Discover the glowing waters of Deer Harbor on a guided bioluminescence kayak tour. Paddle through illuminated waters and experience the magic of nature's light show in this unforgettable adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling experience recommended but not required
Wildlife
History
Deer Harbor has a long history as a fishing community, with many stories of indigenous Coast Salish peoples who once inhabited these waters.
Conservation
Shearwater Adventures emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimal impact paddling and wildlife respecting guidelines to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Shearwater Adventures
Discover the glowing waters of Deer Harbor on a guided bioluminescence kayak tour. Paddle through illuminated waters and experience the magic of nature's light show in this unforgettable adventure.
Shearwater Adventures is a guided sea-kayaking operator based in Deer Harbor, Washington, offering a range of small-group paddling experiences around Orcas Island and nearby islands. The company runs daytime and after-dark tours—three-hour excursions from Deer Harbor to the Wasp Islands, guided paddles to Doe Bay and Eastsound, sunset cruises from North Beach, and specialized full-moon and bioluminescence night trips.
All tours include expert guidance, safety instruction, and paddling gear provided for participants. Trips are designed for a wide range of abilities and ages, with options that suit beginners, families, and more experienced paddlers. Seasonal offerings such as moonlight and bioluminescence tours run on select nights and are scheduled to coincide with optimal natural conditions.
Natural-history interpretation and wildlife viewing are core elements of the experience; paddlers can expect opportunities to see marine birds, intertidal life, and marine mammals depending on timing and tides. The Paddle & Picnic tour adds time for beach exploration, tide-pooling, and a relaxed shore lunch on uninhabited islands.
Shearwater Adventures operates from Deer Harbor on Orcas Island and emphasizes small groups and personalized attention. The operator maintains a focus on safety, local knowledge, and leaving minimal environmental impact. For visitors seeking guided kayaking, sunset paddles, or guided night-time bioluminescence and full-moon experiences in the San Juan Islands, Shearwater Adventures provides locally guided options and all necessary equipment.
Launch Location
Deer Harbor, WA
Gateway to Orcas Island paddles
Trip Lengths
2–3 hours
Short, half-day options available
Skill Level
All Abilities
Beginners and families welcome
Gear Included
All gear provided
Paddles, PFDs, and instruction
Reserve seasonal spots for sunset, full-moon, or bioluminescence paddles — small groups, expert guidance, all gear included.
Wear Layers and Waterproof Gear
Temperatures can drop at night, so dress warmly and bring waterproof clothing to stay comfortable during your paddle.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture the glowing waters and your adventure without worry by using a waterproof camera or phone case.
Go During a New Moon
For the brightest bioluminescent displays, plan your trip around a new moon when the sky is darker.
Arrive Early for Safety Briefing
Get familiar with paddling techniques and safety instructions from guides before heading out onto the water.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during night paddles in changing weather conditions.
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Headlamp or Waterproof Flashlight
Provides hands-free illumination for safety and navigation after sunset.
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Layers of Warm Clothing
Ensures comfort as temperatures can drop after dark.
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Bioluminescent-Friendly Camera Gear
Capture stunning images of the glowing water with equipment suited for low-light photography.