What makes a good dinghy beach?
- In my opinion, being able to get to shore without getting wet feet is a big plus.
- Rowing a short distance is high on my list, too.
- Having a way to tie up the dinghy is very handy, but not a deal breaker.
- Protection from wakes and rogue waves is obvious.
- Pea gravel is much better than sand or rocks or sea grass.
Scroll to the bottom for my number one and number two choices when sailing the San Juan Islands
When planning a trip to the San Juan Islands, choosing the right dinghy beach can make or break your experience. At first, I was simply going to list key features of good dinghy beaches, but then I realized that newcomers might need a heads-up—not all "good" dinghy beaches are worth visiting, and some "bad" ones might still be worth a stop.
Why the Right Dinghy Beach Matters
Even if you plan to stay at a dock, remember that dock space in the San Juans is not reservable. More often than not, you’ll need to anchor and go ashore by dinghy—and if the beach isn’t dinghy-friendly, it could seriously impact or even ruin your visit.
Considerations for Different Activities
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Camping – A poor landing spot could make unloading gear difficult or even dangerous.
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Hiking – If you're leaving your dinghy for the entire day, you'll need to ensure it's safe from rising tides, strong currents, or theft.
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Precautions – Some beaches require extra planning, such as a long rope, transport wheels, or even a chain and padlock to secure your dinghy properly.
Being prepared can make all the difference. A little foresight ensures that an inconvenient beach doesn’t turn into a major headache. Forewarned is forearmed!
In my opinion, a good dinghy beach simply allows you to get to shore and back to the boat with a minimum of fuss and bother, but there is a lot to consider
In no particular order, lets make a list of likes and dislikes.
