Kayak after sunset to look for bioluminescence on San Juan Island
3.5 hours
Up to 10 people
Guide, kayak, safety gear
Launch just before sunset and paddle into a protected bay as darkness falls. You’ll tour in small groups with trained guides and tandem fiberglass sea kayaks.
Check-in is 15 minutes before your reserved departure time. There is no restroom at check-in, but there is a restroom at the beach.
Groups 5 or fewer: 60+ days full refund; 31–59 days lose 50% deposit/total; 0–30 days no refund; no-shows full charge. Groups 6+: 90+ days full refund; 60–89 days lose 50%; 0–59 days no refund. If operator cancels, full refund of tour cost.
Bring a headlamp (use it on land only), shoes you can get wet, and water or another non-alcoholic beverage. Wear long sleeves with a short-sleeve layer under, plus a season-appropriate hat; gloves are optional. Eat dinner before you go, and do not consume alcohol before the kayak tour.
Yes. You will not be back in time to catch the ferry off the island, so secure lodging for the evening. Not having lodging does not change the cancellation policy.
Select a ferry sailing that arrives as early as possible and build in several hours before your scheduled departure. If you miss the tour due to ferry delays or missed ferries, it is treated as a same-day cancellation with no refund and no reschedule.
San Juan Island, Wa
Discovery Sea Kayak Tours delivers exceptional experiences on the water, with their bioluminescence tours standing out as a particular highlight. Guides like Brendan, Naomi, Caleb, Jethro, and Evan consistently earn praise for being knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely enthusiastic about marine life. Even complete beginners feel comfortable and well-cared for, with guides taking time to explain safety procedures and kayaking basics. The educational component is impressive, covering everything from edible kelp varieties to the science behind bioluminescence, while harbor seals and moon jellies make frequent appearances. The operation itself runs smoothly from start to finish. Check-in is straightforward, and the booking process is efficient. Multi-day camping trips impress with surprisingly gourmet meals prepared on camp stoves, including naan and coconut sweet potatoes. Reviewers emphasize feeling safe and well-equipped even during nighttime paddles, with proper gear provided to stay warm and dry. The company maintains high standards right through the season's end, with guides showing the same energy and dedication on the final tours as presumably they do all season long.
Had a great time out on the water with our guide Brendan who was very personable and knowledgeable about the Marine life, and especially all the varieties of (edible) kelp! Highly recommended.
Will Pugh
October 4, 2025
Had a great time out on the water with our guide Brendan who was very personable and knowledgeable about the Marine life, and especially all the varieties of (edible) kelp! Highly recommended.
Will Pugh
October 4, 2025