classes to boost your skills while paddling in many of the most epic spots in the islands . Learn about trip planning , tidal rapids and currents , rescue and safety , marine navigation , rolling and even canoeing .
Blind Bay is a favorite kayaking spot near Shaw Island .
simply don ’ t know how little they know about the islands . I can ’ t tell you how many times every summer I hear some novice say ‘ We should paddle away when the tide is going out and back to the island when it ’ s coming in , right ?’ ”
Take a Class If you ’ re a beginner , intermediate or advanced sea kayaker , Orcas based Body Boat and Blade offers one to five day
Shoreline Access and Private Property Much of the San Juan shorelines are privatized . To avoid conflicts and to respect the locals , focus your landings and camping to state park , DNR , city land and public moorage in marinas . The waterproofed paddler designed SeaTrails maps show private shorelines throughout the islands . If you ’ re unsure , ask one of the paddling outfitters .
What to Wear The water in and around the San Juan ’ s are mostly cold throughout the year . Shallow or protected inlets and coves may warm up in summer months , but its best to dress for immersion . If you ’ re paddling on your own , consider a full wet or dry suit for warmth . Farmer John ’ s are another option for warmer days .
In camp , a long-sleeved t-shirt , shorts or quick drying synthetic pants and sandals work for the day , then layer up with warmer synthetic options such as down , SmartWool or similar for the evening .
Booties protect your feet on rocky shores . Avoid shoes with laces which can get caught on your foot braces if you need to wet exit the boat . Gloves in summer may be optional per person , but on cooler days will keep you toasty . Keep the sun out of your eyes with a wide brimmed hat or neoprene skull cap with a brim . Sun block is always a great idea given the sunny weather in the islands . Consider taking a rain shell or warm coat to put on after your paddle or while taking a break .
Boat and SUP Repair Much of the San Juan ’ s shorelines are rocky . If you ’ re paddling close to shore or hauling out on rugged beaches , you may get a ding ( dent or hole ) in your hull . Pack along a repair kit consisting of silver foil tape ( goes on when wet ) for quick fixes and UV curing Solarez or five-minute epoxy for longer term repairs . A small piece of sandpaper will help you clean and prepare the damaged section prior to adding tape or epoxy . In addition , for SUPs , bring extra parachute cord for leash string backups and an additional fin and fin screw and plate . For both kayaks and SUPs , bring a multitool , extra bungees for deck outfitting repairs .
First Aid Kit A basic on-water first aid kit that will fit in a small waterproof dry bag – Band- Aids and medical tape , chemical heat packs , Advil and Tylenol , pocket mylar bag for hypothermia and personal prescription medication including your Epi-pen . Additional items : Nauzene for seasickness or nausea , cake icing for diabetics , Saline , tweezers , Benadryl , electrolytes .
Safety Always wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket ( PFD ). Some may place their PFD on their boat or paddle boards , but if you get separated from your craft you ’ ll also lose your PFD . Look for a PFD with accessible easy to open pockets and high visibility so boaters can see you . If you own a paddle board and use a waist C02 PFD test it out to prior to your trip . A leash is highly recommended for paddle boarders to prevent from losing your board after a fall .
In your PFD , carry your VHF radio attached by a string , an energy bar , whistle on string , dull tip knife , emergency reflector , watch and waterproof light , also on a string . Some PFD ’ s take a hydration pack .
A fully charged hand held floating waterproof VHF radio is more effective than a mobile phone in rural , remote or offshore areas for inter-person communication and emergencies . Attach the
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