Island Getaways

You can experience island life in just a couple of hours-or less by float plane. While there are 172 islands in the group, the San Juan Islands most accessible destinations are San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island. The proximate archipelago's attributes include a variety of activities, gorgeous scenery and more sunshine than our fair city.

Enjoy your transition from city life to "Island time," by selecting the best means of transportation for you and your group. Walk, bike or drive onto a ferry-or take a float plane-to paradise.

On San Juan Island, cultural opportunities abound. Spend a day or two at the San Juan Museum of Art, the Historical Museum and Whale Museum. Or, partake in one of the summer art fairs-from June thru October. For the oenophiles, San Juan Vineyards offers wine tasting, and Shakespeare afficianados will delight in the year round outdoor series of plays.

Orcas Island-the largest Island in the San Juans-provides ample activities such as: kayaking, swimming, fishing, whale watching, art gallery hopping, boutique shopping, hiking, biking and golfing. Orcas Island also boasts the largest resort and spa-Rosario Resort- if you prefer a little bit more rest and relaxation.

The first stop off of the ferry is Lopez Island, which is known as the "friendly island." More rural than the other islands, Lopez is home to a population of artists and craftspeople who take tremendous pride in the Island. If you really want to get away from it all, Lopez might be your best bet.

Whatever island you choose, you'll be in for a real treat-and you'll likely come home relaxed and recharged.