Scenic view of a coastline with a grassy hill, a tree, and distant mountains across a calm blue sea under a clear sky.

Westside Preserve

Unparalleled coastal views and one of the best land-based whale-watching spots

Green whale tail icon above waves
Green binoculars icon on a white background.
Flower illustration with three petals on a white background.

Westside Preserve offers breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains, making it one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas on San Juan Island. The preserve is known for its rugged coastline, windswept grasslands, and rocky bluffs, where visitors can often spot orcas, seals, porpoises, and bald eagles. Spring and summer bring colorful wildflowers, including coastal gumweed, wild iris, and native grasses, which add to the area’s natural beauty.

Though the preserve itself does not have an extensive trail network, it connects to several nearby coastal trails, including the Goldenback Trail, Limekiln Preserve Trails, and Deadman Bay Trail, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the island’s iconic west side.

Goldenback Trail is a short but rewarding hike that winds through grasslands and rocky outcrops, offering stunning views of the Salish Sea. Named after the goldenback fern, which thrives in the area’s dry, coastal conditions, this trail provides a peaceful walk along the bluffs, with frequent sightings of marine wildlife and soaring raptors.

Trail Details

How to Get There: Access via West Side Road; limited roadside parking available

Distance: Short coastal walks; nearby trails offer longer hiking options

Difficulty: Easy to moderate; mostly gentle terrain with some uneven sections along the bluffs

Family-Friendly: Yes, ideal for wildlife viewing and scenic walks and dogs are allowed on leash

Facilities: No restrooms; facilities available at nearby Lime Kiln Point State Park

Accessibility: Uneven terrain; trails may be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs

Features: Coastal bluffs, panoramic ocean views, seasonal wildflowers, premier whale-watching, and connections to nearby trails

Narrow dirt path between two evergreen trees with pine cones, surrounded by rocks and grass in a forest setting.
Sunset over the ocean with a clear sky, tree silhouettes, and mountains in the distance.
Scenic coastal view of a calm sea under a clear blue sky, with a grassy cliff in the foreground and a tree-covered shoreline in the distance.