Close-up of oysters at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Why is April the BEST Month for Oysters?

April is an exceptional month for oysters because it falls within the prime transitional month of the year. During this time, the water is colder, which slows oyster reproduction and keeps their meat firm, sweet, and briny.

In the spring, Hood Canal’s nutrient-rich waters contribute to oysters developing a balanced flavor profile, with a refreshing mix of minerality and ocean salinity. As the water starts to warm, algae blooms provide natural food for oysters, enhancing their taste without pushing them into spawning mode just yet.

Hood Canal’s unique tidal flows and clean, sheltered waters create an ideal environment for oysters to thrive. By April, they’re plump from winter feeding, and local oyster farms are harvesting some of their best selections.

That's why we "shell"-ebrate the beginning of spring with oysters! 

Close-up of oysters at Alderbrook Resort & Spa
The beige color background used at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Why is April the BEST Month for Oysters?

April is an exceptional month for oysters because it falls within the prime transitional month of the year. During this time, the water is colder, which slows oyster reproduction and keeps their meat firm, sweet, and briny.

In the spring, Hood Canal’s nutrient-rich waters contribute to oysters developing a balanced flavor profile, with a refreshing mix of minerality and ocean salinity. As the water starts to warm, algae blooms provide natural food for oysters, enhancing their taste without pushing them into spawning mode just yet.

Hood Canal’s unique tidal flows and clean, sheltered waters create an ideal environment for oysters to thrive. By April, they’re plump from winter feeding, and local oyster farms are harvesting some of their best selections.

That's why we "shell"-ebrate the beginning of spring with oysters! 

Close-up of oysters at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Pearls of the Canal Wine & Oyster Cruises

April 11th @ 2 PM
April 18th @ 2 PM
 

Hood Canal oyster being grilled over an open flame, showcasing the vibrant orange sauce and charred grill marks

Complimentary Oysters

Tuesday 5 PM - 6 PM | Fried Oysters in the Drinkery
Wednesday 5 PM - 6 PM | Oyster Shooters in the Drinkery
Thursday 4 PM - 5 PM | Oyster Grill on the Patio

Art station activity with rock painting at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Oyster Shell Painting

Saturday 1 PM
Union City Market

Oyster farmer shucking oyster with a knife at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Oysters & Champagne Reception

Friday's 5 PM - 6 PM
Lobby

Father and daughter playing with sand on the beach near Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Beach Safari

Saturdays
April 4th | 2 PM - 3 PM
April 11th | 4 PM - 5 PM
April 18th | 2 PM - 3 PM
April 25th | 4 PM - 5 PM

underwater scene featuring a jellyfish and sea anemone. The jellyfish has a translucent body

Hands On Children's Museum Activity

Join us while we create and learn with the Hands On Children's Museum!
April 15th | 3 PM - 5 PM | Lobby

Forest Meditation

Nature Trails, SEE DETAILS FOR TIMES

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St. Paddles Day

St. Paddys Day PNW style! Join our annual race to celebrate this green holiday.

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New Moon Floating Sound Bath

Still your mind and reset your focus with the new moon! 

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Oyster Month!

Check out what the month of April is all about - OYSTERS!

See all of our Oyster Month activities and events here.

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Pearls on the Canal Cruise

Indulge this April on a cruise filled with all your favorite Oyster Month delicacies!

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Man grilling food outdoors on a barbecue in Hook & Fork near Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Canal Cookout

Watch the sunset behind the Olympic Mountains while chatting with the chef and the team as they prepare locally sourced, seasonally inspired delights.

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Spa Overture

Embark on a wellness adventure across our property with friends and all our favorite self-care products!

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Gathering Grove Dinner

A perfectly curated event space nestled in our nature trails, that revolves around food, family and friends! We are now offering ticketed dining events for those interested in taking their palates to places they've never been before.

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Thunder on the Canal

Your quintessential Independence Day party! There will be grilling, sailing, dancing, and FIREWORKS. 

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