Guest Author - Denise Hoffman

The San Juans are 172 islands strewn across the northwest corner of Washington state; the result of glacier and volcanic action. You enter this idyllic world and immediately exit from your troubles. Washed away with the cool, salty air and the excitement of adventure. The islands are accessible by boat, air or seaplane. The most common method of travel is via the Washington ferry system that makes its route to four islands - Lopez, Shaw, Orcas, and San Juan. Each island is unique, with its own flavor or feel, and varying topography.

Lopez

This thirty mile flat island, nicknamed Slopez, for its slow, peaceful pace is the first ferry stop from Anacortes, on the mainland. Farms and artist studios dot the island. Lopez Village in Fisherman Bay is the main hub with marinas, stores and gift shops, and Holly B's bakery (not for those on diets).

A well-hidden jewel on is Iceberg Point, a park that offers beautiful panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Ask in town or at the Islandale store for directions from the Agate Beach County Park.

Shaw

Tucked between Lopez and Orcas Island is a small, primarily private community. The only accomodations are camping at the South Beach County Park. Shaw does have a small store, a library and a museum. For many years, the Franciscan nuns were a regular sight at the ferry dock running the store and meeting the ferries.

Orcas


Home to Mount Constitution, Orcas topography offers the most challenges for bicyclists with its hilly terrain. At 2400 feet above sea level, experience the islands from an Eagle eye view. For a treat, take a kayak tour in Deer Harbor among the Wasp Islands. Eastsound Village is a true tourist town with gift shops and restaurants with a view. If you are adventuresome, the scenic bi-plane tour is a one of a kind experience.

San Juan

A large island which feels most like rural living on the mainland with the county seat located in Friday Harbor. That is until you reach Lime Kiln Point, located on the west side of the island and a popular spot for resident orcas. Don't miss this park. For history buffs, learn how the Pig war was fought by visiting the English and American camps. It is interesting to see the difference life must have been for the English versus the Americans. Roche Harbor, now a bustling vacation harbor and resort, was a former site of lime production.

The San Juans in a nutshell cannot describe the beauty, yet rugged resilience of the land and its people.