In today’s hyper-connected world, technology often feels like an extension of ourselves. From endless scrolling to constant notifications, it’s easy to feel like there’s always a screen between us and the present moment. But what if we could take a break? What if we could truly unplug – and in doing so, reconnect with nature, ourselves, and perhaps the other people we’re with? Outdoor Odysseys Sea Kayaking in Washington’s San Juan Islands is encouraging just that. By inviting guests to set aside their devices, the tours offer a rare chance to fully immerse in the beauty of nature and experience…
REI Adventures and Outdoor Odysseys
In the early 90s, during the infancy of their Adventures program, REI reached out to Clark Casebolt, who had recently founded Outdoor Odysseys Sea Kayaking. Clark proudly partnered with REI Adventures for nearly 20 years, bringing paddlers face-to-face with the breathtaking beauty of the San Juan Islands. Together, Outdoor Odysseys and REI Adventurers embarked on thrilling paddling adventures through pristine waters, rugged shorelines, and under the starlit sky, sharing unforgettable meals that became a hallmark of Outdoor Odysseys. Although our formal collaboration ended in 2011, the impact of those years remains deeply cherished in our story. Partnering with REI allowed…
A Case for Kayaking: Wildlife Observation
Upon arrival to Friday Harbor, it becomes apparent that to get anywhere beyond downtown, you will need to find a means of transportation beyond your own two feet. Mopeds whizz by, seaplanes whirr overhead, and boats of every shape and size putt around the harbor. These all represent viable options for exploring the San Juans, but for those hoping to lay eyes on the more elusive wildlife of the region, we argue that no better option exists than to paddle, under your own power, by kayak. Kayaks separate themselves from motorized watercraft through their lack of engine noise. Save for…
Wildflower Season in the San Juan Islands
Ah, the Spring Shoulder Season! This is our favorite time of year in our small corner of Washington State. The days get longer, the beaches are quiet, and the wildflowers emerge. Our favorite spot to view the wildflowers is from the water on a kayak. On our 3-Day Specialty Kayak Camping Tours, we paddle past Yellow Island, one of the only islands in the San Juans that is a dedicated and protected nature preserve. Yellow Island is 11-acres of beautiful shoreline and grassy hills that are home to flora and fauna unique to the San Juan Islands. “The native grasslands…
Passing the “Special Ops” Torch
Hello blog readers! My name is Anna. I’ve been the Operations Coordinator at Outdoor Odysseys for the past two and a half years. This year I am transitioning out of the role and becoming part-time alumni/ part-time training consultant/ part-time business hype woman. During my time at Outdoor Odysseys I’ve fielded thousands of phone calls, run countless van shuttles, and helped plan too many fun parties and guide dinners. I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed my time living in Friday Harbor. Here is my favorite “must see & do” if you find yourself on island during the summer: Westcott Bay Shellfish Company…
Cheers to Summer 2023!
The sun is shining, the boats are getting clean, and we are ready to be back on the water in the Salish Sea! We started opening the shop at the beginning of May and things are falling back into place. Every winter we close up shop, clean and organize everything to sit over the winter. Coming back in the spring and unpacking always feels very nostalgic of summers past. Once the hammock goes up in the cherry tree and all the vans are parked and ready to go – it really feels like the beginning of summer. We kicked off…
Summer Whales and Wildlife in the San Juan Islands
Our Unique Island Home The paddling, hiking, local food and quite town are all a draw for people visiting Friday Harbor and San Juan Island, but the true gem of this outdoor oasis is the wildlife in and around the islands. Whether you’re watching a bald eagle scoop a fish out of the water, getting splashed by Popeye the seal in the harbor, or delighting at the breaching of a young whale, the wildlife of the San Juan Islands never disappoint. Ever Changing Wildlife The wildlife here in the Salish Sea sure love to keep us on our toes. For…
Kayaking the San Juan Islands in Spring
Plan Now to Get The Best Dates & Best Deals at One of Western Washington’s Top Destinations! As the secret gets outs, we’re seeing a growing numbers of visitors to our idyllic little island every year, especially in the summer months. This makes spring the perfect time to plan your trip to Friday Harbor and the San Juan Islands! Book now to get the room with a view, the reservation at the private table tucked away in the corner, or a coveted spot on our wine maker’s kayak tour before it’s too late. If you’re headed to the San Juan…
Visiting Friday Harbor
Visiting Friday Harbor After your San Juan Island kayak tour, but before you head home, take time to visit beautiful Friday Harbor. Whether you have a few moments while waiting for your ferry, or a few days to spend here, Friday Harbor has a variety of activities to enjoy. Book a whale watching trip, grab an ice cream cone, or wander down to the docks to say hi to Popeye the resident harbor seal. Historic Friday Harbor Nestled in the rain shadow of Washington State’s Olympic Mountains, Friday Harbor and the San Juan Islands get almost half as much rain per…
How to Plan your Day Trip to the San Juan Islands this Summer: A First Time Visitor’s Guide
The most beautiful islands in Western Washington! The San Juan Islands are gorgeous in so many different ways. From the cool quiet days of winter to the bustling hot summer days, Friday Harbor makes for a great escape. While the main draw to the island is kayaking with orcas, on any given visit you can expect to see a variety of wildlife. The orcas, though more prevalent in June, July and August pass through here every month of the year. Low tide walks unveil sea stars, anemones and crabs, with views of seals and sea lions playing in the water…