Located approximately an hour by ferry off the Washington mainland, the San Juan Islands make up one of the most naturally spectacular spots in the Pacific Northwest. Encompassing 172 islands and reefs, the most populous and renowned destinations within the archipelago are San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. Ferry service also extends to the rugged Shaw Island in the heart of the crystal clear waters of the San Juan Channel. Each of the principal islands provides a unique vibe and characteristic, with Orcas Island being home to Moran State Park, Lopez Island offering pastures and biking trails, and San Juan Island boasting the county seat of Friday Harbor.
People visit the San Juan Islands for good reason. The untouched charm of its many islands, along with off-the-radar boating treasures, spectacular vistas over the Salish Sea stretching into Canada, and palpable history have earned the San Juan Islands repeated recognition as a premier vacation spot. Having already made Travel + Leisure’s top ten for two consecutive years, in 2026 the San Juan Islands were named among the top five islands in the U.S. USA Today also ranked the San Juan Islands as one of the top ten travel destinations in 2024, as well as Washington’s top attraction.
Culture and history run deep through the San Juan Islands. This ancestral land of the Coast Salish people thoughtfully showcases cultural legacy, as seen in the towering House Posts in Friday Harbor meant to welcome others. While Spanish explorers of the late 18th century lend the islands their unique names, late 19th century buildings reflect the islands’ British and American heritage. History aficionados will enjoy discovering the 18 National Historic Registry sites throughout the islands.
The San Juan Islands are also one of the best spots in the world to see orcas, with resident and transient pods moving through the surrounding waters. The view near the 1919 lighthouse in Lime Kiln Point State Park on the western side of San Juan Island is known to be one of the best places for orca sightings from land.
With a temperate climate year-round, ranging from high 70s in the summer to 40s in the winter, visitors can bike quiet country roads, hike up to the Mount Constitution Tower on Orcas Island for wide island vistas, or wander Friday Harbor's shops and cafes. Kayaking through calm coves, visiting lavender farms, alpaca ranches, and local oyster spots round out the uniquely San Juan Islands experience.
Book your San Juan Islands stay with Casago Avari and prepare to enjoy the peace, environment, and inspirational beauty of the San Juans.
