Top Washington Kayaking Tours

Explore the stunning waters of the San Juan Islands on a full-day kayak tour, offering a unique opportunity to paddle in the whale waters. This six-hour adventure, led by expert guides, takes you through the prime whale-watching areas where sightings of both resident and transient orcas are possible. Glide through scenic shorelines, vibrant kelp forests, and enjoy the diverse marine wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and various bird species. Each paddle stroke unveils new wonders, making every moment an adventure in nature.

This is the perfect tour for anyone looking to get out on the water for a few hours on their San Juan Island vacation. With pick-up and drop-off in downtown Friday Harbor, this family and beginner-friendly three hour tour gets you kayaking among pelagic wildlife in the shadow of Mt. Baker. After picking you up at the Friday Harbor waterfront, we'll take a short drive over to Jackson's Beach, coach you through basic paddling and safety techniques and get you out on the serene waters and tidal zone of Griffin Bay as to circumnavigate Dinner Island with views of the Olympic Mountains cresting above Cattle Pass. With morning and afternoon departure times, we think this tour is a great way to dabble in some kayaking, have some laughs, enjoy nature, and make memories with your travel companions.

See Whidbey Island in Washington from a fresh perspective with a small-group kayaking tour in Deception Pass State Park. Meet your guide at 4399 Bowman Bay Rd and climb into a sea kayak to explore the calm waters of Bowman Bay. Learn the basics of paddling and admire views of wildlife, Fidalgo Island, and more. All gear including life jackets and paddles is provided.

Discover Seattle’s original neighborhood, Pioneer Square, on this guided walking tour that is great for locals and tourists alike who want to learn more about this city. Explore the underground pathways that were built in the southwest corner of the Emerald City more than 120 years ago. Learn about Seattle’s history and the events that transformed this once-small Indigenous dwelling place into one of the most popular and thriving cities in the United States.

Explore Washington state’s San Juan Islands Monument on this sea kayak tour starting in Anacortes. Join a small group to paddle past the stunning scenery of uninhabited islands including Burrows Island. Spot local wildlife such as harbor seals, porpoises, several fish species, and sometimes orcas. All sea kayaking equipment, life jackets, and safety gear are included for a safe and comfortable experience.

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. Please contact Outdoor Odysseys directly to complete your waivers prior to the tour. The last ferry leaves Friday Harbor at 9:50pm and our June, July, and August tours end later.

Explore the stunning west side of San Juan Island on this half-day kayak tour, designed for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Paddle alongside expert guides, who share their knowledge of local marine life and cultural history, all while taking in breathtaking views of the coastline. This small group experience, limited to just 8 guests, increases your chances of encountering whales, sea lions, and more, as you glide through serene waters. With all kayaking equipment provided, including waterproof jackets and dry bags, you're set for an unforgettable adventure on the Pacific Northwest waters.

Our most popular kayak camping trip in the whale waters of the San Juan Islands! Paddle three days through the prime wildlife zones along San Juan Island, where nearly all whale and wildlife sightings occur, with a professionally trained biologist/naturalist guide. We camp only on small remote islands with abundant eagles, seals and other wildlife, and our routes include visits to a National Monument, National Wildlife Refuge, and State & County Parks. Sea Quest uses only high-performance, well-maintained modern kayaks on multiday tours, and has the longest history of any company operating kayak tours in these waters. - 3 days of guided sea kayaking, 4 to 6 hours (8 to 12 miles) of paddling per day - Biologist/naturalist guides with a focus on orcas and wildlife - Camp in marine parks on remote islands, with breakfast and dinner cooked by your guide and tents provided - Beginner friendly, with a full hour of skills and safety instruction on day 1

Get up close with the killer whales of Anacortes, the home port to the San Juan Islands, on this whale-watching cruise led by naturalist guides. Climb aboard a Blackfish fleet vessel and travel through some of the most picturesque scenery in the Pacific Northwest searching for orca, humpback, and gray whales. Along the way, see ocean wildlife in their natural environment, like seals, porpoises, sea lions and otters—plus a wide variety of birds and more.

Get up close with the orca whales off the San Juan Islands near Seattle on this half-day whale-watching cruise. San Juan Island is where the southern resident killer whales live about six months out of the year, from mid-April to October. It’s also considered one of the best places to view orca whales.

Paddle through the calm, winding waterways of Scappoose Bay, one of the most serene and wildlife-rich kayaking areas in the region. This guided experience takes you into quiet tidal channels surrounded by wetlands and forest, where it’s common to spot birds, river otters, fish, and other native wildlife. The tour follows a relaxed pace, with time to float, observe nature, and take photos rather than rushing. With stable kayaks and attentive guidance, it’s well suited for both first-time paddlers and those seeking an easy, enjoyable outing on the water. What truly sets this experience apart is its private and unrushed format. The route and rhythm are adapted to the group and conditions, creating a more personal connection with the landscape. To keep things seamless, private transportation from a location chosen by the traveler is included, along with fresh snacks and water—so you can focus entirely on the experience.

