The Best Guide to Visiting the San Juan Islands

Grab your sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen and let’s board to San Juan Islands! Okay so you may want to grab a rain jacket as well, just in case. Have you always wanted to plan a trip to these beautiful, coastal islands? Or are you just curious about them? In this blog post, I will teach you all you need to know about the islands with information on how to get there, what to do, what islands to visit, where to stay, and more!

My husband and I completed a month long road trip from Montana to Tennessee. San Juan Islands were the first stop after crossing back into America from Canada! If you are planning for a road trip, definitely add San Juans to your itinerary!

This post may contain affiliate links of products I use and love. You can read my full disclosure here.

What are the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are a stunning archipelago located in the northwest corner of Washington State, nestled between the mainland and Vancouver Island, Canada. Comprised of over 170 islands, only a handful are accessible to visitors, with the most popular being San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island.

Renowned for their picturesque landscapes, the islands offer a mix of rugged coastlines, lush forests, and tranquil beaches. They are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot orcas, seals, bald eagles, and more. Accessible by ferry, seaplane, or private boat, the San Juan Islands are a top destination for outdoor adventures, including kayaking, hiking, biking, and whale watching, as well as for savoring local seafood and the region’s relaxed, small-town charm.

What is the History of the San Juan Islands

The history of the San Juan Islands is rich and multifaceted, shaped by the Indigenous peoples who originally inhabited the region, European explorers, and later settlers. For thousands of years, Coast Salish tribes, including the Lummi, Samish, and Saanich peoples, lived on the islands, relying on the abundant marine life and natural resources for their sustenance and cultural practices. European contact began in the late 18th century, with Spanish and British explorers mapping the area.

The islands became the center of a territorial dispute between the United States and Great Britain in the mid-19th century, culminating in the famous Pig War of 1859—a bloodless standoff triggered by the shooting of a British pig by an American settler. This conflict lasted until 1872, when arbitration by Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany awarded the islands to the United States. Today, the islands preserve this complex history through landmarks like English Camp and American Camp, part of the San Juan Island National Historical Park.

What to Pack for San Juan Islands

1. Hiking Shoes: Wearing appropriate shoes is imperative to having a good experience while hiking. These are my favorite hiking boots that I have owned for over 6 years- and they have had a lot of wear and tear from many hiking trips.
2. Jacket: Since you will be traveling in a rainforest zone, you will want to make sure you pack layers to prepare for changes in weather.
3. Camera: With all the beauty you will be seeing, you will want to bring your camera! I have recently purchased this camera and I LOVE it. I am still learning how to use it, but it is a fun hobby to get in to with so much beauty surrounding you!
4. Water Bottle: Whether you are biking, hiking, or driving the scenic route, you will want to make sure to stay hydrated!
5. Portable Phone Charger: You will be using your phone a lot to take pictures, navigate, and send many texts to your family/ friends telling them how much of a great time you are having 😉 Make sure you have these battery packs so your phone does not die!
6. Hydration Backpack: There will be hikes you will want to take part in while you are visiting here. So make sure you are prepared with this hydration pack that is also a backpack!
7. Tent: This will definitely depend on how you choose to lodge for your trip. In case you are planning to tent camp, you will need to make sure you have your camping necessities. This is the exact tent we use. It is quick, easy, and literally takes 2- seconds to pop up!
8. Sleeping Bag: Whether you are car camping or tent camping, you will want to bring your sleeping bag! We car camped here in mid- September and this sleeping bag kept us nice and toasty!
9. Sleeping Mat: This is the best sleeping mat on the market! No electric pump required, just your foot! AND it rolls/ stores very compact saving room with packing.
10. Camping Equipment: I may be biased, but I think everyone should camp while in WLNP to experience the pure beauty of the Lord’s creation of this park. Need to know what equipment you need? Here’s your resource of products!

When to Visit the San Juan Islands

Although there is never a wrong time to go, there are times that are better than others!

When we visited, it was mid October. The weather was not warm but not unbearably cold either. Even though it was fall, there were no fall colors on the island. It was wet and rainy almost the entire time- but this was to be expected given it is off the coast of Washington. Because this was “off season”, there were not a lot of people on the island, which can be a perk! But because of this, this can impact the ferry system- see below for more information on this. Also, since we were visiting in October, there was a slight chance we would get to see whales. Unfortunately, we did not get to experience this!

So, with all that being said, I believe the best time to visit the San Juan Islands would be between May and September when the weather will be warm and you have a higher chance of seeing whales!

How to Get to the San Juan Islands

Once you have made your way to the state of Washington, now is the time to set to sea to step foot on the islands! You can choose between the four islands, or the choice to see all of them.

The most common way is to take a Washington State Ferry from Anacortes, located about 1.5 hours north of Seattle. Ferries serve the main islands—San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw—and offer a breathtaking ride through the Puget Sound. Advance reservations for vehicles are recommended, especially during peak seasons. If you’re traveling light, you can also board as a walk-on passenger or bring a bicycle.

