San Juan Islands

Who knew island life existed in Washington state and just 40 minutes from Seattle?! Welcome to San Juan Islands. There are four islands in all - San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, & Shaw. I spent most of my time in Friday Harbor on the "big" island of San Juan. It had such an island vibe from the shoreline restaurants to the boutique shops, everything was sunshine and ... whales. 

Orcas, commonly referred to as killer whales live in the waters of the Salish Sea and are often seen around the islands.

There's only one way to get to the islands that quickly and it's by seaplane. My first thought when I saw the little 6 seater plane was oh my, what have I gotten myself into? Is this thing safe? The staff and pilots at Kenmore Air were quick to put my mind at ease and I'm telling you, this was an experience I will never forget and one of the most fun and adventurous days of my trip! The picture above was taken from the seaplane and I guarantee the views are like nothing else you will ever see. Spectacular!!

Now about those whales.... once you've enjoyed time on the island, get aboard one of these beauties courtesy of San Juan Safaris and venture out to sea. Each journey comes complete with your very own Naturalist on board to help you locate, understand, and relate to all the wildlife the islands have to offer.

Photo by Lynda Eatchel

We saw sea lions playing on a rock, a bald eagle resting in a tree, & a grey humpback whale coming up for air, all of them, beautiful. 

Photo by Lynda Eatchel

It was very clear to me that the people here have nothing but respect and love for these animals. Every precaution is taken in order to protect them. To see them in their natural habitat was purely amazing. Many thanks to Lynda for the beautiful photos!

Photo by Lynda Eatchel