Upon arrival to Friday Harbor, it becomes apparent that to get anywhere beyond downtown, you will need to find a means of transportation beyond your own two feet. Mopeds whizz by, seaplanes whirr overhead, and boats of every shape and size putt around the harbor. These all represent viable options for exploring the San Juans, but for those hoping to lay eyes on the more elusive wildlife of the region, we argue that no better option exists than to paddle, under your own power, by kayak. Kayaks separate themselves from motorized watercraft through their lack of engine noise. Save for…
Wildflower Season in the San Juan Islands
Ah, the Spring Shoulder Season! This is our favorite time of year in our small corner of Washington State. The days get longer, the beaches are quiet, and the wildflowers emerge. Our favorite spot to view the wildflowers is from the water on a kayak. On our 3-Day Specialty Kayak Camping Tours, we paddle past Yellow Island, one of the only islands in the San Juans that is a dedicated and protected nature preserve. Yellow Island is 11-acres of beautiful shoreline and grassy hills that are home to flora and fauna unique to the San Juan Islands. “The native grasslands…
Passing the “Special Ops” Torch
Hello blog readers! My name is Anna. I’ve been the Operations Coordinator at Outdoor Odysseys for the past two and a half years. This year I am transitioning out of the role and becoming part-time alumni/ part-time training consultant/ part-time business hype woman. During my time at Outdoor Odysseys I’ve fielded thousands of phone calls, run countless van shuttles, and helped plan too many fun parties and guide dinners. I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed my time living in Friday Harbor. Here is my favorite “must see & do” if you find yourself on island during the summer: Westcott Bay Shellfish Company…
Cheers to Summer 2023!
The sun is shining, the boats are getting clean, and we are ready to be back on the water in the Salish Sea! We started opening the shop at the beginning of May and things are falling back into place. Every winter we close up shop, clean and organize everything to sit over the winter. Coming back in the spring and unpacking always feels very nostalgic of summers past. Once the hammock goes up in the cherry tree and all the vans are parked and ready to go – it really feels like the beginning of summer. We kicked off…