Click here for ferry reservations!

If you are traveling via ferry, your ticket is round trip. No worries about booking a ticket back to the main land!

Also, you have access to all the islands with one ticket. When you purchase a ferry ticket to the San Juan Islands through the Washington State Ferry system, your ticket grants access to all the main islands—San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw—without additional charges for inter-island travel. This is because you only pay for the outbound trip from Anacortes to the islands; once you are on the islands, inter-island ferry routes are free for both passengers and vehicles.

I will say that you need to be flexible with this unfortunately. When we visited the San Juan Islands, we planned to start at San Juan and make our way to Orcas then to Lopez. When we were ready to leave San Juan to go to Orcas, they informed us that they are not taking a ferry to Orcas that day due to low number of passengers. We did not have the time to wait until the next day, so we decided to take the ferry back to the main land.

For a faster option, you can take a seaplane from Seattle with companies like Kenmore Air, which provides stunning aerial views of the islands. Another option is a private boat or water taxi service, often available from nearby coastal towns.

Where to Stay on the San Juan Island

Like stated above, we were only able to visit one of the San Juan islands on our trip. So, we only needed to worry about lodging for one night on the main San Juan Island. There are a few options to meet your lodging needs on the San Juan Island!

Camping on San Juan Island

We love to car camp! If there is a campground and a spot open, we are there. Thankfully we were able to find a spot at San Juan County Park. We drove around, picked out the spot we wanted, and payed the employee on staff that day. We were able to find a spot that overlooks the ocean- waking up to the coastal views will never get old!

The campground has bathrooms and a wash station for dishes. No showers, however.

Hotels on San Juan Island

There are many options to choose from on San Juan for hotel lodging. You can choose from ocean front or more secluded in the fields of the island. Click here for an overview of what is available!

Which San Juan Island Should I Visit

Like stated before, there are many different islands, but there are four most popular islands: San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw. Each one is beautiful and would be worth the time to visit! Let’s break down each of the islands so you can decide which one to visit or if you want to visit all.

Remember, when you book a ferry ride to one of the islands, you will have access to the remainder of the islands! Pay once and you have access to all the major islands. So with this being said, you have access to all the islands, but you need to know which one to start with. AND just in case you do not have time to visit all the islands, here is a breakdown of each of the islands and what they offer!

What to do on San Juan Island

San Juan Island is the largest and most populous of the San Juan Islands, known for its rich history, vibrant small-town charm, and incredible natural beauty. The island’s main hub, Friday Harbor, is a picturesque seaside town offering quaint shops, art galleries, local restaurants, and a lively marina. With rolling farmland, serene beaches, and a welcoming community, San Juan Island offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.

This is the first and only island we visited (see above for why the only one). We landed on the island around noon and immediately headed out for some adventure! Here’s a list of what to do on San Juan Island:

1. Friday Harbor
   • You will love this adorable, coastal strip that has so much to explore! Right on the harbor, you can grab a bite to eat while viewing gorgeous views of the ocean and boats coming in. While here, stroll the streets to explore local shops, galleries, and the fascinating Whale Museum.

1. Lime Kiln Point State Park
   • This state park is also known as the “Whale Watch Park” due to it being one of the best places in the world to spot orcas from shore! The best time to spot whales around San Juan Island is from May through September, when orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, and gray whales are most active in the waters surrounding the island. Orcas, in particular, are often seen during the summer months, as they follow salmon runs through the Salish Sea. Early mornings and evenings are typically the best times for sightings, as the water is calmer and marine life is more active. For a closer look, guided whale-watching tours by boat or kayak offer an unforgettable experience.

1. American and English Camp
   • History lovers can explore the remnants of the Pig War at American Camp and English Camp, which offer hiking trails and sweeping views of the island.
   • The English and American Camps on San Juan Island are two historic sites that preserve the legacy of the Pig War, a boundary dispute between the United States and Great Britain in the mid-19th century. The camps were established during the peaceful joint military occupation of the island from 1859 to 1872, while the two nations awaited arbitration to determine ownership of the San Juan Islands.
   • American Camp, located on the island’s southern end, served as the base for U.S. soldiers. Today, it features historic structures, scenic hiking trails, and sweeping views of the surrounding grasslands and shoreline. Visitors can explore the officers’ quarters, a reconstructed blockhouse, and the site of the camp’s parade ground.
   • English Camp, on the island’s northwest side, housed British troops. Its well-preserved landscape includes a formal garden, barracks, and a historic blockhouse, all set against the backdrop of Garrison Bay. The camp also features wooded hiking trails and access to Mount Young, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the island.
   • Both sites are part of the San Juan Island National Historical Park and provide insight into the island’s history while offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and learning about the peaceful resolution of international conflicts.

