Why is April the BEST Month for Oysters?
April is a special time on the canal — the waters are crisp, the tides are rich with life, and oysters are at their absolute best. Plump, briny, and bursting with flavor, these local delicacies are harvested from the pristine waters of Hood Canal, offering a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.
Join us as we celebrate the season with the freshest oysters, perfectly paired with coastal views and a glass of crisp white wine. Whether enjoyed raw, grilled, or with a squeeze of lemon, there’s no better way to welcome spring.
Come experience the magic of oyster season — nature’s perfect bite, right here 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!