San Juan Islands

Whenever I have guests visit, I like to include a trip to the spectacular San Juan Islands.

A two hour drive north to Anacortes and a Washington State Ferry ride west will get you to the three major islands: Lopez, Orcas and San Juan. I like to leave my car at the Anacortes dock and walk aboard.

It’s wonderful to cruise through the beautiful San Juan Islands.

Whale Watching and observing wild life are the best here. Get off the ferry at Friday Harbor; take a bus to Lime Kiln Point State Park to catch a glimpse of a pod of Orcas.

A park naturalist is on duty to help you spot the great black & white creatures as they search for salmon.

Or, arrange for a whale watching cruise at the Friday Harbor marina, next to the Ferry Terminal.

The Whale Museum is just off the main street and well worth visiting. You'll enjoy the many informative exhibits.

San Juan Island Bed & Breakfasts make a great place to overnight. There are several at Friday Harbor or stay at the Roche Harbor resort on the west side of the Island. Boaters pull into this first port from Canada. A huge outdoor sculpture garden is next to the resort.

Another option is to catch a ferry to nearby Orcas Island and stay there. It isn't necessary to have a car. You can rent a moped or take the local bus. The Village of Eastbound has lots of shops, restaurants and overnight accommodations.

For a million dollar view of the San Juan Islands, you can’t beat the top of Mt. Constitution in Moran State Park.

There is so much to see and do in this spectacular area! Try kayaking through these beautiful waters, past tree covered islands and quiet coves. Small boat rentals and fishing charters are also available

I cover the San Juan’s extensively in my award-winning travel video: Washington State's San Juan Islands

One important tip! Because some ferry trips involve traveling through international waters, bring sufficient picture ID, a passport, or other identification – just in case you need it.

Many visitors continue onto Vancouver Island to see Victoria, B.C. and enjoy a British experience.

Schedules, reservations and other information can be found at the Washington State Ferry website: www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/

When the ferry lands back in Anacortes, how about stopping for a cup of coffee in LaConner and a chance to browse the galleries and shops in this historic fishing village.

You’ll find the turn off to La Conner by the popular Farmhouse Restaurant on your way back to the I-5 Freeway. And, if you are lucky enough to be traveling in the springtime, the Skagit Valley will be a blaze with bright fields of tulips and daffodils.

MONA – the Museum of Northwest Art presents works by regional artists.

The La Conner Quilt and Textile Museum is the only Quilt Museum in Washington State. National and international exhibits are featured throughout the year.

One other suggestion. I often take a break on the way back to Seattle with a stop for a meal at the Tulalip Casino off Interstate 5 at Marysville. You can enjoy a salmon dinner at a reasonable price, plus there are lots of penny slots and a nearby Seattle Premium Outlet Center.

Don’t miss seeing the beautifully carved cedar totem poles featured in the casino’s hotel lobby!