Can you swim with orcas in San Juan Islands?

Is it safe to kayak with orcas? We have been paddling with orca whales since 1980 and know that these intelligent whales are always as aware of us as we are of them. They might be curious at times and swim extremely near, but with no malicious intent. It is illegal to paddle into their path.



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Peak season is considered the summer months of mid-June through early September. During this time, we see whales (orcas, humpbacks, greys and/or minkes) on over 90% of our tours. There are whales here year round, but much less predictably outside of those summer months.

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A weekend (two to three nights) is a perfect amount of time to spend on Orcas, plus that means you'll be able to catch the Saturday Farmers Market in Eastsound, which is fantastic.

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Eastsound, Orcas Island This walkable village bustles with life—a visitor's dream of galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and a history museum. Historically, it was the center of Coast Salish tribal commerce. Now, locals and visitors enjoy its natural beauty and quaint charms.

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Eagle Cove is located on the southwestern side of the island near American Camp – San Juan Island National Historic Park and is ideal for water sports. Due to the shallow water, the temperature warms making it more hospitable to activities such as swimming than many other island beaches.

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There have been isolated reports of Rubber Boas (Charina bottae) on San Juan Island and Sharp-Tailed Snakes (Contia tenuis) on San Juan and Orcas Islands, but only garter snakes (Thamnophis spp) are relatively abundant and widespread on the larger islands.

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Orcas Island's median sale price is 185% higher than the national average. Overall cost of living in Orcas Island is 38% higher than the national average. Learn which home features in Orcas Island add value to a home.

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In addition to wildlife, you'll find something for just about every interest on Orcas Island. From outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking to artisanal delights like crafts, wine, beer, and food, there is so much to do.

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What To Do On Orcas Island
  1. Stop By Orcas Island Pottery. ...
  2. Enjoy Seafood at Buck Bay Shellfish Farm. ...
  3. Hike Turtleback Mountain. ...
  4. Explore Mount Constitution. ...
  5. Go On a Whale Watching Tour. ...
  6. Photograph Moran State Park's Waterfalls. ...
  7. Venture to Eastsound, WA. ...
  8. Visit an Orchard or Fruit Stand.


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For the latest quarter assessed by the U.S. EPA (January 2021 - March 2021), tap water provided by this water utility was in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards.

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Eastsound is the largest town on the island and is home to a variety of accommodations and restaurants.

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