Lilly's Pad sits in Tahuya on Hood Canal in Mason County, providing beach access to this inland saltwater fjord. While specific documentation of the beach's etymology remains limited in readily available historical records, the name evokes the aquatic plant imagery common to waterfront locations. Tahuya is an unincorporated community positioned on Hood Canal at the mouth of the Tahuya River, surrounded by Tahuya State Forest providing extensive outdoor recreation opportunities. Hood Canal, despite its name, is a natural fjord rather than a man-made canal, carved by glaciers and extending approximately 80 miles into the Olympic Peninsula. The area maintains a friendly local vibe with shellfishing opportunities within minutes of the community and beach access points along the canal's shoreline.
Swimming opportunities exist in Hood Canal's protected saltwater during summer months, though water temperatures remain cool year-round typical of Puget Sound waters. Kayaking and canoeing launch from the beach for exploration of Hood Canal with routes along the fjord's shoreline, views of the Olympic Mountains rising to the west, and opportunities to observe marine wildlife. Shellfish harvesting attracts visitors during appropriate seasons and tide conditions, with clams, oysters, and other species available from Hood Canal beaches subject to health department regulations and licensing requirements. Beachcombing reveals shells, smooth stones, driftwood, and marine life along the shoreline. Fishing yields salmon during runs, rockfish, and other Puget Sound species. Wildlife watching includes harbor seals, bald eagles fishing and perching in shoreline trees, great blue herons, and diverse seabirds. The beach's proximity to Tahuya State Forest creates opportunities for combined water and forest recreation.
Hood Canal area dining offers options in Belfair and nearby communities. Hama Hama Oyster Company in Belfair operates as a family-owned shellfish farm serving fresh world-class oysters overlooking Hood Canal. Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport sits across from the Hoodsport Salmon Hatchery, harvesting fine oysters and clams for over a decade. The Tides on 101 serves as a local favorite breakfast hangout offering breakfast and lunch. A family-owned Italian food truck creates pasta dishes, meatball subs, clam chowder bread bowls, and fresh lobster shipped from Maine with outdoor seating and fireplace. JR's provides friendly atmosphere for watching games with cold drinks and homemade meals.