Experience Seattle from a unique vantage point on a small-group sea kayak tour in Elliott Bay. No previous experience is necessary for this aquatic adventure, and a guide is on hand at all times, ensuring you have a fun and safe experience. As you paddle along the calm waters, enjoy unobstructed views of the Seattle skyline and surrounding mountain ranges. If you’re lucky, you may spot local wildlife, like California sea lions.

We're offering professional guiding to help parents or guardians get kids out on the water for possibly the first time in a kayak. As part of this tour the family will travel to an offshore island for an exciting hike, a lunch that we'll prepare and some time on the beach in addition to the kayaking that we'll be doing.

Seattle is famous for its bustling waterfront, numerous green spaces, and historic neighborhoods. Ideal for first-time visitors, this sightseeing tour provides an overview of top attractions such as Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and Pike Place market. Sit back and relax while your guide provides historical and cultural background for each destination, and enjoy stops to walk and take photos.

Experience the natural beauty of Mt. Rainier with the help of a guide to lead the way on this full-day group tour from Seattle. Enjoy a scenic, narrated journey past lakes, waterfalls, historic towns, and Mt. Rainier. Take in spectacular views from Narada Falls, considered the most popular waterfall in Mt. Rainier National Park, and the aptly named Paradise. Includes pickup and drop-off from select downtown Seattle and airport hotels for your convenience.

Seattle is a fun city to explore, but good luck finding parking if you rent a car and set out on your own. Make things easier on yourself with a guided tour of Seattle that hits up highlights, including the Space Needle, Chinatown, and T-Mobile Park. Plus, your guide knows all the quickest ways around, so you can see more in less time.

On this two-in-one Snoqualmie Falls and Washington State wineries tour, experience highlights beyond Seattle that many other visitors miss. With round-trip transit included, getting out into nature—and visiting beauty spots including the mighty falls—is made simple. Along the way, visit at least two top-rated estate wineries, where you can enjoy guided tastings (own expense).

See the best of Seattle in just a few hours on this convenient bus tour. Relax and sightsee from the bus, skipping the hassle of planning transportation throughout the day. Cover several of Seattle's must-see spots, such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Fremont Troll. Beyond the major sights, you'll also explore different neighborhoods and learn about Seattle's history from your guide.

Explore the stunning waters of San Juan Island on a full-day kayak tour designed for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts. Paddle along the west side, where wildlife encounters are likely, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a small beach scenic walk to the lighthouse. Experienced guides ensure a safe and memorable experience, providing all necessary equipment and small group sizes for personalized attention.

Make your arrival at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport totally hassle-free with this prebooked transfer service. Skip the taxis and shuttles, and travel with confidence, aboard a private vehicle. Choose from a 3-person sedan, a 5-passenger van, or a 6-person SUV to fit your group's needs. Then, sit back and relax en route to your Seattle, Bellevue, or Kirkland accommodation.

If you’re dreaming of a getaway that blends peaceful paddling with effortless outdoor living, our 3‑Day San Juan Island Kayak Camping Tour is the perfect fit. This guest‑favorite trip combines gentle exploration, scenic island hopping, and cozy expedition‑style camping. Let the stress melt away as you listen to the soft rush of water along your kayak. With wildlife all around — from playful seals to soaring eagles and passing whales — every moment feels like a deep breath of fresh island air.

Go on a tour like no other where you'll combine both hiking and kayaking to experience an alpine lake it it's entirety! Just an hour from Seattle, this adventure begins with a meeting at the trailhead, followed by a moderate hike boasting panoramic views. Upon reaching the lake, enjoy a fresh lunch before paddling across the crystal-clear waters. Float next to towering cliffs, visit stunning waterfalls, explore hidden islands, and soak in the stunning scenery from the middle of the alpine lake. Leave the crowds on the shore and have the entire alpine lake to yourself. This tour is perfect for moderate hikers aged 14-65 looking for a memorable outdoor experience in Washington's breathtaking landscape. - Half-day tour from Seattle, includes hiking and one-of-a-kind alpine lake kayaking - Paddle on one of Washington’s most beautiful alpine lakes - Enjoy a fresh lunch provided during the tour - Small group size (max 6) with a professional guide for a personal experience

A full-catered trip, this multi-day tour takes you to experience kayaking and camping in the San Juan Islands, specifically Cypress Island. This island is a gem within the San Juan archipelago, boasting protected conservation and natural areas that teem with wildlife. Explore miles of trails leading to viewpoints and secluded coves with pebble beaches. Enjoy having exclusive access to this hidden paradise during this tour.