These common marine mammals are frequently seen just offshore. Harbor seal pups are born in June and July. If you encounter one of the beach, leave it alone. Chances are the mother is nearby. Some people expect to find sea otters in the waters surrounding the San Juan Islands, but that species resides on the Washington outer coast.
River otters live here, and are both marine and terrestrial animals.
You may see them swimming just off South Beach or in Griffin Bay, or prowling the shoreline near Jakle's Lagoon. You are apt to see them swimming low and flat in the water, not floating on their backs. Their preferred habitat is the forest-meadow margin. Here the woodland provides shade and security, while the open space provides browse. Deer are opportunistic feeders.