Top Attractions in San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands, located off the coast of Washington State, are a breathtaking paradise known for their natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and charming small-town vibes. Whether you're watching orcas from the shoreline, kayaking through serene waters, or hiking along scenic trails, these islands offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Popular attractions include Lime Kiln Point State Park, Friday Harbor, and Pelindaba Lavender Farm. With stunning sunsets, vibrant art galleries, and farm-to-table dining experiences, the San Juan Islands are a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable Pacific Northwest getaway.

Whale Watching from Friday Harbor in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (765 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 135.00

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

The best orca whale watching is from Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, just an easy day trip adventure from downtown Seattle. The San Juan Islands are considered the "jewel" of the Pacific Northwest, located in the Puget Sound.

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Whale Watching Tour from Anacortes in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (667 reviews)

From $ 119.00

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

No ferry required! Small group whale watching tours on the some of the fastest boats in the region with GUARANTEED WHALES. See whales with us or come again for FREE.

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Orcas Island Whale Watching in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (427 reviews)

From $ 119.00

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Small group whale watching tours on some of the fastest boats in the region with GUARANTEED WHALES! See whales with us or come again for FREE.

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Full Day San Juan Island Kayaking Adventure in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (240 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 149.00

Duration: 6 hours (approx.)

Suitable for all skill levels and beginners too, spend your day kayaking in prime marine wildlife habitat along the Haro Strait, between San Juan Island and Vancouver Island. We'll pick you up on Friday Harbor and take you on a beautiful drive across San Juan Island, pointing out highlights of this special place on the way. After an overview of the day and orientation time with our boats and equipment, we'll traverse the waters of migrating salmon keeping our eyes peeled for eagles, seals, porpoises, and other wildlife that follow our keystone species of the Pacific Northwest: Orcas. You'll stop for a lunch break where your guide will prepare a fresh produce-forward meal on the beach while you enjoy a view of the Olympic Mountains and explore the driftwood beaches of Washington's Lime Kiln Point State Park. There's an option at this point for guests to take a short coastal hike. After we return from our adventure out on the water, we'll pack up and take you back to Friday Harbor.

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Kayaking in Deception Pass State Park  in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (117 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 54.94

Duration: 1 hours (approx.)

No experience is necessary to join this professionally guided kayak trip. Bowman Bay is the perfect place for beginners to feel comfortable paddling on the sea. It offers beautiful scenery and lots of wildlife to seek out. Although this trip is conducted in Deception Pass State Park we avoid the turbulent water near the bridge which is more suitable for expert kayakers. If you plan to visit Deception Pass State Park then don't miss this wonderful opportunity to see it from the unique perspective of a sea kayak!

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Tree Canopy Climbing on Lopez Island in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (112 reviews)
Likely to Sell Out Free Cancellation

From $ 199.00

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Come experience the only old-growth tree climbing activity in the State of Washington and create some unforgettable memories. This is your chance to do something not even .1% of the population has done, but now you can. In small-groups climb together on 1-4 trees between 100 and 200 feet high, depending on your athletic level. Some of the trees are even rare old-growth trees. See the unique perspective above the canopy and feel what it's like to be eye level with an eagle as you climb/swing around like a monkey through the open air and catch branches, while safely harnessed by rope. Climb your way up some of the tallest trees in the world to amazing views of the upper canopy, mountains, and ocean. Connect to nature like you have never done before, beyond the trail. During this activity you will explore the special ecology of old-growth trees and its importance in our environment and so much more. Groups larger than 6 people, please contact us directly.

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Chuckanut Bay Distillery Tour with 2 Mini Cocktails and Gift Glass in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (92 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 20.00

Duration: 1 hours (approx.)

Chuckanut Bay Distillery is a true grain-to-glass distillery located in a beautiful historic building right in the heart of Bellingham. Our experiential tour takes you behind the scenes to show you how we convert locally grown grains into award-winning Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, and more. Guaranteed to tantalize all your senses! Tour is about one hour in length and includes two complimentary "mini" cocktails, a guided tour of the distillery, and a complimentary keepsake Chuckanut Bay Distillery souvenir glass.

