About halfway between the northern entrance to Budd Inlet and its southern terminus lies the Olympia Shoal. If you've ever referenced a tide guide for Budd Inlet, you've undoubtedly seen a reference point for the Olympia Shoal. The shoal is a shallow area that pushes the channel towards the western shore near Butler and Little Tyee Coves near channel marker number 4. Hilariously, the South Sound Sailing Society recognizes "those intrepid sailors who have located this feature without, or despite of, navigational aids and local knowledge" with membership into the Order of the Olympia Shoal. For paddlers, it's a beautiful destination in a round trip that covers the westside log boom, Butler Cove, and Priest Point Park on the return. In all, it's just under 5 nm - not too bad for covering most of the southern half of Budd Inlet.
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| The Award for the Order of the Olympia Shoal |
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| The Hazard at the Olympia Shoal |
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| A circuitous route around the lower half of Budd Inlet |
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