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Located in Portland’s Central Eastside, the Eastbank Esplanade is hub for outdoor recreation on the Willamette River.
Credit: Travel Oregon

Water Activities

Explore the Rose City's many river, pool and watering-hole adventures.

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Located in Portland’s Central Eastside, the Eastbank Esplanade is hub for outdoor recreation on the Willamette River.
Credit: Travel Oregon

With a major river smack-dab in the center of the city, it’s no surprise that Portland and the surrounding region offer an abundance of water-centric fun, from whitewater rafting and swimming to fishing and windsurfing.

Water Fun in Portland

Dive into the city's aquatic activities and water features.

Enjoy unparalleled views of downtown Portland on a stand-up paddleboard.

Where to Stand-Up Paddle Board Around Portland

Find a fresh perspective on local waterways with these paddling classes, lake tours and even SUP yoga classes.

Kayakers paddle on the Willamette River near downtown Portland.

Kayaking in and Around Portland

When the weather heats up, folks flock to the water. For paddlers, that typically means hitting one the many rivers in and near Portland.

Little ones love to splash in the public fountain at Peninsula Park in North Portland.

Portland’s Public Fountains

Cool off with free fun at these kid-friendly fountains in Portland.

Make a Splash in the Willamette River

The river, which bisects the city into east and west sides, is a virtual aquatic playground, with kayakers, fishers and swimmers enjoying the water.

Take a dip

Outside of Portland

These nearby attractions offer plenty of aquatic adventure.

Adventurers love the waves and windsurfing at the Columbia River Gorge.

Windsurfing in the Columbia River Gorge

Grab your board and head to the Columbia River Gorge, the windsurfing capital of the world, located a short drive east of Portland.

The Clackamas River is a perfect coho fishing spot close to Portland.

Fishing Near Portland

These four waterways — all less than an hour away from Portland — provide the perfect setting for your next fish tale.

A raft plunges into Husum Falls on the White Salmon River.

Whitewater Rafting Near Portland

Conquer rapids, spot wildlife and experience nature in a new way at these favorite spots for whitewater rafting near Portland.

Swimming Holes Near Portland

Stay cool all summer long at these serene swimming spots, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest — and all less than an hour away from Portland.

Jump in

Swimming & Soaking

Water activities or lazily floating fun for the whole family.

North Clackamas Aquatics Center features a wave pool, three slides and more.

Amusement & Water Parks

Portland and the surrounding region offer a variety of amusements and entertainments for the young and young at heart.

Dametris Harrison floats alongside swimmers near Waterfront Park.

The Big Float

Every summer since 2011, thousands of people swim and float in the Willamette River for the annual Big Float event.

Warm up in the waters of Deer Creek Hot Springs.

Soak It Up: Hot Springs Around Portland

Winter in Portland means plenty of rain, which is the perfect weather for fully appreciating a steamy dip in one of Portland's nearby hot springs.