Sea kayak tour along the south shore of Orcas Island .
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PADDLING MEC-
CA , THE San Juan Islands are the most popular paddling destination in the Pacific Northwest with thousands of visitors seeking paddling tours and rentals every summer . Some bring their own paddling gear while others paddle to the islands from the mainland in search of adventure . The San Juan archipelago consists of 172 named and approximately 500 unnamed islands , islets and reefs . Of those , 83 are part of the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge , established in 1976 . The rugged madrone and fir lined islands , protected inlets and bays as well as quaint shoreline villages add to the many reasons why the San Juan ’ s are such a draw for visitors . A rain shadow , islanders enjoy a drier climate , blue skies and more sun than those 45 miles to the south in Seattle .
The islands are home to the southern resident Orcas , J , K and L pods who frequent the waters spring through fall . Gray and humpback whales show in the summer months . Transient Orcas are seen throughout the year as are minke whales , bald eagles , harbor seals , porpoise , stellar sea lions and abundant marine bird life .
Some seek tranquil moments in remote , off-the-beaten path coves , while others prefer large group kayaking tours while searching for Orcas off San Juan Island . Experienced paddlers may seek the ultimate challenge of crossing Rosario Strait , known for its swift currents and large waves or play in the swift swirling tidal rapids of Cattle Pass off Lopez Island ’ s southwest corner . The Cascadia Marine Trail provides 20 paddle-in campsites for paddlers looking for a peaceful escape from the mainland .
Surrounded by a ring of strong currents and often turbulent waterways , the San Juan ’ s can be a challenging paddling destination . Even the inner islands , which have less current , can be windy and have bustling boat and ferry traffic . There are many options for all skill levels of paddlers looking for a paddling adventure in the islands . Smart planning will help you have the best experience possible .
WHAT ’ S THE BEST PLAN FOR YOU ? Tours If you want to kayak in the San Juan ’ s
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