1. Pelindaba Lavender Farm
   • Head out to this farm to experience the beauty of farm grown lavender. Take a peaceful stroll through the vibrant fields of lavender while embracing the beautiful aroma of lavender. This is also a perfect photo op!
   • Unfortunately this was closed for the season when we visited- so plan accordingly to when you are visiting!
2. San Juan County Park
   • Stop by the county park for more opportunities for wildlife viewing! You can also kayak along the island’s rugged coastline for a chance to see seals, porpoises, and bald eagles up close.
   • This is where we camped for the night! Our campsite offered front row seats to the beautiful coast to wake up to!

What to do on Orcas Island:

Orcas Island, often called the “gem of the San Juan Islands,” is the largest of the archipelago and renowned for its diverse landscapes, artistic spirit, and outdoor recreation. The island features a mix of dense forests, serene lakes, rocky shorelines, and lush farmland. Whether kayaking through quiet coves, hiking to stunning vistas, or indulging in farm-to-table cuisine, Orcas Island is a destination that blends natural beauty with creative energy.

Here’s what to do on Orcas Island!

1. Moran State Park
   • This is the island’s crow jewel offering miles of hiking trails, freshwater lakes, stunning views, and wildlife viewing!

1. Mount Constitution
   • While in the Moran State Park, drive or hike to the top of Mount Constitution. This is the highest point in the San Juan Islands. Once at the top, enjoy the panoramic views of the islands, Vancouver Island, and the Cascade Mountains!
2. Cascade Lake
   • Also while you are visiting Moran State Park, visit this freshwater lake. Take time to swim, kayak, or relax by the water. There are trails around the lake that are great for quick walks and picnics.
3. Eastbound Village
   • This is the main village on the island. It is a charming town with local shops, cafes, and galleries to explore.
   • While in the village, stop by the Orcas Island Historical Museum to learn more about the island’s history and more interesting facts!
   • If you are there in summer and fall, you won’t want to miss the farmer’s market! Check out the local produce, crafts, and food.
4. Whale Watching
   • Orcas Island is also known for its whale watching tours, offering a chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and other marine wildlife.
   • You can also experience this up close via kayaking! Explore the coastline by kayak with a guided tour or by renting your own kayak.

What to do on Lopez Island:

Lopez Island, often called the “friendly isle,” is the most relaxed and approachable of the main San Juan Islands, known for its welcoming locals, rolling pastoral landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often come to Lopez Island to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoying its slower pace, breathtaking sunsets, and a strong sense of community that makes everyone feel at home.

Here’s a list of things to do on Lopez Island!

1. Take a Bike Ride
   • Enjoy the island’s gentle terrain and quiet roads, perfect for biking. Many visitors bring or rent bikes to explore the scenic countryside and coastal views.
2. Spencer Spit State Park
   • This waterfront park features hiking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for kayaking and beachcombing along the spit.
3. Shark Reef Sanctuary
   • Walk the short trail to Shark Reef, where you can spot seals lounging on the rocks, sea lions, and sometimes even orcas in the distance.
4. Lopez Village
   • Explore the island’s charming village with boutique shops, art galleries, cozy cafes, and local restaurants. Don’t miss the Saturday Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and artisan goods.
5. Watmough Bay
   • A hidden gem with a peaceful cove, sandy beach, and beautiful hiking trails surrounded by towering cliffs.
6. Beachcombing and Tide Pooling
   • Visit Flat Point or Agate Beach to enjoy the serene coastline, search for sea glass, and observe marine life.
7. Sunset Viewing
   • Lopez Island is known for its stunning sunsets, especially from vantage points like Otis Perkins Day Park.

What to do on Shaw Island:

Shaw Island is the smallest and most secluded of the four main San Juan Islands served by the Washington State Ferry, offering a serene and off-the-beaten-path experience. Known for its quiet beauty and unspoiled natural landscapes, Shaw Island is perfect for visitors seeking solitude and a slower pace. The island has no commercial hub, with just a small general store near the ferry terminal, adding to its charm. Visitors often come to Shaw Island to unplug and reconnect with nature in a truly quiet and pristine environment.

Here’s a list of things to do on this tranquil island!

1. Explore the Quiet Beaches
   • Visit Shaw County Park or Indian Cove for beachcombing, tide pooling, or simply relaxing by the water.
   • Enjoy kayaking and hiking while exploring these beaches!
   • Shaw Island’s lack of commercial development makes it ideal for unwinding, reading, or meditating in nature.
2. Shaw Island General Store
   • Located near the ferry terminal, this charming store is a hub for the island and a great place to grab snacks or local goods.
3. Monastic Retreat
   • Visit the quiet grounds of the Benedictine monastery run by the Sisters of St. Benedict, a unique spiritual and contemplative space.

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I hope you enjoyed this post on San Juan Islands! But more than that, I hope it convinced you to explore and visit these beautiful islands to see more of God’s amazing creation.

Leave a comment below if you are planning a trip to the San Juan Islands!