One of the most memorable things to do in the San Juan Islands is whale watching, and we’re right in the middle of the best time for seeing these amazing marine mammals. Our beautiful archipelago, about 90 miles North of Seattle, is home to some of the country’s most brilliant wildlife and pristine wilderness shows. The San Juan Islands are comprised of more than 170 islands, with four main stops on the Washington State Ferries from Anacortes: Lopez Island, Shaw Island, Orcas, and San Juan Island in our charming downtown of Friday Harbor.
As you glide into Friday Harbor, you may even catch a glimpse of the whale watching tour boats at the dock or heading out on the Salish Sea—many of the local excursions depart from this marina. Peak whale watching season starts in May and extends through September, and the waters off San Juan Island offer some of the best whale watching in Washington. Summer also happens to be one of the most beautiful times to visit the islands for warm sunny days, sparkling, crisp waters, and so many fun outdoor things to do.
Summer also brings more people to the islands, so securing your Friday Harbor lodging is ever-important, and our bed and breakfast is one of the best places to stay in the San Juan Islands, especially if you’re heading here for a whale watching excursion. Firstly, we offer concierge services to take all of the guesswork out of which local company to hit the water with, and we will get you all booked up and ready to go. Secondly, we’re within walking distance of the Friday Harbor marina, and lastly, you’ll love our comfortable and elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites as your home away from home. Book your Friday Harbor lodging today!
The Best Time for whale watching in the San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands provide an exceptional opportunity for whale watching, especially between the months of May and September. During this period, the waters are teeming with numerous whale species, including transient orca pods and Humpback Whales, as they visit the rich feeding grounds located off the coast of the San Juan Islands. Making it one of the best times to visit!
When it comes to choosing the best time for whale watching, several reputable operators are based on San Juan Island, many of which depart from Friday Harbor. These tours offer various experiences, ranging from intimate outings on small boats and thrilling zodiac-style adventures to more comfortable and spacious vessels.
To ensure the best whale watching experience in the San Juan Islands, we recommend carefully selecting a tour operator from the options provided below. As a guest at our Friday Harbor lodging property, our concierge service is dedicated to helping you narrow down your choices and secure a tour that aligns with your goal of an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
- San Juan Safaris offers thrilling whale watching tours from Friday Harbor, where guests can see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. With experienced naturalists on board and small group sizes, they provide an educational and intimate experience, ensuring a memorable adventure on the waters of the San Juan Islands.
- Another local favorite, San Juan Island Outfitters, offers personalized whale watching trips led by expert naturalists out of Roche Harbor. These trips provide guests with an educational and unforgettable experience on the water. With a variety of tour options, they ensure close encounters with orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in the scenic San Juan Islands.
- Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching offers intimate, small-group tours in San Juan Island from Snug Harbor and Friday Harbor. These tours provide an exceptional opportunity to see whales and diverse marine wildlife up close in the Salish Sea. Expert captains and marine naturalists lead the tours, ensuring a memorable and educational experience amidst the region’s stunning natural beauty.
- The knowledgeable guides at San Juan Excursions offer guests an insightful trip out on the Salish Sea. They head out from Friday Harbor with the goal of seeing lots of local wildlife, including orcas, harbor seals, sea lions, porpoise, and much more.
For those who would prefer whale watching from dry land, Lime Kiln Point State Park is one of the best places in the world to watch whales from shore. This beautiful state park is home to a historic lighthouse and offers an incredible viewpoint to see the whales traversing the Haro Strait.
The Best Friday Harbor Lodging for Your Whale Watching Getaways
The best time for whale watching in the San Juan Islands coincides with the peak tourist season, but even with more visitors in the area, there’s so much open wilderness, state parks, miles of shorelines, and hiking trails that you can still have a quiet and restful retreat. The best whale watching tours in the San Juan Islands are within walking distance of our Friday Harbor lodging property, making our Inn one of the most convenient choices for those coming to cross this activity off of their bucket list.
Our property offers an array of lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfast rooms for two to spacious suites for small groups or families and even a whole house rental for a bigger group. We’re a popular destination for weddings and events, with catering on-site through our sister business, Coho Restaurant, and lovely wedding packages that take all the stress away from the big day.
There’s a long list of perks included with your stay; and we never charge a resort fee or activity service charges. Free parking, friendly concierge services, and bike and kayak rentals are just a few to name. But one of our favorite amenities is our home-cooked, scratch-made breakfast that we deliver to your room each morning of your stay. Past guests often call it one of the best parts of staying at Friday Harbor Bed and Breakfast. We can’t wait to host you for whale watching season; book your lodging today!
