On our classic 3-Day Coastal Explorer, we’ll start from San Juan Islands’ southeast side and steer north and then west exploring remote coves and beaches along the way! We’ll keep a constant watch for orca, humpback and minke whales, as we spend a day and a half in prime whale country. Rugged coastline, an abundance of wildlife and ample time on the water are what’s in store.

This unique route traverses varied wildlife habitat, enjoys the spectacular cliffs of Speiden Island’s north side, puts us in prime orca whale habitat longer and stays off the beaten path. It also puts us in two spectacular island campsites and allows us time to hone our kayak skills, explore our surroundings and get to know our fellow paddlers.

Our specialty, honed by experience, is using the tide and eddies to our advantage, and predicting the travel patterns of orca whales. If the wind is right, we’ll hoist our spinnakers to experience the excitement of sea kayak sailing! Each evening after dinner, you may enjoy a sunset hike or paddle, and, when conditions are right, a bioluminescent paddle! This active adventure also allows downtime in our comfy, nylon hammocks, leisure to explore intertidal pools and reminisce about our days on the water around a warm campfire!

We begin at our Sea Kayak Center kiosk at 25 Nichols Street on the morning of your tour. If you are on the ferry that morning, catch the earliest possible ferry from Anacortes. Upon arrival, please make your way immediately to our location. Please call if you have any questions.

We are located just two blocks directly up the hill from the ferry dock in Friday Harbor. Follow East Street past ferry loading lanes, cross to The Hungry Clam, past Serendipity Used Books, and The Market Chef. We are on the corner of A and Nichols Street between Cynthia’s Bistro and Roy’s Drive-Thru. Look for our Kayak Tours sign and umbrellas inside the white, picket fence.

If you are on the island the night before your tour or coming off the ferry the morning of, please meet at our kiosk at 10:15 AM.

Shuttle to Griffin Bay launch site for detailed instruction and packing before launch

Paddle north and west to Turn Island(hike), Shaw Island, Wasp Islands, Yellow Island(hike) and Jones Island(camp).

Set up camp, relax then enjoy delicious dinner.

Hike to sunset viewpoint to watch sunset over the Canadian Gulf Islands.

Savor a Jones Island mocha with a scrumptious breakfast, break camp Cross to Speiden Island’s north side then cruise along pristine coastline to western edge.

To Stuart Island – Set up camp, enjoy hammock time and lunch.

Hike to Turn Point Lighthouse for afternoon Return to camp for savory dinner.

Launch for sunset paddle into Haro Strait and sunset or for a bioluminescence paddle.

Back to Stuart for campfire when allowed.

Break camp and launch kayaks.

Drop down to Speiden Island and cross Speiden Channel .

Lunch on Posey Island and paddle through Mosquito Pass or around the westside of Henry Island depending on conditions.

Paddle into Westcott Bay and Garrison Bay (British Camp National Park).

Finish at our exclusive landing site on Westcott Bay.

Transport back to Friday Harbor in time to catch an afternoon or early evening ferry back to Anacortes or to your accommodation in town.

All meals use fresh ingredients and are wholesome, delicious, and nutritious and there is plenty of it! Our menu options are as follows:

Dinners:

Lunches are typically charcuterie style with salami, nuts, cheese, fruit and sometimes we do tuna salad with our local, sustainably caught High Seas Tuna.

Breakfast includes gourmet pressed coffee (from San Juan Roasting Company), cocoa, fresh melons, bananas, blueberries, and yogurt on super nutty granola. This get-up-an-go meal allows us to get on the water to catch the tide or encounter a pod of whales.

If you have dietary preferences like vegan, veggie, gluten or dairy-free, we will be happy to work with you! Our guides will often bring desserts or wine to share 😊

Our meals are active and fun. You’ll enjoy every bite!

Thank you for choosing San Juan Kayak Expeditions for your sea kayaking adventure. We look forward to meeting you and sharing with you the beauty and wonder of the San Juan Islands. To be prepared for a fun and safe kayaking trip please read the information carefully and well in advance of your scheduled trip.

Click here to view information on how to prepare for your adventure in the San Juan Islands!