San Juan Islands

An archipelago of 172 islands between Washington and Vancouver BC, featuring charming towns like Friday Harbor and Eastsound, whale watching, and rustic island charm. Accessible by ferry from Anacortes, they offer a peaceful escape with scenic beauty and wildlife viewing.

Things to do

• Whale Watching Tours — Take a guided boat tour from Friday Harbor to spot orca whales, humpbacks, and sea lions in the waters surrounding the islands, especially reliable June through September.
• San Juan Island National Historical Park — Visit this Civil War-era military encampment on San Juan Island where American and British forces famously faced off peacefully in 1859 during the Pig War.
• Eastsound Village Stroll — Wander the charming waterfront shops, galleries, and restaurants in Eastsound on Orcas Island, the islands' most picturesque downtown.
• Moran State Park Hiking — Hike to the summit of Mount Constitution on Orcas Island for panoramic views of the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and the Cascades.
• Sea Kayaking — Paddle through kelp forests and sheltered bays to encounter seals, sea otters, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.
• Friday Harbor Labs Exploration — Tour the University of Washington's marine research station to learn about local marine biology and conservation efforts.

Food to try

• Fresh Dungeness Crab — Savor locally-caught Dungeness crab prepared simply with butter and lemon at waterfront restaurants, especially in season from winter through spring.
• San Juan Island Mussels — Enjoy steamed mussels harvested from local waters, typically served with white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs at island seafood establishments.
• Friday Harbor Fish & Chips — Try the islands' iconic fish and chips using local halibut or rockfish, best enjoyed with views of the harbor from casual waterfront spots.
• Farm-to-Table Island Cuisine — Dine on seasonal menus featuring local produce, lamb, and seafood at upscale restaurants reflecting the islands' agricultural and maritime heritage.
• Olga Artisan Foods — Sample locally-made preserves, cheeses, and baked goods from small producers concentrated around Olga on Orcas Island and Friday Harbor markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Ferry Etiquette and Planning — Arrive early for ferry departures as summer sailings from Anacortes fill quickly, and embrace the slow island pace—schedules are infrequent and weather-dependent.
• Respect Marine Wildlife Zones — Follow strict whale-watching distance guidelines (100 yards minimum) and stay aware of marine sanctuary restrictions to protect orcas and other marine mammals.
• Island Self-Reliance — Stock up on supplies in Friday Harbor or Eastsound as smaller island stores have limited inventory and higher prices due to shipping costs.
• Quiet Hours and Island Peace — Respect the islands' peaceful character by keeping noise levels low after dark and understanding that this is a working community, not just a tourist destination.