Sea Kayaking Adventures in Bellingham with Moondance - Seattle

Sea Kayaking Adventures in Bellingham with Moondance

Seattlemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours to 5 days

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic cardiovascular fitness and stamina for paddling multiple hours, suitable for beginners with a guide.

Overview

Paddle diverse coastal waters around Bellingham with Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures. From short cove trips to multi-day island circumnavigations, discover wildlife and landscapes unique to the Salish Sea.

Details

Bellingham, Washington, sits at the gateway to the Salish Sea, where forested shoreline meets azure waters and a playground of islands beckons paddlers. Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures taps into the pulse of this extraordinary marine landscape, delivering intimate, guided sea kayaking trips that connect adventurers with the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest’s coastal waterways.

Moondance offers experiences ranging from short, focused outings like their three-hour Kayak The Cove paddle to full-day excursions around Chuckanut Bay, a region carved by ancient glaciers and steeped in natural diversity. Their multi-day Orcas Island circumnavigation, spanning five days, is a standout trip—paddling along rocky shorelines, through calm bays, and camping on remote beaches under a cathedral of stars.

What sets Moondance apart is the depth of their local knowledge paired with top-tier safety and gear. Guides like Izzie, Sophia, and Hayden bring an infectious passion, extensive naturalist expertise, and an ability to craft itineraries that showcase both iconic wildlife—sea otters, bald eagles, orcas—and hidden gems like tide pools bursting with colorful marine life. Camp cooking skills elevate the experience, with fresh, nutritious meals enjoyed in wild settings.

The region is defined by its contrasting geography—sharply rising mountains meet the intricate channels of the San Juan Islands, creating micro-environments rich in kelp forests and diverse sea life. Moondance’s trips emphasize a respectful, sustainable relationship with this environment, making each paddle not just an adventure but a meaningful encounter with one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic ecosystems.

Whether you’re new to ocean kayaking or seeking a challenging multi-day expedition, Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures offers a true immersion into Bellingham’s coastal wilds, combining serenity, adrenaline, and education in a way few local outfitters match.

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers

Temperatures on the water can shift quickly; wear moisture-wicking layers and a windproof outer shell.

Bring a Waterproof Camera

Capture encounters with seals, eagles, and the changing coastline without risking gear damage.

Arrive Early for Safety Briefing

Moondance begins trips with thorough safety and environmental orientation—don’t miss this essential step.

Use Provided High-Quality Gear

Leverage the outfitter’s top-notch sea kayaks and paddles designed for stability and performance.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet beaches on remote San Juan islands accessible only by kayak
  • Tide pools teeming with starfish, crabs, and anemones along Chuckanut Bay

Wildlife

  • Orca whales patrolling the Salish Sea
  • Juvenile bald eagles nesting near shorelines

History

The Salish Sea has been home to Coast Salish peoples for thousands of years, with rich maritime traditions linked to the waterways and islands.

Conservation

Moondance emphasizes low-impact paddling and respectful wildlife viewing to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Northwest coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunrise or sunset
Midday for wildlife activity
Overcast days for soft light

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlooking Chuckanut Bay from the water
  • Remote beach campsites on Orcas Island
  • Rocky outcrops with panoramic views of the San Juan Islands

What to Photograph

Seals and sea otters
Bald eagles in flight
Sunset reflections on calm water

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Keeps personal gear and electronics safe and dry throughout the trip.

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Mandatory safety equipment that Moondance supplies for all paddlers.

Sun Hat and UV Protection

Essential

Protects skin and eyes from prolonged sun exposure on the water.

summer specific

Insulating Layers

Essential

Essential for warmth during cooler paddling seasons and early mornings.

spring|fall|winter specific