Guided Kayak Tour on San Juan Island
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Although just one mile south of Friday Harbor, Griffin Bay is a world away from it all! This trip offers peace and quiet and superb views of glacier-covered Mt. Baker and the Olympic Mountain range. Unhindered by strong tidal currents, it is an ideal trip for families and anyone wanting to experience sea kayaking.
We will explore picturesque Dinner Island and it’s colony of chubby resident harbor seals, then turn south toward quiet coves. You may see bald eagles, Dall’s or Harbor porpoise, river otters, mink and oodles of migratory sea birds like scoters, harlequin ducks, loons and mergansers along with our local herons, cormorants, gulls and kingfishers!
This trip moves at an easy pace and offers a chance to get away from the crowds.
Forged in 1980 from leave-no-trace ethics and a commitment to excellence, San Juan Kayak Expeditions provides fun knowledgeable guides, top of the line equipment, including fiberglass kayaks & carbon fiber paddles, and personalized customer service.
Available options
Griffin Bay 3 Hour Kayak Tour
What's included
All taxes and fees
Landing and facility fees
Professionally Trained Naturalist Kayak Guide
Includes the use of all sea kayaking equipment and safety gear
Transportation to launch site from Friday Harbor
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour meeting point -- walking distance from the Friday Harbor Ferry Terminal. Meet up with your guide here before we depart for our paddle session.
2
Our launch point into Griffin Bay!
Gain confidence in the kayak with a brief paddling instruction and safety talk before heading out on the water.
3
The peaceful, protected waters of Griffin Bay provide an excellent paddling experience for guests of all experience levels. Watch for seals, porpoises, and a variety of marine birds as we make our way around the bay.
4
Home to a colony of harbor seals, paddle the peaceful waters of Griffin Bay out to witness these playful creatures
5
We'll drop you off at the same place we met at the end of the tour, right in the heart of Downtown Friday Harbor.
What's not included
Gratuities
Bottled water
Sun protection (sunglasses, sun screen, hat)
Personal weather appropriate clothing
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
39 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For children 8 and older when accompanied by an adult
Must be of average height and weight. 225 Max weight; 6'6 max height
Meeting point
2 blocks from the Friday Harbor Ferry dock
Important notes
What to Wear:
Quick drying shorts and top, Water shoes – Your feet will get wet.
Jeans are never appropriate. Bring a windbreaker or fleece as an extra layer.
Don't Forget: Sun glasses, sunscreen, 1 liter bottle water per person, camera, binoculars, and Guide Gratuity
About San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are an archipelago of 172 islands and reefs in the northwest corner of the contiguous United States. Known for their natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, the islands offer a serene and scenic escape. With over 40 state parks and a rich maritime history, the San Juan Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions
Friday Harbor
The largest town in the San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor is a bustling hub with shops, restaurants, and a charming waterfront.
Town
Half day to full day
Free to explore, activities vary
Lime Kiln Point State Park
A scenic state park known for its whale watching opportunities and historic lime kiln.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Mount Constitution
The highest point in the San Juan Islands, offering panoramic views and hiking trails.
Nature
Half day
Free
Shaw Island Library
The oldest continuously operating library in Washington State, housed in a historic building.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dungeness Crab
A local delicacy, often served steamed or in crab cakes
Dinner
Contains shellfish
Oysters
Freshly shucked oysters, often served with local mignonette sauce
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Marionberry Pie
A sweet and tangy pie made with locally grown marionberries
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Hiking
Whale watching
Beachcombing
Spas
Wine tasting
Art galleries
Museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and minimal rainfall. This is the best time for outdoor activities, whale watching, and exploring the islands' natural beauty.
15-25°C
60-75°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Other European languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
PST (UTC-8) / PDT (UTC-7) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The San Juan Islands are generally safe with low crime rates. However, travelers should always take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- Friday Harbor Airport • 5 km from downtown Friday Harbor
- Islands' Legacy Airport (Orcas Island) • 10 km from Eastsound
Getting around
Public transport
The transit system provides limited service on San Juan Island, connecting major towns and attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Friday Harbor
Eastsound
Lopez Village
Day trips
Victoria, British Columbia
90 km from Friday Harbor • Full day
A charming city known for its historic architecture, gardens, and tea culture.
Swartz Bay, British Columbia
50 km from Friday Harbor • Half day
A scenic area known for its coastal views and outdoor activities.
Festivals
San Juan Island Fair • August
Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Book ferry tickets and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season
- Pack layers for variable weather conditions
- Explore multiple islands for a diverse experience
- Visit local farmers markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
