TripAdvisor: Top 10 Best Islands in US

TripAdvisor 2015

TOP 10 BEST ISLANDS

IN THE U.S.

Travel + Leisure: Top 5 Islands Continental US

Travel + Leisure 2016

TOP 5 ISLANDS

CONTINENTAL U.S.

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Getting here is half the fun and there are so many easy options to choose from:

  • Washington State Ferries: A leisurely ride on a Washington State Ferry from Anacortes gives you a taste of the archipelago's beauty, with a choice of stops at four islands—Lopez, Orcas, Shaw or San Juan.  You can now make a reservation at www.takeaferry.com.  Ferries will accommodate cars as well as walk-on passengers.
  • Seasonal Passenger Ferries: From Seattle's waterfront, Port Townsend or Bellingham, hop onto the San Juan Clipper, Puget Sound Express, or San Juan Cruises (respectively) for a day or overnight trip to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.
  • Air Travel: Fly from Seattle or SeaTac International Airport on a Kenmore Air seaplane or wheeled-plane, or take a regional flight.
  • Car Rental: Rent a car at SeaTac and drive to the Washington State Ferry terminal in Anacortes.
  • Airport Shuttles: Take an Airporter Shuttle from SeaTac to the Washington State Ferry terminal in Anacortes.
  • Visitor Information Centers: When you arrive in the islands, stop in at the Orcas, Lopez and San Juan Island Chambers of Commerce for maps, brochures and information about where to go and what to do during your stay.
  • Getting Around: When you get to the islands, you can also get around with shuttles, mopeds, bikes, and car rentals.
E.g., 2017-2-20
E.g., 2017-2-20
E.g., 2017-2-20

Inspiration for the Senses

Enjoy the Quiet Season

San Juan Islands Events

Upcoming Events

Explore the Islands

Featured Experience

Things to do this Winter in the San Juan Islands

At the turn of the year, an island getaway helps you clear your head for a new beginning

The islands are quiet this time of year. Go winter hiking, or take a trail ride in a serene forest, followed by a refreshing local ale in a small pub. Spend time in an art museum or gallery, or sink into a rejuvenating spa. Come alive again in the San Juans!

Otis Perkins State Park, Lopez Island, Photography by Robert Harrrison

Dining in the Islands

Fine dining in the San Juan Islands means tasty food—often locally produced—served in a laid-back atmosphere (forget the jacket and tie). Many of the islands’ restaurants take advantage of the bounty from local growers. Consider adding a local wine, beer, cider or spirit to your meal in these establishments—labels from San Juan Vineyards, Orcas Island Winery and Lopez Island Vineyards & Winery are featured on many of their wine lists.

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