Let us acknowledge that we reside on the ancestral lands and waters of the Coast Salish people who have called this place home since time immemorial and let us honor inherent, aboriginal, and treaty rights that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Things change when you're on island time. Priorities re-sort. We value a slow pace here, and invite you to "Love It Like a Local" - treating the San Juans with the same care and respect as you would your own backyard. It's an environment we all cherish and want to protect, and we encourage you to embrace island time while caring for one another and nature itself.
Loving the Islands like a local can mean many things — bringing a reusable water bottle, joining a work party or other volunteer event, driving carefully on narrow island roads, and everything in between. The beauty of the Islands is meant to be shared and locals urge you to learn the history of this special place so we can work together to ensure it endures. Here are a few ways to help preserve the qualities that make this place special, and enjoy a better visit in the process.
Book ferries and accommodations early, and consider visiting in the shoulder seasons or during the week for the best island experience.
On an island, water is everywhere. But fresh water is always at a premium. With lower rainfall from May to October, our water supply is not recharged during the summer. Conserve when you can, keep showers short, and shut off the tap instead of letting it run.
Stay on established trails, campsites, and parking spots. Erosion happens quickly. It's not only unattractive, it can affect the local ecosystem.
A friendly reminder to keep an eye on your campfire and make sure it's completely out before leaving it unattended.
Bring a reusable water bottle and mug to reduce waste, and try to limit plastics, which can be harmful to wildlife. All of the Islands' garbage and recycling must be hauled to the mainland.
Please keep pets on leash and dispose of waste properly. Dogs running free can disturb wildlife and other visitors.
Many of the most popular parks have very limited parking. Avoid disappointment by visiting early/late in the day when they may not be as crowded.
Thanks for being patient, sharing the road, and keeping noise and speed down
Drone use is discouraged and prohibited in parks or other public lands without proper permits.
Let the experts do the driving while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Check out San Juan Transit, Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley, or the Orcas Island Shuttle.
M&W Auto has great options for eco-friendly touring. Check the map of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations if you need to recharge.
Check out these bike rental options (some include electric-assist): Meat Machine Cycles, Discovery Sea, Susie’s Mopeds and Bicycles, Gilligan's Island Style, Orcas Bikes, Wildlife Cycles, Lopez Bicycle Works
Our wildlife is precious to us and we want to keep them wild. We know that this is their home, too, and we must work to protect their way of life. This is why we don't feed the foxes and maintain a safe distance while watching them. When on the water, we know to give marine life plenty of space to forage, play, and communicate with each other by being "whale wise."
Use these local resources to learn about the Islands before you visit. Discover the insider's guide to island stewardship and use the responsible recreation checklist to pack all the right clothes and accessories.
