The Waterfront Activities Center (WAC) is a University of Washington Recreation facility on the shores of Union Bay, the gateway to Lake Washington, located directly behind Husky Stadium and a short walk from the UW light rail station. From spring through fall, the WAC rents canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to both the UW community and the general public.
The boat selection accommodates a single paddler up to a group of four, giving visitors a range of options for exploring the Union Bay Natural Area, home to bald eagles, osprey, and various waterfowl, or paddling toward the Washington Park Arboretum’s protected waterways and hiking trails. Every rental includes a PFD and paddle, and a limited number of dry bags and day-use lockers are available to rent for protecting valuables.
General public rental rates run $21 an hour for a canoe, $25 an hour for a single kayak or paddleboard, and $29 an hour for a double kayak. UW students receive discounted rates ($15-21/hour), and UW employees receive a slightly higher discount tier ($18-24/hour) with a valid Husky Card. Canoes hold 1-4 people (3rd and 4th passengers must be children under 90 lbs), while double kayaks are limited to 2 people.
Hours are seasonal and weather-dependent, generally running Wednesday through Sunday from spring through early fall, with the facility closed entirely for UW home football games and typically closed for the winter from October through April. During peak hours (11am-5pm), the phone becomes automated with a recorded message about current rental status.
Beyond boat rentals, the WAC is also home to UWild Adventures’ Gear Garage and the Husky Rock outdoor climbing structure, and hosts private events with views of the Cascade Mountains and access to 350 feet of waterfront. Several student organizations, including the UW Concrete Canoe Team, Washington Yacht Club, University Kayak Club, and Union Bay Rowing Club, organize their activities at the WAC as well.
For visitors and UW community members looking to paddle Union Bay, Lake Washington, or the Washington Park Arboretum, the Waterfront Activities Center offers an affordable, well-located canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rental right on campus.
