Whale Watching

Whale Watching on San Juan Island

From guided tours to unforgettable views from shore.

Orcas, humpbacks, minke whales, white-sided dolphins, and the occasional gray whale migrate through the Salish Sea throughout the year. Sea lions, seals, otters, and more than 300 bird species also call the San Juan Islands home, making this one of the richest wildlife regions in the Pacific Northwest.

For a guided experience, we recommend booking a whale and wildlife tour with one of our favorite local outfitters. Prefer to stay on land? Lime Kiln Point State Park, often called “Whale Watch Park,” is one of the best places in the world to see orcas from shore.

Helpful note: We’re happy to assist with booking whale watching tours or pairing them with other island activities, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

Large Boats

San Juan Safaris offers professionally guided whale watching tours with a strong focus on education and conservation. One to three marine biologists are always onboard to answer questions and share insight about the region’s wildlife.

Their flagship vessel, Osprey, is the largest whale watching boat on San Juan Island and features two decks, plenty of room to move around, indoor seating, and an onboard galley with snacks, beverages, and hot drinks.

Medium Boats

San Juan Safaris' Sea Lion departs from Friday Harbor or Roche Harbor, depending on the season and demand. The vessel features a walk-around deck, bow seating, windowed cabin, and a full restroom. Sitting just five feet above the water, it offers excellent viewing and is also available for private charters, family gatherings, or corporate retreats.

Small Boats

San Juan Safaris

Kestrel is San Juan Island’s fastest Zodiac-style whale watching vessel, ideal for guests seeking a high-energy adventure. The boat accommodates up to 24 passengers, includes high-quality exposure suits, wraparound observation seating, and a restroom.

Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

Western Prince operates a bright orange Zodiac that seats just 15 passengers. Guests are outfitted in wind- and weather-proof gear for a fast, exhilarating 2.5-hour tour focused on close-to-the-water wildlife viewing.

Maya's Legacy Whale Watching

Maya’s Legacy offers an intimate, comfort-forward whale watching experience with no more than 15 guests per tour. Their custom-designed boats feature theater-style seating and a heated cabin, making this a great option in cooler or windier conditions.

The 3 Best Places to see Orca Whales from Land on San Juan Island

In case you and yours aren’t at ease on a whale watching boat or want to spend your vacation bucks on other adventures, just grab your binoculars and head to the West Side, where the endangered gentle giants live.

Whale Watching with San Juan Safaris

When our friends visited from the East Coast this Fall, they shared that what they wanted more than anything else was to see Orca whales in the wild. We knew exactly what to plan: a San Juan Island getaway with a whale watching tour with San Juan Safaris.

A Whale of a Weekend on San Juan Island

As soon as you step off the ferry in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island you are immersed in all things whales. Whale watch and research vessels are bobbing in the harbor. Kayak and whale watch tour offices line the streets together with cafes, restaurants and galleries.