Kayaking the San Juan Islands - Anacortes, Washington

Washington state is perfect for kayaking. The inlet waters of the beautiful Puget Sound is a great place for sea kayaking from beginners to the experienced. The sound includes what is known as the San Juan Islands, which is a string of four Islands. Each Island has it's own unique qualities and the following 3 offer kayaking. Reaching the Islands requires a ferry ride from Anacortes,WA which is a fun and enjoyable trip in itself. I think these three Islands offer some of the best kayaking in Western Washington.

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juans Islands. The horseshoe-shaped island is a mix of forest, valleys, lakes and the beautiful mountains. Orcas Island is made up of several villages. Orcas Village, West sound and Deer Harbor are all popular destinations for visitors and boaters, and each offers lodging, supplies and dining. On the mountainous east end of the island, Olga is a charming area that includes a restaurant and an art gallery inside a historic strawberry packing plant. East sound is the main hub of Orcas island. They offer whale watching as well as sea kayaking.

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is the second largest Island. San Juan Island combines rocky shores and sandy beaches, prairie and pastureland, lakes and forests. The town of Friday Harbor greets visitors by ferry. Friday Harbor is one square mile of walkable seaside activity, recreation and culture. They offer many places to stay, hotels, inns and B&Bs, tour the museums, dine in one of their many restaurants, visit the farmers market, shops and galleries. San Juan Island is well known for its sea kayaking as well as whale watching opportunities. Some 80 Orca whales make their home in the surrounding waters during the spring and summer. There are a large number of tour companies that specialize in kayaking. The companies offer various guided kayak trips or if you prefer kayaks can also be rented for solo trips.

Lopez Island

Lopez Island is the most rural of the three major islands. The landscape is made up of forests, farmlands and open spaces with gorgeous views. Lopez Village is the main hub of the Island, located about 4 miles from the ferry landing nestled along Fisherman Bay. There you will find a variety of shops, galleries, coffee shops and restaurants, a motel, B&B'S, Inns and cottages. Kayaking, fishing, boating,and biking are favorite outdoor activities on the Island.

Kayaking is a enjoyable water sport that offers not only great exercise but a chance to do some sight seeing in a unique, fun and peaceful way. If you have never been kayaking, give it a try for a memorable experience you will never forget.

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