Easy access and some wind cover make the boat basin one of the most beginner friendly locations on the waterfront.
Nichols basin is the most beginner friendly place on the Hood River Waterfront to go paddling. It offers a bit of cover from the wind and is completely out of the current. Because of this it can also get very crowded. That being said, it is a big area so there is usually plenty of room for everyone.
Access
You can either park at the event site and walk over, or park on the street right oustide of the beach. The best place to launch is from the beach on the north side (closest to the event site).