A Perfect Weekend in Union, WA (2-Day Itinerary)

A relaxed two-day Hood Canal itinerary based in Union, WA — oysters, kayaks, a hike, and a sunset you won't forget.

Union sits on the "great bend" of Hood Canal, where the fjord turns east and the Olympic Mountains line up perfectly across the water. It's the ideal base for a weekend — close enough to Seattle for a Friday-evening arrival, quiet enough to feel a world away. Here's how we'd spend 48 hours.

Friday evening: arrive and settle in

Roll in before dark, drop your bags at your waterfront home, and take the first walk down to the dock. Pick up provisions and a dozen oysters on the way in, then keep dinner simple — the view is the main course. Watch the light fade over the Olympics and turn in early; you'll want the morning.

Saturday: water, then trail

Morning — get on the canal

The water is calmest at sunrise. Launch a kayak or paddleboard straight from the dock and explore the shoreline while it's still and quiet. Keep an eye out for seals and eagles.

Midday — oysters and lunch

Head toward Hoodsport or Lilliwaup for a stop at Hama Hama, or shuck your own haul back at the house if the tide cooperates.

Afternoon — a taste of the Olympics

Drive up toward Lake Cushman and Staircase for an easy old-growth walk along the Skokomish River, or push higher toward Mount Ellinor if you want the big view.

Evening — sunset and a proper dinner

Back at the house, this is the night for a private chef or a long grill session on the deck. The sunset from Union is the kind people plan trips around.

Sunday: slow morning, easy exit

No alarms. Coffee on the dock, one more beach walk at low tide, and maybe a lazy paddle before checkout. If you've got time, stop by Alderbrook or a local tasting room on the way out. You'll already be planning the next trip.