San Juan Islands Travel Information
Low tide in the San Juan Islands leaves 786 islands dry; few of that
number are named and fewer still inhabited. San Juan Island, Orcas
Island, and Lopez Island have the largest year-round populations and
can be reached by ferry. Whales spouting offshore, orca-sightings and
beautiful seascapes keep the area flush with visitors during the
summer. The San Juan Islands offer protected inlets, islets and
regular breezes, making the area popular with sailors and sea-kayakers
alike. Rent kayaks to do some exploring solo, or take a guided
tour to maximize your wildlife viewing and paddling security. If you
didn't make the San Juans under your own sail, look into a
crewed-charter trip around the islands. For just a few hours of
maritime dabbling, join a whale-watching trip or simply enjoy the
ferry ride out -- Washington's ferry system is their number one
tourist attraction. Canvas the islands on bike or moped, though be
forewarned that the bigger islands also have busier roads. Rent your
two-wheeled vehicle once you get to the islands if you didn't bring
one across on the ferry. San Juan Island is the largest of the
populated big three. The ferry docks in Friday Harbor, a pleasant
city to wander leisurely. Anglers can book charter fishing trips out
of the marina while divers will find that these waters offer some of
the best cold-water diving in the world. Get a feel for the cold water
before taking the plunge with a multi-day kayaking trip. Orcas
Island is home to Mt Constitution, the high spot in the islands.
Workout your legs peddling to the top, then cool down with a stop at
Cascade Falls. Finish off the day with a dose of history at the Orcas
Island Historical Museum. Pitch a tent in Moran State Park once you've
exhausted the limits of island roads and daylight attractions. Grab
a bike and join the throng of happy peddlers riding the circuit around
Lopez Island. A good 30-minute ride, this won't do much to prepare
you for the Tour de France but you will be rewarded with pleasant
countryside scenery and friendly locals. Bring your tent along if
you're hankering for a night under the stars. Like the other islands,
the campsites on Lopez Island fill up quickly in summer, so stake your
reservation in advance. The San Juan Islands are northwest of
Seattle, an hour by ferry from Anacortes.
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