Olympia Area Rowing is situated on Budd Inlet, at the southern-most reach of Puget Sound. It is bordered by the stately trees of Squaxin Park, grand homes and cottages, marinas, restaurants and even a golf course. Gull Harbor, accessible only at high tide, is tucked away on the far side of a sand bar just to the northwest. The waters are home to playful harbor seals, perky geoducks (clams), and smacks of jellyfish, while eagles, herons, gulls and other water birds skim across the waves. Many mornings the water is flat/calm, with very little boat traffic. An ideal place for a morning row.
Our Programs
OAR offers competitive and recreational rowing opportunities to Adults and to Youth in 7th grade and above.
National Learn to Row Day
To get a taste of rowing, come participate in **free** National Learn to Row Day, which happens on the first Saturday in June every year. This is open to Adults and to Youth 13 and older. Find more information here: National Learn to Row Day
Youth
For kids, we have summer camps open to both beginners and experienced rowers. Fall and spring seasons are the competitive rowing seasons and offer further skill development and, of course, friendship and teamwork. Winter season is strength and stamina development through land workouts. There are opportunities to race in scrimmages and regattas in each season. More details can be found below.
High School Team (Spring 2025)
Middle School Team (Spring 2025)
Summer Camps (Summer 2025)
Adults
For adults, we offer Learn to Row classes during the spring and summer, both sculling (two oars per person) and sweeps (one oar). We also offer Private Lessons for those who prefer to learn in a 1:1 environment with an instructor, or if their schedules don’t mesh with the class offerings. Much more detail is available here. Adult Rowing
Youth of color and those facing socio-economic barriers are encouraged to apply.
Before you sign up…