The San Juan Islands are an archipelago located in the Salish Sea, off the northern coast of Washington state in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The archipelago consists of over 172 named islands and reefs, with around 400 islands and rocks at high tide. The most frequently visited islands with ferry service are San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw. The islands are renowned for their abundant wildlife, lush landscapes, and as one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations, especially for orcas (killer whales). Key characteristics include:
- Rich wildlife including orcas, minke and humpback whales, seals, otters, and bald eagles.
- Varied landscapes with hilly terrain, beaches, forests, and meadows.
- A temperate climate with about 247 days of sunshine annually and less rainfall than nearby Seattle due to a rain shadow effect from the Olympic Mountains.
- Popular activities include whale watching (May to October), hiking, biking (especially on Lopez Island), exploring art galleries, and visiting quaint fishing villages and towns like Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.
- Accessibility mainly from Seattle via ferry from Anacortes or the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry service.
- Historical and natural attractions like Lime Kiln Point State Park, which offers whale viewing from land, and the San Juan Islands National Monument protecting cultural and natural heritage.
Each island has its own unique appeal: San Juan Island offers charming restaurants and shops; Orcas is known for its art scene and hiking; Lopez is flat and ideal for biking; Shaw is small and suitable for day trips. The islands enjoy a relatively mild year-round climate and are a prime spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
