San Juan Islands Sea Kayaking Adventure
$3500
Deposit: $500
Why Travel with Chicas Abroad?
- Small, intimate groups (6-10 women)
- Perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation
- Unique experiences best shared with a group of adventurous women
- Fun and experienced tour leaders who truly care about YOU
- A casual, judgment-free atmosphere
Who is Chicas Abroad?
We take women on small group adventures around the globe! We will take you out in nature to hike, kayak, bike, and do all the things with a fun group of adventure-seeking women! We also offer custom-curated adventures for you and your friends/family. Reach out to info@chicasabroad.com for more information. You can see all of our upcoming adventures and learn more about our company at chicasabroad.com
About this trip
Embark on a 5-day kayaking and hiking adventure through the breathtaking San Juan Islands, where the wild beauty of Washington’s coastline meets the thrill of discovery. Designed for adventurous women, this trip is a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and the joy of exploration.
Your journey begins in Anacortes, WA, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful first night and get your blood pumping with scenic hikes at Deception Pass and Mount Erie. These stunning viewpoints will set the tone for the adventure ahead. The next day, you’ll head to Friday Harbor for an exhilarating whale-watching tour in search of the famous resident Orcas and pods of playful seals.
After an evening spent in a cozy, charming hotel in Friday Harbor, you’ll swap land for sea as you paddle out into the majestic Puget Sound. With nothing but the vast blue ocean around you, you’ll explore hidden coves, remote beaches, and lush islands where you can immerse yourself in the forests. Along the way, you’ll camp under the stars, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the water.
And throughout the entire journey, you’ll be pampered by your expert kayaking guides, who not only keep you safe but will also cook up delicious meals that feel like a feast after a day of adventure.
Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or just looking for a new challenge, this trip is a perfect way to connect with nature, push your limits, and make memories with a group of like-minded women. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime – it’s time to leave the ordinary behind and embrace the wild!
Highlights
Activity Level: Moderate
The hikes will be moderate level with minimal elevation gain. The paddling will be moderate level and our experienced kayaking guide will make sure everyone is comfortable prior to hitting the water. We will all be in double kayaks, so you will have a partner to help you do the paddling work. If you have the opportunity prior to the trip, borrow or rent a kayak to get some practice in. You do not need to be an expert hiker or kayaker to partake in this adventure, but being familiar with kayaking is helpful.
Weather
In late June, the San Juan Islands experience mild, pleasant summer weather. Daytime highs generally range from 65°F to 73°F (18°C to 23°C), while overnight lows drop to the cool upper 40s. Rain is minimal as the islands sit in the Olympic Mountain rainshadow.
Money & Tipping
All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items.All gratuities are included with the exception of those for your Chicas Abroad tour leader. Tipping the Chicas Abroad tour leader is optional and not included in the price of your adventure.
Packing List
A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime?
Sneak Peek Trip Details
Day 1 - Anacortes
Drive from Seattle to Anacortes and Hike on Mt. Erie
Your adventure begins when you land in Seattle, where you’ll be greeted by your Chicas Abroad Guide. Around 2:00 PM, we’ll meet as a group and take a scenic drive to Anacortes, about an hour away.
After settling in, we’ll head to Mount Erie Park for a hike with sweeping panoramic views of the San Juan Islands—an inspiring first look at the landscapes we’ll explore more in the days ahead.
We’ll end the day back in town with a Welcome Dinner, a relaxed and festive evening to connect, share stories, and kick off the weekend together.
Let the adventure begin.
Hiking: ~2.5 hours, Moderate, 4.4 miles
Accommodations: Anacortes Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner, Snacks
Day 2 - Whale Watching
Hike, Ferry to Friday Harbor, and Whale Watch
Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure. We’ll start with a scenic morning hike at Deception Pass, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking parks, with dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and lush coastal forest.
