11 Dec San Juan Islands Guide
The Pacific Northwest has some of the most incredible scenery in the country. And one of the best places to soak up this beauty is on the San Juan Islands. This group of islands is between Washington and Vancouver Island, British Columbia. There are more than 170 islands that make up the San Juan Islands archipelago. The Washington State Ferry provides service from Anacortes to the four largest islands; Orcas, San Juan, Lopez, and Shaw. You can also get to the islands by chartered flight or private boat or plane. There are endless activities on the islands, from camping and hiking to shopping and dining. The sparkling waters around the islands are perfect for boating, kayaking, and whale watching. The residents of the San Juans are diverse: young families, retirees, permanent residents, and vacation home owners. Those that choose to live on the islands do so for the slower pace of life, close-knit communities, and natural surroundings. Let’s explore the largest islands:
Orcas Island
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands. The ferry ride from Anacortes takes about an hour and a half. The ferry terminal on Orcas Island is in the hamlet of Orcas.
About 15 miles from the ferry terminal is the historic village of Eastsound. This is the largest population center on Orcas Island. It’s walkable with galleries, boutiques, and the island’s grocery stores. Eastsound is home to the island’s schools. Public schools are part of the Orcas Island School District. Private schools are available as well. The Orcas Family Health Center is also in Eastsound. This village has multiple dining options, including the acclaimed Hogstone’s Wood Oven. There are other hamlets on the island, such as Olga, which is home to an art collective and café.
There are incredible hiking opportunities all across the island. Moran State Park has over 30 miles of trails, including ones on Mount Constitution. Some of the trails can be used for mountain biking as well. Cascade Lake in the state park is perfect for summertime swimming.
San Juan Island
San Juan Island is home to the largest populated center in the islands, Friday Harbor. The ferry from Anacortes lands here. From Friday Harbor you can also catch an inter-island ferry to Lopez, Shaw, and Orcas Islands. Shopping, dining, and other services are within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
Students here can attend one of the San Juan Island School District schools. There are also private schools like Spring Street International School and Stillpoint School.
Whale-watching is a favorite San Juan Island activity. Lime Kiln Point State Park is one of the best places on earth to spot these animals. San Juan Island National Historical Park is great for exploring the island’s history and hiking. Hiking and mountain biking can also be done at the resort village of Roche Harbor.
Lopez Island
Lopez is the 3rd largest of the San Juan Islands. It is a 30-minute ferry ride from Anacortes and is the first stop on the route to the San Juan islands. About four miles from the ferry terminal is Lopez Village. This village has stores, museums, and other services. Public schools here are part of the Lopez Island School District. The Lopez Island Academy is another school option on the island.
Lopez is flatter than other nearby islands. The rolling landscape makes it ideal for biking around the island. The hiking is less intense here as well. The easy hike at Shark Reef Sanctuary rewards you with beautiful views and possible seal sightings.
This level land is also ideal for farming. Restaurants such as Ursa Minor use local ingredients. Residents and visitors can also enjoy locally produced wine at Lopez Island Vineyards.
Hopefully reading this has helped you understand life on the San Juans a little more. There is a wide range of real estate on the islands, from village condos to waterfront estates. Whether you are looking to buy a vacation home or to escape city life permanently, we can help you find your dream island home. Contact us today!
Photo by Ryan Parker on Unsplash