Sea kayaking and paddling on the west side of San Juan Island affords participants the best chance in the lower 48 states to observe Orca whales in their natural habitat. The pristine waters of the San Juan and Gulf Islands are host to over 80 resident Orca Whales. The resident J, K and L pods are found in the San Juan archipelago from May to October.
Orca Whale Watching
The southern resident pods of orcas whales are found in the San Juans because the different species of salmon (their primary food source) during this time of year are schooling up in the Pacific Ocean and migrating through the straits between the south end of Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. The current tends to push the incoming salmon up against the west side of San Juan Island. The orcas take advantage of this phenomenon to feed on the salmon among the numerous bays and inlets on the west side of the island.
Our trip is designed to provide guests with numerous "hands-on" opportunities to observe, study and learn more about the fascinating marine mammals and birds that range along the east side of Haro Strait. Quiet and unobtrusive, double kayaks provide the perfect means for exploring the myriad forms of sea life we encounter.
Other treasured wildlife sightings found on the west side of San Juan Island may include Dall's Porpoises, harbor seals, river otter and a variety of different birdlife ranging from auklets to herons. The region also hosts one of the largest bald eagle breeding populations in the Continental United States.
Sea Kayak Trip Schedule
If you are coming to San Juan Island from the mainland (Anacortes) take the Washington State Ferries to Friday Harbor. We'll meet as a group at the ferry landing in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island between 10:00 and 10:30 AM (Time may vary slightly depending on the ferry schedule. Call us to confirm exact time.) From there, we'll transport you in our 15 passenger van to our put-in on the west side of San Juan Island. After a thorough dry land orientation covering paddling technique, safety and boat handling we'll get on the water.
We'll kayak for about an hour and a half and then stop for a break at a beautiful little cove just south of Lime Kiln State Park that has outstanding views of the Olympic Mountains and Vancouver Island. After our break we'll continue paddling and exploring along the rocky shores of San Juan Island. After a sublime day on the water viewing the "wonders of the universe," we'll get you back to Friday Harbor between 4:15 - 4:45 PM in time for the 5:00 PM ferry to Anacortes, or for dinner on the town if you are staying overnight.
