Check out these interesting facts about the San Juan Islands:
There are no traffic lights anywhere in the islands. People hardly even honk
Just a 30-minute seaplane flight from Seattle or a scenic ride on a Washington State Ferry
In summer, passenger ferries connect Bellingham, Port Townsend, and Seattle with the Islands
New National Monument Status (1,000 acres) – 2013
Orcas Island was named by a Spanish explorer for his expedition’s sponsor, Viceroy Juan Vicente Guemes de Padilla Horcasitas y Aguayo. Just coincidence that it’s also habitat for orca whales!
4 iconic lighthouses on public lands; three open to the public in summer.
Washington State Ferries is the largest ferry system in the U.S and also connects the Islands to Canada
San Juan County has more marine shoreline than any other county in the country (408 miles)
San Juan County is the first county in the country to ban Jet Skis
San Juan County is considered an “Arts Hot Spot” by the Washington State Arts Commission
San Juan County is the first county in the U.S. designated as a voluntary “Leave No Trace” area
Friday Harbor, San Juan Island: National Trust for Historic Preservation Destination of Distinction
World-renowned for shore-based orca whale watching and sea kayaking in the heart of the Salish Sea
San Juan County residents are highly ranked nationally and statewide for quality of life, longevity, and physical and mental health, according to recent national studies
Roche Harbor’s business license pre-dates Washington statehood. The company, in continuous business since 1886, is now a destination resort offering a spa and five lodging choices—from historic to luxury
The “Gourmet Archipelago,” has four shellfish farms, three vineyards, three breweries, one cidery/distillery, and six tasting rooms featuring local and Northwest wines, local beers and locally distilled spirits. Enjoy farm feasts and festivals, in a thriving culinary arts scene
San Juan Island National Historical Park commemorates peace over war during the “Pig War” crisis—the last time the U.S. and Great Britain were engaged in a territorial dispute
An ordinance banning Styrofoam take-out containers was passed in 2010, followed by a ban on single-use plastic bags in 2016.
Recent Awards:
Travel + Leisure: “Top Islands Continental U.S. and Canada” 2003-2012, 2014 - 2018, 2020-2021
New York Times: #33"52 Places to Go in 2019"
USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice: #1 “Best Washington Attraction” 2017
