moderate
8 hours
Participants should have a basic level of physical fitness to handle all-day paddling and occasional portages.
Discover the beauty of Friday Harbor with a full day of kayaking adventures, perfect for wildlife viewing and exploring pristine coastal waters. Join Discovery Sea Kayaks for an unforgettable outdoor experience in Washington’s stunning San Juan Islands.
6 Hours (4.5 Hours Water Time) | West Side Paddle Route | Wildlife and Whale Encounters
Experience the breathtaking beauty of San Juan Island on a Full Day Kayaking Tour. Paddle along stunning coastal cliffs, enjoy a beachside picnic, and hike to the iconic Lime Kiln Lighthouse. With expert guides and small group sizes, this adventure promises unforgettable moments and the chance to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat.
10:30 AM
Check-In: Arrive for check-in at our brick-and-mortar office in downtown Friday Harbor, 260 Spring St., 15 minutes (10:15 AM) before the scheduled departure time.
If the date you want is unavailable or sold out. Complete the following form. Kayak Tour Request Form
🌊 Where Coastline Meets Adventure.
Embark on the ultimate paddling experience with our beloved Full Day Kayaking Tour, a signature adventure that showcases the west side of San Juan Island in all its wild, scenic glory.
🛶 Your Journey Starts Here Launching from San Juan County Park, we paddle south along dramatic coastal cliffs toward Dead Man’s Bay, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing beachside picnic lunch (provided). From there, join us on a short hike to Lime Kiln State Park and the iconic lighthouse—a perfect pairing of land and sea exploration.
🐋 Whale Sightings? You’re in the Zone. Our handpicked west-side route isn't just gorgeous—it's also the top location for spotting whales from a kayak. With luck and timing, you could be gliding alongside these majestic creatures in the wild.
🌿 Small Groups, Big Experience We keep our groups intentionally small to elevate safety, preserve the environment, and ensure meaningful interaction with your guide. This is far from a “cattle drive”—it’s a handcrafted adventure designed for connection and discovery.
🧭 Expert Guides, Every Time. All guides complete advanced sea kayaking certification, plus full naturalist and island history training. They’re seasoned pros with deep local knowledge and real-time safety instincts to ensure your paddle is smooth and secure.
🚣♀️ Top-Shelf Gear, Included
Fiberglass Two-Person Sea Kayaks for comfort, stability, and performance—no flimsy plastic here
High-quality Waterproof Jackets & Pants for changing conditions
Spacious Dry Bags for your essentials —all at no extra charge
🥪 Refuel in Style. Our picnic lunch at Dead Man’s Bay is more than a break—it’s a moment to breathe, recharge, and savor the setting before launching into the second half of your adventure.
Spots fill quickly during peak seasons—lock in your Full Day Kayaking Tour and make memories that ripple long after the paddle ends.
👥 Looking to Customize? Whether you're planning a family excursion or a team retreat, we offer private group tours tailored to your needs. Just reach out—we’ll build the perfect day on the water.
Wa State Ferry Travel Notice
If you are arriving by Wa State Ferry, we advise all guests to select a ferry sailing that arrives as early as possible to San Juan Island. Missed tours due to ferry delays or missed ferries are treated as same-day cancellations. No Refund and No Reschedule.
Shoes: Something you do not mind getting a bit damp.
Bring layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions on the water.
Arriving in the morning increases your chances of seeing seals, eagles, and other wildlife in active hours.
Bring enough water and use sunscreen to stay comfortable during the sunny parts of the day.
Always listen to your guide and adhere to safety guidelines for a safe paddling experience.
Friday Harbor has a rich maritime history dating back to the late 1800s, once serving as a key shipbuilding and fishing hub.
Discovery Sea Kayaks promotes eco-friendly practices, including proper waste disposal and respect for local wildlife to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
A properly fitted PFD is required for safety during the entire tour.
Wearing quick-drying clothes helps stay comfortable and dry on the water.
Provides shade and protects your face from sun exposure during sunny days.
summer specific
Protect your skin from UV rays, especially when paddling in the open water.