Seattle · SAN JUAN ISLANDS TOURS
The islands are a ferry and a long morning north, and the orcas are the reason most people go. These 15 compare departure ports, sailing times and whether the day includes anything on land.
Review of Friday Harbor whale watching: boat comfort, whale sightings, ferry planning, price, wildlife, and tips for a smart booking.
“Traveled 45 min. Saw orcas in a pod and followed the pod for 45 minutes. Left and then saw 2 bald eagles in their nest. Very enjoyable.”
Review of Orcas Island whale watching, with ferry tips, wildlife expectations, boat details, value, and practical advice for booking.
“Captain Chaz and Corrina were so welcoming and very knowledgeable about the sea life, islands around orcas island. We had an amazing experience watching two male orcas swimming. Lots of picture opportunities.”
Paddle the Haro Strait near San Juan Island, spot seals and orcas, enjoy a beach lunch, and learn from a local guide in a small group.
“Hunter was the best guide! We were able to see so many orcas!!! The lunch spread was as delicious as it was beautiful 😍. There is no way Eli could have done better! Tom was above and beyond accommodating for us! There is a reason this is the best adventure guiding company on the islands.”
Climb 100 to 200 feet into Lopez Island’s Douglas fir canopy with expert guides, ocean views, safety training, and small groups.
“Brandon was awesome! Very cool experience! We didn’t know what to expect and weren’t disappointed. Brandon made us feel safe and was patient with our kids. Also I left my phone and he was very kind to bring it to us.”
Paddle around Burrows Island near Anacortes, spotting seals, porpoises, kelp, and perhaps orcas on a small-group San Juan Islands kayak tour.
“We had a great time kayaking with our tour guide, Emma. The views were spectacular and we were able to see several different types of marine life. I would recommend this tour to see the San Juan islands from a kayak.”
Paddle Griffin Bay on a guided San Juan Island kayak tour with naturalist guides, modern gear, harbor pickup, and chances to see seals and eagles.
“The sea kayaking tour was so much fun! Roni was knowledgeable and found seals, bald eagles, star fish, etc. I would high recommend the tour if you visit the San Juan islands!”
Fly from Seattle to the San Juan Islands by seaplane, enjoy low-level Puget Sound views, and spend up to an hour on island time.
“You will feel much safer in the sea plane than you do getting to the airport with your uber. Wear layers and try to plan for a clear day for best views. Office staff was very friendly. Views at 200ft were excellent. Friday Harbor is beautiful; we stopped for a glass of wine and walked around. No crowds, tranquil, worth returning for an overnight. Highly recommend the experience.”
Paddle Griffin Bay at sunset, then watch bioluminescent sea life glow beneath your kayak on this private San Juan Island night tour.
“View not as beautiful as advertised, almost invisible. Had to help carry 4 boats to the beach and back - this was not stated in any description of the tour. Overall the tour was okay, but nothing too excited or unique. Lower your expectations and you will do fine.”
Learn to sail in Obstruction Pass on a private three-hour Orcas Island lesson for up to six people, with morning or afternoon departures.
“Sailing with Nate was a great experience, he was very accommodating with me and my friends and each of our skills and comfort level. Would really recommend him for sailing with any age group or skill set.”
Paddle from Anacortes to protected Cypress Island, camp by the sea, watch wildlife, and enjoy two days of meals, gear, and expert guiding.
“This was a great trip! Wolf was a knowledgeable and approachable guide, easy to talk to, but also aware of the group’s needs. He also prepared fantastic meals, and had been well-briefed on the group’s dietary needs. They sent us by water taxi to the island to make sure we got campsites (holiday weekend), which was wise because the campground filled up quickly. We went on a day paddle instead, and had time to hike before dinner. The 2 channel crossing back to Anacortes was a bit challenging due to currents and boat traffic, but the route was well-chosen and we didn’t have any problems. Very fun weekend, and a…”
Search for year-round Bigg’s killer whales on a fast Orcas Island boat tour with a marine naturalist, onboard restroom, and small group.
“Hunter guided us like the pro he is on the water. We were blessed and saw multiple orcas up close!!”
Review of Blue Kingdom’s small-group Anacortes whale tour, with orcas, other wildlife, heated cabin, and a two-hour Friday Harbor stop.
“Incrível, vimos muitas baleias orcas, apesar do tempo chuvoso a navegação foi tranquila! Tyler foi impecável, até dicas de restaurantes em Friday Harbor!”
Paddle under the stars near Rosario Mansion as bioluminescent plankton glows beneath your kayak on this small-group Orcas Island tour.
“This was such a cool experience and Tyler was a great guide! We saw so many amazing things and it really was an unforgettable experience.”
Climb 200 feet into old-growth trees at sunset, then rappel by moonlight on a small-group Deception Pass adventure from Lopez Island.
“Sunset or no sunset, this is a must for anyone's bucket list! What a thrill! You can do this even if you've never climbed a tree before! Equipment is new, guides are very friendly and highly experienced. They are also very patient! In our case, the Read more”
Paddle Haro Strait from San Juan Island, spot Pacific Northwest wildlife, enjoy a picnic with Olympic Mountain views, and explore Lime Kiln Point.
“We had a great time and our guide (Meg) was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. This was a really fun adventure- I’d do it again in the future.”
Pick a pier, a mountain road or a kitchen.
