Not to be confused with San Juan, Puerto Rico, the San Juan Islands are a dreamy archipelago situated in northwestern Washington. While the region actually consists of 170 different islands, three main destinations take the cake as far as travel and tourism are concerned — San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island.
Want to learn more about this fabulous domestic island escape? We spoke with Amy Nesler, stewardship and communications manager for the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau to help gain a better understanding of how to get there, what to do and what advisors need to know.
Getting There
“There are many ways to get to the San Juan Islands, and each option is a unique and beautiful journey,” said Nesler. However, due to their secluded nature, having a solid game plan is the key to a successful commute from the mainland. “The shorter your stay in the islands the more important it is to plan ahead.”
Are travelers visiting from out of state? Nesler named Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Bellingham International Airport (BLI) as good starting points from Washington state. Alternatively, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is an ideal choice for those traveling through Canada. “From there, you can drive to Anacortes, WA, and board a Washington State Ferry that will take you to the San Juan Islands,” said Nesler.
Of course, this is just one option for potential travelers. For more information on the many ways to get to the San Juan Islands — airlines and charters, passenger ferries and water taxis, etc. — and the different modes of transportation on the islands once travelers get there, click here.
Things to Do
“Every island offers you an abundance of choices — luckily, you can’t go wrong when deciding what to do in the San Juans!” said Nesler.
San Juan Island
Famous for its friendly alpacas and sprawling lavender fields, San Juan Island is a stunning seaside escape that’s perfect for nature lovers, museum buffs and foodies alike. Visitors will love exploring the Port of Friday Harbor where they can rent a kayak, hop aboard a whale-watching boat and discover exciting attractions alongside popular bars and restaurants. “I live on San Juan Island and enjoy spending time in our parks and beaches watching for wildlife, particularly whales,” said Nesler.
Inland, visitors can travel the Scenic Byway where they’ll be treated to a different side of San Juan Island as they drive past miles of rolling farmland and lush green forests. Popular stops along the route include American Camp and English Camp — two historical sites associated with San Juan Island National Historic Park — and Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, one of the best places for orca spotting and shoreline hikes. Other attractions not to be missed along the Scenic Byway include Pelindaba Lavender Farm, Westcott Bay Shellfish Company and Roche Harbor.
Orcas Island
Lovingly referred to by locals as “the gem of the San Juans,” Orcas Island is a horseshoe-shaped island that charms and delights with its rugged shorelines, inviting forests and artsy vibe. Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands at 57 square miles and is a well-known escape among outdoor enthusiasts who flock to the destination to explore its rolling hills and observe its vast wildlife.
One of the best places to enjoy Orcas Island’s natural splendor is Moran State Park, a 5,252-acre stretch of land with more than 30 miles of hiking trails to discover. While there, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including kayaking, whale-watching, hiking, biking, horseback riding, sailing and more. In addition to Orcas Island’s incredible natural offerings, travelers won’t want to miss a visit to Olga, a tiny town home to Orcas Island Artworks, an artist co-op featuring pottery, jewelry, paintings and more from over 50 local artists. Other notable stops on the island include Doe Bay and Deer Harbor for luxury at Doe Bay Resort & Retreat and more maritime fun, respectively.
Lopez Island
Nicknamed “the Friendly Isle,” Lopez Island is known for its neighborly feel. Life moves a little slower in this relaxed destination, and, with just 2,500 residents, travelers shouldn’t be surprised if locals acknowledge them with a friendly wave when driving or walking by. One of the most popular spots on the island is Lopez Village, a small, rustic village set alongside Fisherman Bay that features a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops and galleries. And for visitors looking to make Lopez Island their home base, Lopez Village is also the place where they’ll find a fully-stocked grocery store, pharmacy and more.
With no stoplights, public transportation or rental cars, Lopez Island is the perfect vacation spot for travelers looking to go off the grid, replacing the hustle and bustle of everyday life with peaceful activities and outdoor pursuits. It’s that same secluded nature that is to thank for the island’s eclectic group of residents, many of which are farmers, artists, craftspeople, musicians, fishermen and more. “On Lopez, I like to go by the self-serve farm stands and pick up some goodies, like the fresh chevre from Sunnyfield Farm,” said Nesler.
What Advisors Should Know
“Travel advisors should be aware of, and semi-familiar with, the three main ways to get to the Islands: Washington State Ferries, small airplanes/seaplanes and chartering a boat,” said Nesler. “They should also know some of the differences between the three main islands — Lopez Island, Orcas Island and San Juan Island — and why someone might choose to visit one over another.”
For more information about each island and the best ways to get there, advisors can familiarize themselves with the San Jan Islands Visitors Bureau website.
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