Paddle to a quiet island for a picnic, hiking, and coastal exploration
5 hours
Up to 8 people
Tandem kayak, gear, guide
Explore the islands by tandem kayak, with time ashore for a picnic and a walk on a small state park island or isolated beach. Enjoy coastal views and look for wildlife on the water and along the shore.
Typical Schedule (route and timing may vary with conditions)
Group size: Up to 8 people (larger groups possible with advance notice)
For 1–4 people, cancel more than 7 days before departure for a refund less $15 per person. For 5+ people, cancel more than 14 days before departure for a refund less $10 per person. Late cancellations, changes, late arrivals, and no-shows are refunded only if the trip is filled. No refunds for delayed or canceled ferries. Full refund if the operator cancels and you do not reschedule.
Product ID: KYC5VS
Bring clothing for the day’s weather (layers and a wind jacket are recommended), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), secure footwear (sport sandals, water shoes, or sneakers; avoid flip-flops), drinking water, and a packable lunch and snacks. Bring gratuity for your guide if you’d like to tip. Cameras and phones are at your own risk; a waterproof case is recommended.
Yes. You launch from shore, so expect your feet to get wet.
Yes. You start with about 30 minutes of gear adjustment and basic instruction.
Deer Harbor Marina, 5164 Deer Harbor Rd, Deer Harbor, WA 98243
Kayaking around Orcas Island becomes genuinely special when your guide knows every current, creature, and story of the San Juans. The guides here consistently earn praise for their deep knowledge of marine life and local ecosystems, with names like Dan, Moe, Nara, and Mason appearing repeatedly as standouts. They strike that sweet balance between being informative naturalists and relaxed companions on the water. Expect to see harbor seals, jellyfish, starfish, and bald eagles on most tours, with guides carefully keeping appropriate distances from wildlife. The small group sizes mean plenty of personal attention, which first-time kayakers especially appreciate. Tours launch from both Deer Harbor and Doe Bay, with three-hour excursions being the most popular choice. The bioluminescence tours also get rave reviews for those visiting during the right season. Equipment quality is solid, including tandem kayaks for couples and dry bags for belongings. The company shows flexibility too, offering to reschedule when weather looks questionable rather than pushing ahead with less-than-ideal conditions.
We did a kayak trip with Ari from Brandt Landing. It was very convenient to our Airbnb, Ari was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and gave instruction well. We were lucky to have the kayak trip with just myself and my husband so we got his dedicated attention. Highly recommend!
Alisa Schreier
August 31, 2026
We did a kayak trip with Ari from Brandt Landing. It was very convenient to our Airbnb, Ari was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and gave instruction well. We were lucky to have the kayak trip with just myself and my husband so we got his dedicated attention. Highly recommend!
Alisa Schreier
August 31, 2026
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