watching whales - View this location on map  'pack a picnic, keep binoculars handy, be patient. that's the three-pronged strategy for enjoying your time at lime kiln point state park (360-378-2044). the 36-acre park has douglas fir, arbutus and even cactuses along its forest trails. but from late spring to early fall, it's the world's best place to see orca whales from land. park your car in the lot, then hike the lighthouse trail to the rocky outcrop in the shadow of the lime kiln point lighthouse. set up your picnic on the rocks and watch for the shiny black and white orcas, if you're lucky, they'll come close enough that they can also see you. if you miss a pod on parade, you're still likely to see seals and eagles. the lighthouse, built in 1919, is now a whale behavior research center as well. in summer, park staff members are often available to provide information on the whales and also offer evening tours of the lighthouse; day tours can be arranged.'' New York Times 1567 westside road, Friday harbor, WA Active, Kids |