and what to expect.
Where Is The Hood Canal?
Across the Pugent Sound, the Hood Canal is tucked up on the southernmost area of the Olympic Peninsula. This area is especially unique because of the salt water, bringing marine life, home to oyster farms, and the Olympic mountains.
From Seattle: 2 hours
From Portland: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Where To Stay In The Hood Canal?
Located in Union, Washington is the Skytower AirBNB Rental. This is by far the most unique rental property I have had the pleasure of staying in. With three bedrooms, an indoor spa room, and a tower in the sky with views of the Hood Canal, it can’t be beat!
About The SkyTower
This unique AirBNB rental located in Union, Washington at the base of the Hood Canal. Built in 1970 by an architect, this rental is 2,400 square feet. After climbing 98 stairs to the top, there is a living room and half bathroom with a wrap around deck with views of the Hood Canal and Olympic Mountains. The home is full of natural light and feels like the largest treehouse I have ever stayed in!
Inside:
- 3 bedrooms with full bathrooms in each
- Basement recreation room with cozy couches and TV + games
- Full kitchen complete with outdoor grill
- Sparoom with hot tub
- Ping-pong, corn hole, and other games for sunny days!
The Spa-Room Inside SkyTower
This part of the house was easily my favorite. With views of the trees and a roof to keep you dry from the rain, the architect was smart to built this like it was!
What To Do In The Hood Canal
Depending on the time of year you visit the Hood Canal, activities are abundant! Hiking, hunting for oysters, and a popular scuba diving area.
Hiking
The southern point of Olympic National Park is located around the Hood Canal. Depending on the type of hiking you want to do, from easy to strenuous-this area is full of hiking. Keep in mind this changes as the weather does, so always check with the ranger station in advance for closures. It is $30 for a day pass to enter Olympic National Park.
Lake Cushman
Lake Cushman is a gorgeous area just 30 minutes from SkyTower. Depending on the time of year, this area is popular for kayaking, boating, fishing and picnicking during sunny days. The end of the forest road is the gateway to the staircase entrance to Olympic National Park.
Staircase Entrance Olympic Peninsula
Staircase is the southern eastern corner of Olympic National Park, a one hour drive from Olympia. There is a campground with 47 campsites, and popular hiking trails. If you’re looking for a hike to do with kiddos, we did the Staircase Rapids Loop, 2.1 miles long with 213 feet of elevation gain. Remember this is a national park so dogs aren’t allowed on trail.
Hamma Hamma Oyster Saloon
The Hood Canal area is home to many oyster farms. Depending on if you’re wanting to hunt for them yourselves, or just enjoy them and visit the farm, checking out the Hamma Hamma Oyster Saloon is worth a stop! We didn’t have a reservation while visiting in October, and had to wait 30 minutes on a Saturday for seating. If you want one of their A-Frame shelters, they are reservable for $75 and seat 6 people.
Where To Eat
This area doesn’t have an abundant amount of restaurants, so it is important to note prior to planning your trip to plan to cook meals like we did. However, there are a few spots in addition to the oyster saloon listed above.
- 2 Margaritas Mexican Food
- Hook and Fork-farm to table food. Reservations highly recommended
- Restaurant at The Alderbrook-located walking distance from the SkyTower, this is a fine dining experience.
- Union Square Deli- pizza and beer
Future Travel Inspiration
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