San Juan Islands, WA

Naturally Wonderful

Spread throughout the in calm waters of the Puget Sound are the beautiful San Juan Islands. These forested islands are almost completely rural with just a few small towns spread throughout. Guests visiting the San Juan Islands come to get away from the stress of big city. The calm water, clean air and relaxing vibe of the Islands keep guests coming back. Of the 400 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands archipelago, only 170 of them are large enough to be name and just four are accessible by ferry. The San Juan Islands are an ecologically diverse area with endless evergreen trees adorning the landscape and waters that are teeming with sea life. Having the largest population of bald eagles in the US and pods of orcas calling it home, a visit to the San Juan Islands can make Sea World seem like child’s play. The four main islands in the group are those with ferry service to the mainland and as such, are home to most of the homes and folks residing there. A visit to the San Juan Islands can be anything from days watching wildlife to some moments in the lovely small town.

San Juan Island, the most populous in the chain, is the home of Friday Harbor and is the commercial, social and cultural center of the region. Its streets are lined with local seafood shops, unique galleries and an eclectic array of shops. As an artist enclave, Friday Harbor is filled artists and community theatres that feature locally produced shows throughout the year. From Friday Harbor, the center for wildlife viewing in the San Juan Islands, you can set off on a whale watching tour, go birding with a seasoned expert or feed the local harbor seals. One unique a way to experience the islands is on a sea-plane tour. Flights use the harbor as it’s runway and take guests over the chain for an experience and point of view that can’t be had any other way. Guests accommodations on the San Juan Islands have a local focus and include quint B&B’s, charming inns and glamping. At West Beach Resort Camping, the line is blurred between a rustic camp site and a luxury hotel. The Deluxe Tent Cabins include comforts such as a queen bed, fine linens, a dining area and wonderful patio. And on-site are boat and kayak rentals, Jacuzzis, Wi-Fi and nightly beachside bonfire.