Seattle · WHALE WATCHING & SAN JUAN ISLANDS
9 reviewed
Think of this as the shortlist we would send a friend: the 9 whale watching & san juan islands tours worth booking, each with its price, its traveller verdict, and the one thing to know before you commit.
A 4-hour whale and wildlife cruise from Seattle’s Pier 69, with onboard naturalists, Salish Sea sightings, and flexible routing.
“Not only did we see Orca, we saw a family pod of Biggs Transients. We even got to see them hunt! Our captains, support staff, and naturalist guide were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. 10/10 would go again!”
Seattle’s Pier 69 whale watch aboard FRS Clipper in the Salish Sea with orcas, humpbacks, and a naturalist plus snacks on board.
“A bit underwhelming since we didn’t see many whales. There was just one whale roaming and not enough time.”
Fly from Seattle by seaplane to the San Juan Islands in a small group, with island time, Puget Sound views, and aerial landmarks.
“Lots of fun. Amazing to have a view from the air. We only flew at 900 ft so we could get great views of everything.”
Guided kayak to Hope Island Marine State Park from Arcadia Point, with wildlife spotting and trail time for $89.
“This kayak tour was such a blast! We spent about three hours out on the water in a double kayak, and it was the perfect pace, not too rushed, but never boring. The stop at Hope Island was a nice break, and it was cool to get out and wander around before heading back. Ross and Doug were awesome guides, super friendly, laid-back, and full of good stories. They made the whole trip feel easy and fun, and you could tell they really enjoy what they do. All in all, it was just a really fun experience and a great way to spend the day. I’d definitely recommend it if…”
Private Deception Pass day trip from Seattle with ferry ride, Coupeville, Fort Casey, lighthouse views, and Whidbey Island time.
“Cheryl was excellent tour guide…went above and beyond. Great menu if interesting sites to visit that are off beaten path”
Private SUV Whidbey Island tour with ferry crossing, Deception Pass, Admiralty Head Lighthouse, Fort Casey, and Coupeville Wharf. Pickup included.
“Cheryl was an amazingly informative tour guide. We laughed, had a great lunch and enjoyed everything about the day. Thank you for making our day a little bit brighter. Pat M and Mo R.”
See Skagit Valley tulip fields, hike Kukutali Preserve, and frame Deception Pass from above and sea level on this Seattle day trip.
“So thankful that I got to see these fields of tulips. They were so beautiful and so was the Puget Sound around Deception Pass. Dwight was a wonderful guide who picked us up from the hotel. He gave us lots of information as we drove to and from the tulip fields. It was so worth the money for this tour. My family and I enjoyed it very much!”
Chase Orcas and other whales from Anacortes, then explore Deception Pass old-growth trails with a naturalist guide and included lunch.
“This was an AMAZING Day!!! Our tour guide Matthew was completely incredible and we had so much fun. The provided lunch was a culinary feast (not a sandwich as expected). We got lots of history while traveling. On the Whale watching, we saw Humpback whales "courting" and then we saw Orcas playing. The Orcas put on quite the show for our tour!! And then on the way back, we saw sea lions on a small island. The homemade cookie at the end of the day was such a sweet touch!”
Skagit Valley birding, Deception Pass, and Whidbey Island in one Seattle day tour. Small group, naturalist guide, picnic lunch.
“The tour was amazing and every place we visited was beautiful. Evan was very knowledgeable and passionate about the local wildlife and ecosystems. He made us a delicious picnic and let us choose a few places to visit at the end. I highly recommend this tour!”
