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San Juans - Washington
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Just south of the Canadian border in Washington State, the San Juan Islands group of islands offers a sheltered body of water and safe harbours with a wide range of amenities -- resorts, marinas, shopping, craft markets, museums, art galleries, museums and dozens of ocean-view restaurants.
This beautiful archipelago, including Orcas Island, San Juan Island, Lopez Island, Whidbey Island and the Gateway Communities, has welcomed visitors for hundreds of years. The San Juan Islands were recently named one of the top island destinations in the Continental U.S. and Canada by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Close to 450 of the islands are large enough to be named, but most of the action happens in Lopez Village on Lopez Island, Eastsound on Orcas Island and Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.
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Port Townsend
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Port Townsend
One of the Gateway Communities on the mainland, Port Townsend is a common stop for San Juan Islands yacht charters as it is a pleasant, safe harbour offering many services.
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Lopez Island
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Sunset over Lopez Island
Lopez Island, which calls itself the jewel of the San Juans, offers kayaking, cycling, whale watching, hiking, and fishing. The landscape blends thick woods with pastoral farmland, shimmering vistas with rolling pastures, and is home to many artists, musicians, farmers, fisher folk and nature-lovers. Visit Lopez Village, the hub of the island and home to several art galleries, restaurants and shops. Browse through boutiques, check out some of the local art at the Chimera Gallery or grab a treat at Holly B’s Bakery. Explore the beaches and trails of both State and County parks and be sure to visit the weekend Farmer’s Market where you can pick up fresh produce, flowers and crafts.
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Orcas Island
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Orcas Island / Deer Harbor
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands. Boasting the most diverse landscape, Orcas offers the best recreational opportunities in the San Juans. Moran State Park, one of Washington's largest, is a mecca for hikers, bikers, campers and runners, with over 30 miles of trails spread amongst lakes and waterfalls. For a real adventure and best view in the San Juans, climb to the 2,409-foot summit of Mt. Constitution and experience the breathtaking panoramic view. If it's culture or commerce you're after, head to Eastsound, bustling with a variety of fine restaurants, galleries, shops, hotels and more. For peace and quiet, pedal or drive the islands’ rural roads where you're sure to stumble across one of the many charming villages that offer such a unique slice of Orcas Island life.
Deer Harbor is hidden at the west end of Orcas Island. This sleepy harbor village boasts some of the best water views anywhere. From misty morning fogs and breathtaking sunsets to winding counrty roads and golden fields, Deer Harbor is definitely worth a visit on your next island excursion.
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San Juan Island
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Roche Harbor Village
San Juan Island, the site of a historical confrontation between the British and Americans in 1859, offers boaters many opportunities to relax, shop, wander and enjoy island life. Friday Harbor, a popular destination on the east side of the island, is a quaint town with parks, restaurants, shops, galleries and lodging facilities. To the north, scenic and historic Roche Harbor Village has beautiful Victorian gardens and heritage buildings, as well as a marina, lodging, grocery store, restaurants, shopping and activities.
Friday Harbor is a picturesque seaport town located on beautiful San Juan Island and has long been recognized as one of the premier vacation destinations in Washington. With a diverse topography ranging from pebbly beaches to mountain meadows and lush valleys, it is truly one of nature's finest playgrounds. Shop the boutiques and specialty stores.There are also parks and museums to be seen, such as San Juan Historic Park, which celebrates the island’s past and was the site of the “Pig War” that determined the island’s ownership.
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