The
San Juan Islands are located in the northwestern corner of
Washington
State , between the U.S. mainland and
Vancouver Island, a part of Canada. Although the islands may seem remote, they are actually quite close to the major metropolitan centers of Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia . This proximity provides excellent transportation opportunities, shopping, entertainment, and educational institutions, all within easy reach of a day trip from the islands.
Many services and products can be found on the three islands served by Windermere’s Vacation Rental Program. Visitors will find banks with ATM machines. Federal Express serves all three islands but over-night delivery to the islands is not always possible. Wireless or DSL internet access is available at internet cafés, the public libraries and from some business establishments. All islands have U.S. Postal services, libraries and gas stations. Golf courses are available to the public on each of the three islands. A movie theatre and a skate park can be found on both Orcas Island and on
San Juan
Island . Lopez and
San Juan
Island each have a vineyard. Grocery stores, pharmacy services, and medical care are all available on each island, including Medivac services should the need arise. Public boat docks and moorage can be obtained throughout the islands.
Bicycle and kayak rental establishments are situated on each island. Car rentals can be procured on Orcas or
San Juan
Island year round; or rent a moped or scoot car for exploring
San Juan or
Orcas
Island in the summer. Taxis are also available year round and small bus tour/transit systems operate in the summer months. Whale and wildlife watching tours, National and State parks with interpretive centers, historical sites, museums and art galleries will delight visitors to these islands. Spring, summer and fall months bring farmers markets, arts and craft shows or tours and a variety of other specialty events like antique boat, plane and car gatherings. On San Juan Island enjoy year round an outdoor sculpture park with its outdoor, summer art classes. All year a wide variety of dining choices can be found in the many restaurants serving each of the islands.
Boating, sailing, fishing, and scuba diving are all water activities enjoyed here throughout the year. A lavender farm, day spas, recreational programs, art workshops, and performing arts theatres provide visitors with additional entertainment options. Movie rentals are available on all three islands or visit a movie theatre on Orcas or
San Juan
Island for a big screen showing of the latest Hollywood offerings.
Whether hiking, beach combing, biking, sea kayaking, sightseeing or wildlife viewing-visitors to these islands will find their days and evenings filled with a multitude of choices for relaxing activities amid spectacular views from a wide range of scenic locations.