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3-Hour Sea Kayak Tour in the San Juan Islands in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (78 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 132.71

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

We are the only kayak tour company that is currently able to lead trips to Burrows Island. You will be exploring unique shorelines that few visitors to the islands are able to experience. Save time, and save money! The experience does not require the hassles of taking a ferry to San Juan Island. Anacortes, located on Fidalgo Island has two bridges connecting us to the mainland. Because you are able to drive directly to us your time on the water is maximized. Many tour companies on other islands include a lengthy shuttle ride as a part of their trip thereby reducing the actual time spent kayaking and encountering wildlife. Single kayaks are available for participants for an additional $25pp. Must be 18 years or older. (Must be requested in advance and is subject to availability.) Professionally trained guides will see to the details and ensure your comfort.

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Bioluminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour in the San Juan Islands in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (15 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 179.00

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

There are very few places in the world where you can experience the stars in the sky and illuminated water around you at the same time. Our trip starts off with a beautiful sunset paddle in Griffin Bay off of San Juan Island where we kayak among harbor seals, roosting birds, and other wildlife. Then as the night progresses, the environment around us becomes even more serene as the bioluminescent sea life comes to life. This is one of those experiences that you will truly remember forever.

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Orca whale tour from Orcas Island in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (10 reviews)

From $ 199.00

 

For those who are especially passionate about Orcas, this trip is for you! Be prepared for up to five hours on the water in the diligent quest for the region's Biggs killer whales. This population of orca is healthy and thriving and can be found year-round in the Salish Sea. They are incredible to watch and can travel over 100 miles in a single day. We load up on our on fastest vessels and depart in search of orcas. We may also encounter the regions other species of whales and wildlife, but the focus is finding orcas. Our success rate is very high, over 95 percent! Tours typically last between 3 to 5 hrs. It can often be a cold trip so bundle up. Don't forget your camera!

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Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Bellingham WA in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (9 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 14.99

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Step into the shoes of a newly-minted detective, tasked by Commander Mahoney to solve a gripping case... murder on the streets of Bellingham. Throughout this crime-solving audio adventure, visit each of the 10 mapped locations. You'll have the option to explore the downtown area using the Walking Map or follow a Driving Map on the city's outskirts. Once you choose, the exact starting point will be revealed. *See images for route. Park or stop at each location, listen to the audio story, and put your detective skills to the test by gathering clues and piecing together the evidence. Finally, make your deductions and issue an arrest warrant. Your overall detective skills will be evaluated, culminating in a Case Performance Score to measure your sleuthing prowess. This game is suitable for solo detectives, dynamic duos, or groups of mystery enthusiasts, offering an immersive audio tale filled with intrigue.

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Outdoor Rock Climbing Beginner or Intermediate at Mt Erie in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (8 reviews)
Likely to Sell Out Free Cancellation

From $ 260.00

Duration: 8 hours (approx.)

Never gone rock climbing outdoors or indoors, then this is for you! Learn the basics and after this adventurous course, you will be able to pass any gym’s belayer test. Mankind's underdeveloped climbing skills and inability to digest tin cans are two ways in which evolution left humans inferior to goats. Level the playing field, learn climbing basics, such as rope skills and belaying, during an introductory climbing course. Washington's terrain makes the state a climber's paradise and the perfect place for a rock climbing hobby and there is no better time to start than the present. We have three locations in Washington State for you to choose from, Mt. Erie in Anacortes, Little Si or Mt. Washington near Seattle, or the crags near Bellingham. There is something here for everyone, routes can be as easy as climbing a playground or for those who want to push their limits we have something in mind for you too.

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The Orcas Project Wine Tasting in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (7 reviews)

From $ 28.72

 

Our hosts! Cole S.: A native of Orcas Island. Cole brings Sommelier experience having worked at restaurants including RN74 Seattle and Michael Mina at the Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas. Rachel: Rachel moved to the island from Idaho several years ago and his fit right in. A lover of Northwest wines, and former tasting room manager at Long Shadows Winery, she can guide you in any direction you'd like to go! Kai: A long time wine professional his love of grapes starts in France and spreads from there. After growing up on the East Coast he made his way to the island where he worked at Roses. A wonderful resource for old world wines! Cole R.: Cole R. recently moved up to the island with his girlfriend, an island native, after studying sommelier classes and working as an intern for a California winery. He loves gardening and matcha! Shiloah: Living on Orcas for a number of years now she also works at the award winning Matia Restaurant. A wonderful source for all things Orcas!

