SAN JUAN ISLANDS KAYAK RENTALS & TOURS
Kayaking in the San Juan Islands is one of the best ways to get up close and personal with the spectacular beauty and wildlife found in our islands. Considered one of the top sea kayaking destinations globally, a San Juan Island kayak tour led by an experienced guide will introduce you to the wonders of the Puget Sound, both above and below the waterline. Imagine a day spent on the water, exploring tidepools in hidden coves, paddling past lighthouses, watching seals cavort and bald eagles soar…and possibly sighting an Orca whale breaching!
The island is lucky to have numerous professional outfitters offering both kayaking tours and rentals. In addition to popular half-day tours, many kayak companies offer multi-day tours and specialized trips. Think women-only kayak tours, family trips, bioluminescence kayak tours, and gourmet kayak trips (some with regional beer and wine tastings). You may even end up foraging from the sea for your supper. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, exploring the San Juan Islands from a kayak will be one very memorable experience.
Many thanks for the great photos from San Juan Outfitters, Crystal Seas Kayaking, Discovery Sea Kayaking, and Outdoor Odysseys.
SAN JUAN OUTFITTERS
A locally owned firm, this kayak rental and tour shop operates from both Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor, at the north end of the island. They provide top-of-the-line gear for your kayak adventure and also offer all-inclusive multi-day kayak trips. SJO’s expert guides are trained marine naturalists ready to answer all your questions and take you for an unforgettable voyage.
CRYSTAL SEAS KAYAKING
This San Juan kayak tour company prides itself on safety and supports the local environment by taking a “green” approach to their kayaking tours. TerraTrek, their sister venture, offers trips that combine kayaking and bicycling throughout the San Juan Islands. They are also locally owned and operated. Can’t beat that combination!
DISCOVERY SEA KAYAKING
Known for small group kayak tours on San Juan Island, this company offers excellent access to your kayak guide and up close wildlife encounters. Discovery was the first company on the islands to offer bio-luminescence kayak tours. In this unusual night-time experience, the movement of your paddle creates sparkling bursts of bright green light in the night sea.
SEA QUEST EXPEDITIONS
Specializing in sea kayak vacations in whale watching waters, Sea Quest offers trips not just in the San Juan Islands but also in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Belize, Fiji and Alaska’s Inside Passage. In addition to whale watching, Sea Quest’s educator/guides are experts at spotting the abundant marine wildlife found in the Salish Sea.
OUTDOOR ODYSSEYS
For over 30 years, Outdoor Odysseys has guided San Juan Island kayak tours for local and international travelers alike. In addition to paddling adventures, they pride themselves on providing exceptional organic “farm to campfire” cuisine, with three-course dinners and wine on overnight excursions. Why not go all in with a 3-Day Wine Tasting Kayaking Tour or 3-Day NW Craft Beer Kayaking tour?
MORE ISLAND ACTIVITIES
The Best Board Games to Bring Camping
Tents, bug spray, marshmallows—and board games? Don’t overlook the easiest way to bring everyone together at camp. Here are the best board games to toss in your duffel bag this season.
Storm Watching on San Juan Island
Storm watching on San Juan Island is as unpredictable as it is breathtaking. Read on for our top tips on catching a storm—not to mention the perfect, Instagram-worthy shot.
Braving the Cold in Comfort: Winter Glamping
SJI glamping? In the winter? Yes, it can be done—and we do it better than anyone else! From luxury yurts to spacious log cabins, check out how Lakedale Resort can keep you cold weather cozy in style.
Digging Deeper Into the San Juan Island Art Scene
SJI’s bustling arts scene is an important part of our unique island identity. Learn more about the can’t-miss galleries, festivals, and events that make this place an art-lover’s paradise!
Fishing Charters and Guided Trips in the San Juan Islands
Our archipelago offers exceptional fishing excursions for anglers of all abilities. Learn how you can elevate your experience with a San Juan Islands fishing charter or guided tour!
Our Ultimate Guide to San Juan Island Biking
With over 50 miles of scenic roads and routes for every pace and style, San Juan Island offers cyclists endless ways to explore. Grab your bike, soak up the views, and discover why biking here is a local and visitor favorite.
The Complete Guide To Live Music in the San Juan Islands
Discover the thriving live music scene across the San Juan Islands, from intimate brewery performances and vineyard concerts to can’t-miss summer festivals like OrcasFest and the Lakedale Music Festival. Whether you’re sipping craft beer in Friday Harbor or dancing under the stars on Orcas Island, this insider’s guide reveals where to find the best concerts and festivals all year long.
Add To Your Itinerary: San Juan Island Brewery
San Juan Island Brewery in Friday Harbor serves award-winning craft beers in a warm, community-focused space just minutes from the ferry. Read about the brewery’s island origins, sessionable lagers, and why it’s become a beloved local gathering spot for islanders and visitors alike.
Your Guide to Experiencing Bioluminescence on San Juan Island
The waters surrounding San Juan Island offer visitors a prime experience for viewing unforgettable light shows—courtesy of the bioluminescent microorganisms that call the Salish Sea home. Learn more about planning a visit that’ll have you glowing.
Our Seven Favorite San Juan Island Hikes
With rugged coastlines, misty forests, and can’t-beat panoramic views, San Juan Island hiking serves up scenery that rivals just about anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re waking up at Lakedale or just visiting for the day, these seven San Juan Island...