The San Juan Islands are a treasure trove for travelers craving a mix of wildlife, stunning scenery, and outdoor activities. Located off the coast of Washington State, this archipelago offers diverse experiences — from watching orcas from land at Lime Kiln Point to exploring rugged mountain landscapes in Canada. Full-day tours here are especially popular because they reveal the islands’ natural splendor without feeling rushed. Whether you prefer floating through wildlife habitats in a kayak or taking in mountain vistas from a gondola, there’s an adventure tailored to your interests.
What makes these trips stand out is their focus on authentic experiences — like seeing local seals, porpoises, orcas, or enjoying panoramic views atop Whistler’s peaks. The region’s compact size means you can pack a lot into one day, and the well-reviewed tours ensure your time is well spent. With options that range from a half-day paddling trip to an all-day explorer’s journey into Canada’s mountains, you’ll find something that suits your pace and curiosity.
Quick Overview
Our list features two of the best full-day tours in the San Juan Islands. The first is a Full Day San Juan Island Kayaking Adventure that combines wildlife viewing and outdoor fun with a delicious beachside lunch. The second is a Full-Day Private Tour from Bellingham to Whistler B.C. that takes you into the mountains, waterfalls, and gondola rides of Whistler. Both tours provide memorable experiences, but cater to different types of travelers — one for outdoor lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the other for scenic mountain explorers.
Below, we explore each tour in detail, helping you decide which might be the best fit for your trip.
1. Full Day San Juan Island Kayaking Adventure
At number one, the Full Day San Juan Island Kayaking Adventure offers an immersive day on the water, perfect for those who love wildlife and outdoor activity. This six-hour trip includes a friendly guide who will help you navigate the waters of the Haro Strait, an area known for its abundant marine life. You’ll float past colonies of seals and porpoises, and if you’re lucky, spot orcas — one of the most thrilling wildlife sightings in the Pacific Northwest.
A highlight of this tour is the beachside lunch prepared on a scenic stretch of shoreline, with views of the Olympic Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. The tour is designed to accommodate both experienced and first-time kayakers, making it accessible for most. The guides share insightful information about the local ecosystem, enhancing your understanding of the area’s natural beauty. The stops include Lime Kiln Point State Park, renowned as one of the best spots in the world for viewing orcas from land, and San Juan County Park, a popular camping and picnic spot with sweeping views.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 233 reviews, travelers rave about the small group setting, the knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to see wildlife up close. One reviewer mentioned, “Hunter was the best guide! We were able to see so many orcas!” The tour is a fantastic value at $126.65 per person, providing a full day of active exploration, wildlife sightings, and memorable scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers who want a mix of wildlife and outdoor activity in a friendly, well-reviewed setting.
2. Full-Day Private Tour from Bellingham to Whistler B.C.
Coming in at number two is the Full-Day Private Tour from Bellingham to Whistler B.C.. This 12-hour journey is perfect for those wanting to experience the dramatic mountain scenery and waterfalls of Canada’s famous ski resort town. The tour kicks off with a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Ski Highway, passing by Shannon Falls, with its 1,000-foot cascade, and Brandywine Falls, another impressive drop that’s accessible for easy viewing.
From there, you’ll ride the Ski to Sky Gondola, which takes you up to panoramic views that stretch across lush forests and rugged mountain peaks. Whistler Village offers a lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The tour includes multiple gondola rides — Peak to Peak, Blackcomb, and Whistler Gondolas — giving you the chance to see the mountains from every angle. This private experience allows for personalized stops and flexibility, making it ideal for travelers who want a tailored day in the mountains.
While there are no reviews yet, the itinerary emphasizes natural beauty and outdoor adventure, appealing strongly to outdoor enthusiasts and scenery lovers. The tour costs $1,150 per person, reflecting the private and extensive nature of the experience. If you’re looking for a full day of mountain vistas, waterfalls, and fresh mountain air, this tour delivers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to explore rugged landscapes and mountain panoramas with a flexible, private guide.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and what kind of experience you value most. If wildlife viewing and kayaking sound appealing, the Full Day San Juan Island Kayaking Adventure offers a balanced mix of active water-based exploration and scenic lunch stops. It’s also more budget-friendly and suitable for a wide range of skill levels.
On the other hand, if you prefer mountain scenery, waterfalls, and a private, flexible itinerary, the Full-Day Private Tour from Bellingham to Whistler B.C. might be your best choice. It involves a longer day, but offers a comprehensive look at some of the most striking landscapes in the region.
Consider your budget, fitness level, and interest in wildlife versus mountain vistas when choosing. Both tours are best booked well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Both of these full-day tours provide memorable ways to experience the San Juan Islands and nearby regions. The kayaking adventure offers an active, wildlife-rich day perfect for outdoor lovers, while the Whistler trip appeals to those craving mountain scenery and natural waterfalls. If your time and budget allow, doing both could give you a well-rounded taste of the Pacific Northwest’s diverse landscapes. Be sure to book early to secure your spot, and prepare for a day full of natural beauty — whether on water or mountain peaks.