When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Eddy Marina Inc
Why Big Eddy Marina Inc is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Eddy Marina offers an exceptional setting on the Columbia River, renowned for its peaceful and scenic waterfront environment that makes it an ideal gathering place for friends and boating enthusiasts. Located near the east side of Portland at river mile 117, the marina is a gated floating home community featuring well-maintained boat slips and floating homes for year-round living. The tranquil ambiance and unique marina lifestyle attract those looking to escape the bustle of urban life while enjoying access to premier boating and fishing opportunities. Highlights include a secure, touchscreen entry gate system, clean docks accommodating boats up to 45 feet, and safe parking for trailers and vehicles, which ensure convenience and peace of mind for visitors. The marina also provides a modern fish cleaning station that adds value for sports fishermen. Its proximity to fueling stations at 42nd Street Gas docks and Port of Camas-Washougal enhances convenience for boaters. Residents and visitors appreciate the combination of privacy, security with nightly patrols, and a community atmosphere centered around the river’s natural beauty. The marina’s absence of retail or fueling services means guests benefit from an uncluttered environment focused specifically on boating and floating home living. Overall, Big Eddy Marina presents a distinctive and welcoming place to meet up with friends for boating adventures or quiet riverside enjoyment.
Here's what people think of Big Eddy Marina Inc
As of recent, Big Eddy Marina Inc holds a 4.5-star rating based on 79 reviews.
User reviews highlight Big Eddy Marina's strong appeal to boating and fishing enthusiasts, with an overall high rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 79 reviews. Positive feedback commonly praises the marina's well-maintained, updated docks, secure and gated environment, and the peaceful setting on the Columbia River. Many users appreciate the ease of access via the touchscreen gate system and the ample, safe parking for trailers and vehicles, which reduces typical hassles experienced at public boat launches. The fish cleaning station receives particular recognition for adding convenience to fishing trips. Additionally, the marina's private launch and close proximity to the river provide quick access that customers value highly. On the downside, some reviews mention the lack of live-aboard slip options, as well as the absence of fueling, licensing, and on-site stores for boat parts or food services, which may inconvenience some boaters. A few users note that while the community offers floating homes, these are only for year-round residents or seasonal leases, which limits options for transient boaters. Despite these critiques, the majority of users conclude that Big Eddy Marina delivers excellent service and a well-maintained, friendly atmosphere for recreational boating and floating home living. The community-centric yet private environment, combined with practical amenities, secures its reputation as a top choice for Columbia River mariners and anglers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Paul Baldassarre
Great place to live.
walter curl
my old boss used to have a house boat here and we did work on several structures here including the new(at the time) walkway. people there now are rude selfish and unwilling to help someone coming down river with an emergency. they can go to hell. Did I mention this is a private marina so don't even try to stop here for help because all they will do is take your picture and walk away leaving you locked inside their secure coded gate
Dan Muller
Went for a ride up the Columbia River with an old friend.
Ken Maio
We have been moored here year-round for the past 2 years and believe this is the best moorage on the Columbia River in the Portland metro area period. The maintenance on the common areas is as close to perfection as it gets. The location is spot on as well offering great access to the river and yet protected behind a sheltering island. Floating restaurants and fuel facilities are a quick ride upriver and offer great views of Mt Hood on the trip. The community of houseboat residents and like-minded boaters is great too. We feel very lucky to have chosen Big Eddy as our port of call
Michael Lewis
It was great! Don't care for the low river levels so much , makes the ramp pretty steep.
How to reach Big Eddy Marina Inc
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Why Big Eddy Marina Inc may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Eddy Marina with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing calls for a location that offers natural beauty, versatile activities, and a relaxing ambiance, all of which Big Eddy Marina delivers in abundance. Nestled on the serene Columbia River east of downtown Portland, Big Eddy Marina provides a peaceful escape from the daily grind while offering easy river access that makes boating and fishing the centerpiece of any group outing. The marina’s gated, private setting ensures a secure and hassle-free environment, allowing you and your friends to focus on enjoying the stunning waterfront views and recreational opportunities. Whether your group consists of avid fishermen, boating enthusiasts, or people simply looking to unwind by the water, Big Eddy’s blend of modern dock facilities, a fish cleaning station, and secure trailer parking adds convenience that enhances your entire experience. Moreover, the community vibe here encourages camaraderie, making it a perfect backdrop to bond over shared adventures on the water while soaking in the natural grandeur of the Columbia River. All these advantages combine to make Big Eddy Marina an ideal rally point for groups seeking a blend of nature, recreation, and relaxation.
