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Explore Washington State Logo Shape of Washington State
  • Lime Kiln Lighthouse in San Juan Island, Washington
    Things To Do | Destinations | Friday Harbor | San Juan County

    Spending a Weekend on San Juan Island

    ByElizabeth Blanton July 12, 2024March 15, 2026

    San Juan Island sits in the northwest corner of Washington state, just across the water from Canada. Located three hours north of Seattle by car and ferry, San Juan Island hosts visitors from around the world. It is one of four islands in the San Juan Island archipelago served by the Washington State Ferry system. …

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  • Afterglow Vista
    Things To Do | History | San Juan County

    Visiting Afterglow Vista on San Juan Island

    ByAmy Shull July 1, 2024November 19, 2025

    As many visitors to this page can probably identify with, I sometimes get a restlessness if I’m cradled in the mundane for too long. When this happens, I often turn to Atlas Obscura for travel inspiration to seek out unique destinations and avoid the crowds. When I read about Afterglow Vista, I knew I had…

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  • Ferry to the San Juan Islands. Bottle of wine and some choclolates
    Destinations | Friday Harbor | San Juan County

    Scootin’ Around San Juan Island

    ByLisa Mize May 29, 2024December 21, 2024

    In my opinion, scootin’ around San Juan Island is the best way to see this gorgeous and adventurous island. With a bit of planning, you won’t regret it either! In the morning, walk on to a Washington State Ferry in Anacortes. Be sure to read the schedule carefully, as not all boats go to each…

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  • Lopez Island
    Things To Do | Destinations | San Juan County

    Spending A Weekend On Lopez Island

    ByNicole Klauss April 27, 2021February 20, 2026

    If you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway with gorgeous waterfront views, rolling farmlands and forested trails, Lopez Island is the place for you. Lopez Island, the third largest of the San Juan Islands is about an hour and a half drive and short ferry ride from Seattle. You won’t find a glamorous nightlife here,…

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  • whale watching in the san juan islands
    Destinations | Fun with Kids | Recreation | San Juan County | State Parks | Things To Do

    Wandering Washington’s Whale Trail

    ByDanielle LaRock February 19, 2021August 29, 2025

    As a 90’s kid, Warner Bros’ “Free Willy” was my introduction to Orcas. I imagined myself as Jesse, fist high in the air screaming “Yeah!” as Willy leapt into the Pacific and swam to freedom. As cheesy as the film may seem now, fictional Willy tells a not-so-fictional story. Many of these animals spend their…

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  • mountains
    Destinations | San Juan County

    Spending a Weekend on Orcas Island

    ByBrandon Fralic November 18, 2019February 5, 2026

    The San Juan Islands are an iconic Washington State destination. Rising from the Salish Sea north of Puget Sound, this emerald archipelago is comprised of 172 named islands — only three of which offer visitor lodging and attractions. Travelers flock to the islands during summertime for an abundant dose of natural scenery, outdoor activities and…

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