Friday Harbor

Exhibits include life-sized whale models, articulated skeletons, information on the endangered Southern Resident killer whales' family groups (pods), and current scientific research on local species. Other exhibits feature pinnipeds, porpoises and other marine mammals of the Salish Sea, wildlife videos, and Northwest Native American culture and artifacts relating to marine mammals.

Friday Harbor houses one of the oldest and most famous marine research institutions, Friday Harbor Laboratories (or Labs, as it better known to locals). Situated inside University of Washington Biological Reserve, you will see island raccoons, tree frogs, banana slugs, Columbian black-tailed deer, Norway rat, White-footed mouse etc.

The United States and Great Britain once made overlapping claims on the San Juan Islands. In 1859, they nearly went to war over a dead pig. Both established a military presence on the island, which are now preserved by this park.

The main park visitor center has exhibits, park film, a bookstore, and rangers on hand. You can visit the original officer’s quarters, the Redoubt, and the Laundress Quarters, and several hiking trails originate here.

Cattle Point and its old lighthouse overlook the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Cattle Pass. On a clear, beautiful day you can feel the wind of the Pacific and see across the strait to the Olympic Peninsula.

With a location downtown where the ferry drops you off. Discovery Sea Kayaks has been running tours with routes that deliver the opportunity to see one of the three Orca Pods that travel their region. Experienced naturalist guides provide a safe and educational kayak adventure.

see wild orca whales (more than 80 resident orcas), seals, porpoise, dolphin, eagles, blue heron, rafts of sea birds. A fast 55-foot boat with large windowed cabin, walk around deck and bathroom. Excellent reputation for respectful wildlife viewing.