What activities are available at Big Eddy Marina for groups?
Big Eddy Marina offers a variety of activities that cater especially well to groups of friends or family who want to spend quality time together outdoors. The marina is especially popular among sports fishermen thanks to its proximity to rich fishing grounds and a dedicated fish cleaning station that makes post-catch preparation easy and social. Boating is another key activity here, with clean, updated docks capable of accommodating boats up to 45 feet, allowing your group to embark on fishing trips or leisurely cruises along the Columbia River. Unlike crowded public launches, Big Eddy provides private boat slip rentals, drastically reducing wait times and logistical headaches, which lets your group maximize time on the water. For those who don’t have boats but want to enjoy the river setting, the marina’s floating home community presents a unique opportunity to experience waterfront living lifestyles, whether by visiting a friend’s floating home or considering longer stays. Evening visits can be magical as gentle dock lighting and nightly security create a safe yet picturesque setting to relax, share stories, and enjoy nature’s ambiance together. Altogether, these offerings make every group outing both enjoyable and effortless.
Why is Big Eddy Marina perfect for a group meetup?
Several attributes make Big Eddy Marina ideally suited for hosting group meetups. Firstly, its location on the Columbia River provides a stunning natural environment that combines water views, fresh air, and a calm atmosphere, perfect for conversations and unwinding away from urban noise. The marina’s status as a gated, secure community gives you peace of mind when parking vehicles or trailers, allowing everyone to come and go without worries. Convenience is high on the list here — private boat slips eliminate the typical wait and parking struggles associated with public ramps, speeding up your plans to get out on the river. Big Eddy’s amenities are thoughtfully designed for groups, including the fish cleaning station, which facilitates communal fishing activities without creating a mess or inconvenience. Docks with power pedestals and water hookups are ideal if your gathering extends over several hours or even days, allowing use of onboard features comfortably. Also, the absence of live-aboard slips means the marina maintains a recreational ambiance suited to short-term visits, making it feel more like a retreat. This blend of practical features and a welcoming environment makes Big Eddy Marina a top choice for anyone looking to coordinate group activities by the water.
How does Big Eddy Marina support boating and fishing needs?
Big Eddy Marina is tailored to meet the specific needs of boaters and fishermen, which elevates it as a top marina destination on the Columbia River. It features well-maintained docks constructed on steel pilings, ensuring stability and durability while accommodating boats up to 45 feet. The marina offers seasonal and year-round boat slip rentals, with special leasing options for peak fishing seasons in spring and fall, allowing groups to plan visits strategically. Boaters appreciate the marina's touch-screen entry gate system, which speeds entry and exit and promotes a secure environment. For anglers, the marina’s updated fish cleaning station is a standout feature, providing a clean, convenient space to prepare catches, fostering a communal fishing experience among friends. The availability of cable TV and power pedestals with dual 30 amp circuits at slips adds an element of comfort, allowing boats to stay powered and connected while docked. Although the marina lacks fueling and licensing services onsite, close fueling stations nearby ensure that boaters are well supported. These features make Big Eddy Marina a comprehensive choice for fishing and boating enthusiasts visiting the Columbia River.
What amenities enhance the guest experience at Big Eddy Marina?
Big Eddy Marina is designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience through a range of modern amenities that make time spent at the marina enjoyable and effortless. Security is a priority, with a gated entrance and nightly patrols providing a safe environment to relax. Parking is ample and secure, accommodating boat trailers and vehicles without hassle, which is essential for group visits where multiple cars and trailers travel together. The docks feature indirect lighting that creates a welcoming ambiance after sunset, perfect for evening gatherings or quiet reflection by the water. Utilities at the marina include water and power pedestals with 30 amp circuits to service larger boats, along with cable TV access for floating home residents or longer stays. Natural gas is available for the floating homes in the community, emphasizing comfort for residents and longer-term visitors. While the marina itself does not offer on-site fueling, food service, or a store, nearby facilities ensure close access to these essentials without detracting from the peaceful setting. Altogether, these amenities create a well-rounded, pleasant environment suitable for hosting friend groups or family meetups.
Where is Big Eddy Marina located, and why is this location advantageous?
