Georgetown & West Seattle - Seattle - page 403

Explore
There are 172 landfalls in this expansive, magically beautiful archipelago, but unless
you're rich enough to charter your own yacht or seaplane, you'll be restricted to seeing
the big four - San Juan, Orcas, Shaw and Lopez Islands - all served daily by Washing-
ton State Ferries. Communally, the islands are famous for their tranquility, whale-
watching opportunities, sea kayaking and seditious nonconformity. A great way to ex-
plore the San Juans is by sea kayak or bicycle. Expect a guided half-day trip to cost $45
to $65. Cycling-wise, flat Lopez is tops, San Juan is worthy of an easy day loop, while
Orcas offers the challenge of undulating terrain and a steep 5-mile ride to the top of Mt
Constitution.
The Best...
» Sight San Juan Island National Historical Park ( Click here )
» Place to Eat Mijita's ( Click here )
» Place to Drink Front Street Ale House & San Juan Brewing Company ( Click here )
Top Tip
Whale-watch from the shore from the west side of Lopez Island, Lime Kiln State Park
or the American Camp of the San Juan Island National Historical Park.
Getting There & Away
Airlines serving the San Juan Islands include San Juan Airlines
( www.sanjuanairlines.com ) and Kenmore Air ( www.kenmoreair.com ) .
Washington State Ferries (WSF; www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries ) leaves Anacortes for the
San Juans; some ferries continue to Sidney, Canada, near Victoria. Ferries run to Lopez
Island (45 minutes), Orcas Landing (60 minutes) and Friday Harbor on San Juan Island
(75 minutes). Fares vary by season; the cost of the round-trip is collected on westbound
journeys only (except those returning from Sidney). To visit all the islands, it's cheapest
to go to Friday Harbor first and work your way back through the other islands.