Boat trips on Lake Tapps

Lake Tapps is a lake in Pierce County, southeast of Seattle. The city of Bonney Lake sits on its shore. There are no big ships and no tides, and the coves are sheltered, so it's a favorite for wakesurfing and wakeboarding.

With Nohana you book a seat on a local captain's trip. You don't need your own boat or a group big enough to fill one.

Good to know before you go

• Season. Lake Tapps is a managed reservoir, and its water level is lowered after summer. Most trips run from late spring to early fall.
• Best time of day. The water is often smoothest in the morning, before the afternoon boat traffic. Morning trips are popular for first-time wakesurfers.
• Meeting point. Captains meet guests at a dock or a private launch on the lake. Your listing shows the exact meeting point on a map, and the app gives you directions.
• Lake water. Summer water is warm enough for most people to ride without a wetsuit, but bring a warm layer for the ride back.

What to bring

• A swimsuit and a towel
• Sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap
• A warm layer or a light jacket
• Water and a snack, unless the listing says they're included

Each listing lists the safety equipment on board. Your captain gives a safety briefing before you ride and decides if conditions are right to go.

Who it's for

Lake Tapps trips suit first-timers and regulars alike. If it's your first time behind a wake boat, say so when you message your captain after booking.

Things to do on Lake Tapps

• Wakesurf

  Ride the wave behind the boat with no rope once you're up. Great for first-timers.

• Wakeboard and Water Ski

  Towed sports behind the boat: wakeboarding, water skiing and the jumps in between.

• Cruises

  Sunset and sightseeing trips for anyone who just wants to be on the water.