Big Eddy Marina is situated on the eastside of Portland, Oregon, specifically on the south side of the Columbia River near river mile 117. Its proximity to Portland offers easy access for day trips or weekend excursions for city dwellers and visitors alike. This location benefits from the natural beauty and recreational richness of the Columbia River, one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier fishing and boating routes. Being slightly removed from the bustle of downtown Portland, Big Eddy provides a quieter, more serene environment without sacrificing accessibility. The marina’s setting near established fuel docks and other boating services means visitors can rely on nearby facilities for essential needs without compromising the peaceful atmosphere of their stay. For groups, this advantageous location combines the best of convenience, natural surroundings, and outdoor activity options, making Big Eddy Marina an excellent hub for memorable social gatherings.
What should groups know about the community aspects of Big Eddy Marina?
Big Eddy Marina is more than just a boat dock; it is a gated floating home community that fosters a unique waterfront living experience and close-knit neighborly connections. Residents and boaters alike enjoy a lifestyle centered on simplicity, peace, and an appreciation for the river’s natural environment. This community aspect contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging camaraderie among visitors and residents during meetups. The lack of live-aboard slips ensures that the marina retains its recreational and residential balance, focusing on short-term visits and seasonal enjoyment rather than continuous transient stays. Guests attending group gatherings thus benefit from a safe and stable environment where the pace of life is unhurried and focused on outdoor enjoyment. The managers are approachable and responsive, facilitating smooth planning and coordination for those interested in renting slips or learning about floating homes on site. In this way, Big Eddy Marina offers a sense of community that enhances group experiences and connects people through shared appreciation of river life.
How does Big Eddy Marina compare to other marinas for hosting group meetups?
Compared to other marinas along the Columbia River and in the greater Portland area, Big Eddy Marina distinguishes itself through its blend of privacy, convenience, and a peaceful setting that many public marinas lack. Its gated access and secure trailer parking reduce common stressors such as safety concerns and parking challenges, which often complicate group visits elsewhere. The updated, well-lit docks and fish cleaning station cater directly to fishing groups, streamlining the often messy task of cleaning fish and turning it into part of the social event. Moreover, Big Eddy’s closeness to abundant fishing spots and easy river navigation options gives groups quick access to high-quality boating experiences without wasted time. While some marinas offer on-site fuel and stores, the trade-off at Big Eddy is the tranquil and uncrowded environment that is perfect for those prioritizing atmosphere and easy river access over commercial amenities. These characteristics make Big Eddy Marina a standout choice when your goal is a smooth, enjoyable group day on the water.
What type of groups and occasions are best suited for Big Eddy Marina?
Big Eddy Marina’s facilities and atmosphere make it highly suitable for a variety of group types and occasions. Outdoor enthusiasts, particularly fishing clubs or boating groups, find the location ideal for organizing fishing tournaments or group boating trips due to the marina’s excellent river access and fish cleaning station. Family reunions or casual friend meetups centered on enjoying nature’s calmness are equally well served, as the serene environment invites relaxation and meaningful social interaction. Floating home owners and their guests also use the marina as a gathering place for celebrations or seasonal get-togethers, creating opportunities for extended stays with access to utilities and comfortable dockside amenities. Because the site does not feature live-aboard slips or commercial services, it is less suited for long-term vacationing without prior arrangements, but perfect for day visits or short-term recreational gatherings. Events focused on outdoor leisure, fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the river setting work best here, making Big Eddy Marina a versatile destination for group hospitality.
How can you plan a successful meetup at Big Eddy Marina?
Planning a successful group meetup at Big Eddy Marina involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. Start by contacting the marina management to confirm boat slip availability and reserve spaces well in advance, especially during fishing seasons when demand is higher. Organize transportation logistics carefully, considering the secure parking available for boats and trailers, and coordinate arrival times to avoid congestion. Communicate clearly with your group about the marina rules, such as the absence of on-site fueling or stores, so everyone comes prepared with necessary supplies. Plan your activities around fishing and boating, taking advantage of the fish cleaning station and docks, and consider bringing food and refreshments from nearby locations since the marina does not offer food services. Finally, encourage your group to respect the peaceful environment and community vibe, which will help maintain a positive experience for everyone, both visitors and residents. With thoughtful preparation, any gathering at Big Eddy Marina can become a memorable occasion framed by the beauty and tranquility of the Columbia River.