If you're ready for an epic adventure with badass women, check out REI's women’s kayaking trip in the San Juan Islands. This three-day escapade is packed with kayaking, hiking, wine drinking, and laughs that rival a comedy show. Picture connecting with nature while swapping life stories with like-minded ladies. It's a life-changing experience you'll cherish forever. Imagine a trip that went beyond your wildest dreams, transforming your perspective and leaving you with unforgettable memories and tales to share. A trip that had you grinning and giggling for three whole days. Well, let me tell you, such an experience exists! I recently embarked on an incredible all-women's kayaking and camping adventure with REI in the San Juan Islands, and it was absolutely fantastic.
My trip started off driving from Montana with my mom and sister for a 40th birthday surprise gift from my husband. We had no idea where we were going or what we were going to be doing. Along the way, we unraveled clues, turning our journey into a real-life Amazing Race. We didn't find out we'd be kayaking until a mere 10 hours before the trip was set to begin. Talk about some spontaneous fun!
Bright and early on day one, my sister, mom and myself rolled up to meet our group in our matching floral jumpsuits – the unofficial uniform of adventure enthusiasts. As we gathered in the Friday Harbor park with our gang of 12 awesome women and our friendly guides, we could tell it was going to be a wild weekend. We were shuttled over to Roche Harbor to kick things off. After some quick "hey, how ya doin'" intros and a lightning-fast kayaking 101 lesson, we paddled off, cruising through the crystal-clear water, headed for our campsite on Stuart Island.
For three amazing days, we embarked on thrilling adventures paddling around picturesque islands, hugging hidden coves, and encountering an array of wildlife. We were captivated by the sight of seals basking in the sun, birds soaring above, jellyfish gracefully gliding through the water, and vibrant sea stars decorating the rocky shores. Our sunset paddle was out of this world! As the sun dipped below the horizon it painted the sky with a mesmerizing blend of vibrant oranges and pinks. The alpenglow bathed the magnificent Mount Baker, adding an enchanting glow to its already majestic presence. It was an experience like no other, leaving us speechless and completely in awe by the sheer gorgeousness of it all. We also had the opportunity to do a fun hike through Stuart Island to the lighthouse where we were rewarded with impressive views that could have been plucked from a postcard. Back at camp we sipped wine, ate delicious meals prepared by our lovely guides, and created bonds through shared stories and infectious laughter. Under the star-studded sky, we found ourselves fascinated by the bioluminescence, playing like children in the shimmering waters.
The last morning of the trip was bittersweet. We had grown so close over the past few days that we didn't want it to end. But as we sat around the table, sharing stories and toasting to our incredible adventure, we knew that this trip would stay with us for a lifetime. We truly had such a wonderful time that we are even talking about a reunion trip, stay tuned.
Not only was this trip just plain fun, it was also a chance to challenge ourselves and try something new. Kayaking can be a physically demanding activity, especially if you're not used to it. But with our guide's expertise and encouragement, we all pushed ourselves and discovered what we were capable of. It was empowering to know that we could accomplish such a challenging feat.
While the activities and scenery were fabulous, the real highlight of the trip was the connection I made with the diverse group of women I was with. We shared stories around the camp table, had deep conversations about our lives, and laughed until our sides hurt. It was extraordinary to be part of a group of women from different backgrounds and ages, who were all looking for a break from their everyday lives and to connect in a deep and meaningful way.
If you're looking for an adventure that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, connected, and with memories to last a lifetime, I highly recommend an all-women's trip with REI. The kayaking experience in the San Juan Islands was an adventure that exceeded all expectations, and I couldn't have imagined a better way to bond with my mom and sister, as well as 9 other complete strangers. It's a trip that I know we'll remember forever, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have gone on it. So grab your jumpsuit and your best lady friends and experience the beauty of nature, the power of female connection, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Note 1: Please feel free to invite me on your women’s trip, I would love to go!! 🙂
Note 2: I am definitely not an affiliate of REI or Indyeva clothing...but maybe I should be, haha! Seriously though, this trip was a blast, and let me tell you, that jumpsuit is out-of-this-world amazing!