After the hike, we’ll head to Anacortes to catch the noon ferry to Friday Harbor, soaking in the beauty of the Puget Sound along the way. Once we arrive, we’ll drop our bags and set out on a 3–4 hour whale-watching tour in the San Juan Islands, guided by a marine naturalist as we search for orcas, eagles, seals, and more.
After the tour, you’ll have time to relax at our cozy hotel before we head out for dinner at a local restaurant to enjoy fresh flavors and reflect on the day.
A perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and connection—this is a day you won’t forget.
Hiking: ~2.5 hours, moderate, 4.8 miles
Accommodations: Hotel, Friday Harbor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking from Island to Island and Setting Up Camp
Today we take to the water for an unforgettable sea kayaking adventure. After pairing up and packing our expedition kayaks with gear, our guides will walk us through a quick safety and skills review before we set off.
We’ll launch from a scenic San Juan Island beach and paddle along the Haro Strait, with views of the Canadian Gulf Islands and the chance to spot orcas, seals, and other wildlife along the way. After a few hours on the water, we’ll stop for a fresh, guide-prepared lunch before continuing to our island campsite (kept a surprise for a little extra magic).
Once we arrive, we’ll set up camp among madronas, cedars, and firs, then unwind as our guide prepares a delicious dinner to enjoy by the water. To end the day, you can take an optional short hike for sunset views before settling in for a peaceful night under the stars.
A full day of paddling, connection, and wild beauty—this is what it’s all about.
Paddling: Approximately 5 hours and 7-10 miles
Accommodations: Backcountry camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
Day 4-Kayaking & Hiking
Day Tripping On and Around the Islands
With basecamp set, today is all about exploring the surrounding islands. You’ll have the chance to kayak to hidden coves, take short hikes, and soak in the beauty of this remote landscape while your guide shares insights about the local ecology.
The day offers a balanced mix of paddling, exploring, and downtime. Keep an eye out for wildlife—seals on the rocks, eagles overhead, and maybe even orcas passing through.
Back at camp, you can choose to hike, relax, or unwind while your guide prepares another delicious meal. We’ll end the day gathered around the campfire, sharing stories under a sky full of stars.
A slower, soul-filling day to connect with nature, each other, and the magic of this place.
Paddling and Hiking: Varies, but a full day mix of both!
Accommodations: Backcountry Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
Day 5 - Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking back to Friday Harbor and Depart for Home
We’ll start the day by packing up camp and loading our kayaks for the final stretch of our journey. By now, you’ll feel confident on the water as we paddle back, taking in the scenery one last time and watching for seals, eagles, and maybe even a final whale sighting.
Along the way, we’ll pause for a final gourmet lunch prepared by your guide before continuing on to Friday Harbor. If time allows, you may have a chance to freshen up at the marina before we catch the afternoon ferry back to the mainland.
From there, we’ll drive to Seattle, arriving in time for evening departures (we recommend flights after 6:00 PM). As the trip comes to a close, you’ll head home with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of adventure.
Paddling: Approximately 5 hours and 7-10 miles
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
Let’s Make This Journey Yours
What’s included
Lodging
1 night in Anacortes in a hotel, 1 night in Friday Harbor in a hotel, 2 nights in shared tents with sleeping bags and pads provided
Ground Transport
Transportation will be provided to and from the Seattle Airport as well as the transportation to Anacortes and the ferry to and from Friday Harbor.
Tips for Local Guides
Generous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides and drivers. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader(s) are optional and at your discretion.
Meals
All meals included (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners)
Excursions
Deception Pass park fees, whale watching, 3 days guided sea kayaking
Chicas Abroad Swag
Lifelong memories
What’s not included
Flights
Arrive to the Seattle Airport by 2:00 pm on Wednesday, June 23rd. Depart from the Seattle Airport on Sunday, June 27th no earlier than 6:00 pm.
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense.
Chicas Abroad Leader Tip
Your Chicas Abroad tour leader works countless hours before and during the trip to ensure a seamless experience so you can adventure more and worry less! $30-50 per day is typical and much appreciated