A spectacular destination surrounded by the pristine waters of the Puget Sound, San Juan Island boasts beaches and pastureland, historic harbors and parks, museums and marinas. Activities abound and range from hiking and kayaking to shopping and museum-going. Experience the inspiring lifestyle on this gem of an island.

The San Juans are accessible to the public by water and air. (Also see Orcas and Lopez islands.) The most common means of travel is by Washington State Ferry. San Juan Island is located approximately 90 miles north of Seattle and 80 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia. San Juan Island features two main port locations; Friday Harbor, the County Seat is located on the southern part of the island and Roche Harbor is located on the north side. Both communities offer a full range of activities, including the best whale watching in the state.

The Island also boasts two National Historic Parks, British Camp and American Camp. British Camp is northwest of Friday Harbor and has an English Garden and an old block house, located right on the water it is a great spot for clam digging, picnics or weddings.

On the south side of the Island is American Camp which has incredible sweeping views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, wonderful beaches and miles of hiking trails. There are several state and county parks as well as many private resorts which offer accommodations, dining and activities.

San Juan Islands residents take pride in their agricultural and nautical heritage. Conservation easements preserving open vistas across pastoral lands and museums filled with yesteryears' treasures attest to this. The islands, emerald gems on sparkling seas, have hosted visitors for hundreds of years.

For more information, visit San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau.