A great place to spot killer whales is off the north coast of San Juan Island in Puget Sound. We had a beautiful day with our friends in the channel between the island and British Columbia.
Orcas migrate past the Washington coast and enter Puget Sound in the spring and fall. Sea kayaking is an excellent way to watch for them because, if you don't see any, you're still having a great time!
One precaution, though: If whales are sighted, there can be dozens of tourist-packed whale-watching motorboats in the area within minutes. Most of the professional guides are responsible boaters, but there are plenty of amateurs, and in their jockeying for the best position they could put you in a bad one.
Getting there: First, if you don't have kayaks, rent everything you need in Seattle. Then drive to Anacortes, Washington, and take the ferry to Friday Harbor. Drive to the north end of the island. There are a couple of state parks there with beaches where you can put in. Lime Kiln is a good choice.
Stats: Paddle as far as you want, but bear in mind that outgoing tides and afternoon winds will greatly affect your paddle home.
Photo: Leslie (front) and Denis. (Skip Lutz photo.)
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use. If you are not comfortable being your own guide, you can hire one in Friday Harbor. Ask at the information office, next to Harbor Bookstore, at the ferry dock.