San Juan Islands – Washington's Little-Known Treasure
The San Juan Islands, Washington are a little-known treasure in the Pacific Northwest. This island paradise is blessed with spectacular natural beauty and fantastic weather. It inspires and relaxes visitors seeking a refreshing and memorable vacation.
Lopez, Orcas, San Juan and Shaw Island have been attracting explorers and visitors for centuries. Located in the Puget Sound, a part of the state of Washington, the islands are just a ferry ride from Seattle. Ferries also connect to Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia.
More about the Islands
There are more than 700 islands and reefs in the San Juan Archipelago, which includes the Gulf Islands of British Columbia. In San Juan County, there are more than 400 miles of rock and sandy shoreline in the 176 islands encompassed by the county. This is more than any other county in the nation. The islands range from flat farmland to small mountains, which make a perfect setting for many fun and relaxing activities.
There are a little more than 15,000 residents living on the islands. Their occupations are varied from actors, farmers, fishermen, loggers, alpaca farmers, artists, writers, and shopkeepers. Most of the commerce is centered in Lopez Village on Lopez Island, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, and Eastsound on Orcas Island.
To learn more about the islands and their local history, there are museums on each of the islands. The Whale Museum at Friday Harbor offers exhibits and teaches visitors about the marine life and ecosystem of the area. Visit the San Juan Historical Museum to learn about the native history. The Hudson Bay Company, the Coast Salish Tribes, and the Pig War all played a part in the development of the islands.
The San Juan Islands are protected from harsh ocean weather by three mountain ranges on the Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island. They get only about half the rainfall of Seattle and enjoy an average of 250 days of sunshine a year. The average summer temperatures are in the mid 70s and in the winter, in the 30s and 40s. Winter is mild and spring comes early.
Traveling around the Islands
The San Juan Islands are easy to get to on the Washington State Ferry (www.sanjuanweb.com/Ferry ). No reservations are required, but it does run on a seasonal schedule. The busiest time is June through August so it is advised to arrive early. Fares are discounted 10% if you arrive Sunday through Tuesday.
Each island has transportation available for those who do not bring their own car. Friday Harbor on San Juan Island offers seasonal rentals for shuttles, mopeds or scootcars from May through September. You can also take a taxi, or rent a car or bicycle. Orcas Island has the same possibilities and a shuttle that operates from May through September. Bike rentals are available on Lopez Island. Enjoy riding the inter-island ferry to visit all the islands. There is no charge for walk-ons and bicycles so you can enjoy a free cruise around the islands.
Whale Watching
There are many recreational activities to enjoy on the San Juan Islands, and one of the most popular is whale watching (www.orcawhalewatch.com ). The islands are home to three pods of orcas during the peak season from May to September. You can see as many as 90 whales at once during this time. You can also see whales all year round in few numbers.
There are boat tours of all sizes to accommodate visitors wishing to see the whales in their home waters. For the adventurous tourists, the small boats are fun. The mid-size boats offer more flexible schedules, and the larger boats are good for children and people who are inexperienced with boats. At the state park, the whales typically pass by once or twice during the day in season.
Kayaks, Bikes and Birds
One of the best and most enjoyable ways to see the wildlife is from a kayak (www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/sanjuan/activities/kayaking.htm ). You can bring your own or rent one to make a trip around the islands. There are guided tours to see whales and other wildlife. You can take a short trip or a longer one for up to five days in the outdoors.
The San Juan Islands are a wonderful place to go bicycling. They are easy to navigate and there is plenty to see. There are tours that combine bicycling and kayaking, and some even provide a stay overnight. This is also a great place for bird watching, with a high concentration of seabirds. See the birds that come for migration by the thousands, including trumpeter swans, ducks, and geese. Also the raptors populate here where you will see Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and Red-Tailed Hawks.
There are several state parks to enjoy on the islands. With their clear air, inspiring views and scenery, the parks are relaxing and enjoyable. Lime Kiln Point State Park/Whale Watch Park and Lighthouse is the only state park dedicated to whale watching. Moran State Park and Spencer Spit State Park along with several county parks provide many sites for recreation. Walk along the beach, hike in the forests, and go camping to enjoy these incredible surroundings. See the wildlife, deer, raccoons, rabbits, foxes, seals, porpoises and whales while you enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
More Activities and Lodging
Golfing and scuba diving are sports that many enjoy on the islands. San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez Islands all have challenging 9-hole golf courses that can be played as 18. The beauty of the water and marine life bring scuba enthusiasts back time after time. In July, the Lavender Harvest Festival is held, and in August there's the San Juan County Fair.
Whatever your style is, you will find just the right accommodations on the San Juan Islands. There are inns, resorts, cottages, B&Bs, motels, and campgrounds. You can decide the level of luxury or comfort that you want and make your plans.
The Anchorage Inn Bed and Breakfast is on a lovely cove on Orcas Island where you can observe the water and wildlife. Lakedale Resort is located on 80 acres on San Juan Island with beautiful parklands and stocked lakes. Lopez Farm Cottages and Tent Camping on Lopez Island offer exotic Scandinavian cottages with fireplace, kitchen, and a jacuzzi. There is also a secluded campground with showers.
The San Juan Islands have something to offer for everyone. There is an abundance of activities with the fabulous water and many other things to enjoy.