San Juan Kayak Expeditions is the oldest sea kayaking outfitter in the San Juan Islands, guiding trips since 1980 out of Friday Harbor. Despite its long history, the business remains intentionally small, running trips in small groups to keep the experience personal, with more time on the water and better access to wildlife and remote areas.
Half-day tours run 3 to 4 hours out of Griffin Bay, a protected area on the south side of San Juan Island well suited to beginners and families, or near Lime Kiln Point on the island’s west side, one of the best-known whale-watching shorelines in the region with views across Haro Strait. Full-day tours run 6 to 8 hours, covering more distance and often exploring further along the rugged west side of the island where kelp beds and open water create a more dynamic paddling environment. Multi-day guided expeditions run 2 to 5 days, combining camping or inn-based nights with daily paddling deeper into the islands, with a strong chance of spotting resident and transient orca pods, humpback whales, sea lions, and porpoises along the way.
For experienced paddlers who prefer to go it alone, San Juan Kayak Expeditions also rents tandem sea kayaks for self-guided, multi-day adventures, a service the business has offered safely for more than four decades. Renters get a detailed itinerary, thorough on-the-beach instruction, and ongoing support from staff throughout the trip, including route, tide, and weather guidance. Rental inventory is limited during the peak July and August season.
Every guided trip includes kayak, paddle, and safety gear, instruction and guided support, route planning based on conditions, and dry bags for small personal items. Guests need to bring layered clothing, a wind or rain shell, sun protection, wet-ready footwear, and water and snacks (or a lunch for full-day trips).
For paddlers looking to explore the San Juan Islands with the region’s original and most experienced kayak outfitter, whether through a guided day tour, multi-day expedition, or self-guided rental, San Juan Kayak Expeditions offers a well-reviewed, small-group operation out of Friday Harbor.