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Orcas Island Bioluminescence Kayaking Tour in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (5 reviews)

From $ 109.00

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Join our guides to explore the magical bioluminescent plankton blooms that light up the coasts of the Rosario Mansion. Departing from the historic Rosario Resort, this 2 hour tour will bring you to some of the best bioluminescence the coasts of Orcas have to offer. With each stroke of your paddle, watch as the waters below come to life. To bring you the brightest sightings, this tours departure schedule is built to depart around new moons for the darkest nights. Learn more about these incredible life forms and all others you may encounter during our adventure. ***IMPORTANT NOTE*** Departure times will vary depending on the time of month (sunset) and is ONLY available on certain dates of each month (new moon). Jun 19, 2025 - Jul 31 (Check-In Time9:30 PM/ Depart 10:00 PM) Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 31 (Check-In Time9:00 PM/ Depart 9:30 PM) Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 28 (Check-In Time8:30 PM/ Depart 9:00 PM)

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Sunset Canopy Climb on Lopez Island in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 199.00

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Come experience the only old-growth tree climbing activity in the State of Washington and create some unforgettable memories. This is your chance to do something not even .1% of the population has done, but now you can. In small-groups climb together on 1-4 trees between 100 and 200 feet high, depending on your athletic level. Some of the trees are even rare old-growth trees. See the unique perspective above the canopy and feel what it's like to be eye level with an eagle as you climb/swing around like a monkey through the open air and catch branches, while safely harnessed by rope. Climb your way up some of the tallest trees in the world to amazing views of the upper canopy, mountains, and ocean. Connect to nature like you have never done before, beyond the trail. During this activity you will explore the special ecology of old-growth trees and its importance in our environment and so much more. Groups larger than 6 people, please contact us directly.

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Cafes and Kayaks: Full Day Kayaking Adventure on Orcas Island in San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands , Washington

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (3 reviews)

From $ 149.00

 

Join us on an incredible excursion out of the Rosario Marina, part of the historic resort and mansion build by Robert Moran in 1909. From Rosario we will make our way down the coastline to the best wildlife viewing locations in the cascade bay before coming shore in the small town of olga, one of orcas's oldest communities. Here we will stop for lunch at the cafe and browse the local art co-op before boarding our kayaks and setting course back to Rosario.

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Discover the Top Attractions in the San Juan Islands

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, the San Juan Islands are a stunning archipelago located between Washington State and Vancouver Island in Canada. Known for their incredible natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and charming coastal towns, the islands are a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Accessible by ferry, seaplane, or private boat, the San Juan Islands offer visitors a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, kayaking, hiking, or exploring picturesque harbors, these islands provide unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Friday Harbor – The Heart of the San Juan Islands

When you think of the San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor often comes to mind. As the main hub of San Juan Island, Friday Harbor offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and scenic views. Stroll along the waterfront to find boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, or stop by the San Juan Islands Museum of Art to admire local and regional works. For history buffs, the San Juan Historical Museum provides fascinating insights into the area’s past, from early settlements to the Pig War. With its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful harbor views, Friday Harbor is a must-see destination.

Lime Kiln Point State Park – Whale Watching Paradise

Known as the “whale watching capital of the world,” Lime Kiln Point State Park is one of the best places on the planet to view orcas from the shore. Located on the west side of San Juan Island, this scenic park offers stunning views of Haro Strait and Vancouver Island. Between May and September, visitors have a high chance of spotting resident orca pods as they pass through the area. The park also features a picturesque lighthouse, hiking trails, and interpretive exhibits that teach you more about marine wildlife. For any nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, this park is an absolute highlight.

Roche Harbor – A Charming Seaside Village

On the northwestern tip of San Juan Island lies Roche Harbor, a picturesque seaside village steeped in history and charm. Famous for its historic Hotel de Haro and vibrant marina, Roche Harbor is a favorite stop for boaters and travelers seeking a luxurious yet laid-back escape. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the colorful gardens, or indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss the nightly flag ceremony at sunset, a local tradition that draws crowds for its nostalgic beauty and stunning views of the harbor.

Pelindaba Lavender Farm – A Sea of Purple Blooms

If you’re visiting during the summer months, make sure to stop by the Pelindaba Lavender Farm, a fragrant and picturesque oasis on San Juan Island. This beautiful farm boasts endless rows of lavender fields, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a photo session. Visitors can also explore the on-site shop, which offers an array of lavender-based products, from essential oils and soaps to culinary treats. The annual San Juan Island Lavender Festival held here every July is a celebration of all things lavender and a must-see event for fl

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