A whale ’ s jump is called a breach . It is classified as when more than 40 % of the animal ’ s body makes it above the water ’ s surface . Below , many of the bioluminescence kayak tours depart from Roche Harbor near dusk , allowing you to savor views before experiencing the magic of the ocean at night . lisette wolter-mckinley photo
Make Getting Around an Event
It took us a few years to realize you don ’ t need a car in order to explore San Juan Island . Susie ’ s Mopeds offers rentals of all kinds from mopeds and compact SUVs to scoot coupes and electric bicycles . There are endless routes and roads you can take around the island , but we typically like to head out to Cattle Point for tide pool exploring and a beach walk , stop by Pelindaba Lavender Farm , look for whales at Lime Kiln , take a pit stop at Westcott Bay Shellfish , and then onto Roche Harbor for dinner . These are just a few highlights of the island , but it is also fun to take random roads and meander your own way around the island .
Stay in a Room with a View
With almost every hotel room located close to or along a shoreline , it is easy to find a room with a view . One of our favorite places to stay in Friday Harbor is the Bird Rock hotel . It offers a central location with shared decks just begging to be enjoyed in the afternoon sun . And from the cozy rooms , you can watch seaplanes land as passengers wait for the ferry .
54 explore : NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air