On the first cool Summer day in months we headed out on a three day, two night kayaking trip in the San Juan Islands with San Juan Outfitters. I had never been on such a long kayaking trip before so I was not entirely certain what to expect, but I had gone on several kayak and whale watching trips with San Juan Outfitters before and knew I could not go wrong. With just our guide and another eager couple we set out in our kayaks for an adventure of a lifetime.

Almost initially after leaving Roche Harbor we came upon a Washington State ferry. There is something inherently exciting and terrifying in crossing paths with a vessel so large.

One of the many highlights of our trip was encountering so much wildlife. No matter how many times I see a seal, there is something thrilling about it.

On our first day, we stopped for lunch at Gossip Island. We had the place to ourselves and were delighted when our guide Molly not only whipped up lunch, but pulled out a collapsible table. Such service! And a great start to what would be a weekend of one delicious meal after another.

Molly, our guide, effortlessly whipping up a delicious and healthy meal for us.

Refueled by our lunch, we continued on our way asking a myriad of questions and learning as we paddled.

Even though we were surrounded by islands, the scenery was diverse and interesting at every turn.

Molly talking to us about rock kelp.

When we finally unpacked we were laughing about all the gear. Three tents, three sleeping bags, a rain shelter, a stove, a table, dishes, water and enough food to feed a small army. I had no idea kayaks could haul so much stuff. I was pretty impressed.

Our gourmet fiesta dinner with homemade guacamole.

The stillness of the evening.

Gearing up to go out on our sunset paddle.

Enjoying the sunset from the comfort of our own kayak.

When you clear out the clutter of the world and work hard together it is easy to strike up meaningful conversations and connect with strangers in a way you would not be able to otherwise. The friendships formed on trips like these are what make this time extra meaningful.

After the sunset paddle we waited for it to become completely dark and then we headed out on the water for a third time to do a bioluminescent paddle. Even though I opted to leave my camera back at camp it was these magical moments on the water which will leave a lasting impression on me. Bioluminescent only occurs in a small handful of places around the world and the San Juan Islands are one of the premiere areas to view this phenomenon. For those of you who don't know what bioluminescence is, it is the production and emission of light by a living organism. Think of putting your hand or paddle in the water and then seeing a trail of glow stick or twinkle lights. It is utterly amazing to watch in the dark and stillness of the night.

When your excitement for the day gets you out of your tent at sunrise.

A hot breakfast to start the day off right.

Time away as a couple is priceless. I am grateful for parents who understand the importance of us getting away and going on our own adventures as a couple.

San Juan Outfitters thought of everything from card games to pillows and pillowcases. If you have never slept with a pillow while camping it is a total game changer. I had never slept so well in a tent in all my life.

A lunch of smoked salmon bagels and fruit.

Although the weather prevented us from circumnavigating Stuart Island, we were able to use our extra time to explore the island by foot.

Chicken curry for dinner.

Paddling back to Roche Harbor on a sunny, clear day.

If you are looking to try something new, take a unique vacation or want to get out on the water for a trip of a lifetime then might I suggest getting out on the water with San Juan Outfitters for an overnight trip.

This post was sponsored by San Juan Outfitters.

All opinions stated here are my own and I was under no obligation to write anything other than my personal experience. I will never write about anything I did not enjoy or find to be a valuable experience.