If it's orcas--those black-and-white sea pandas, that you want to see--head to San Juan Island. From May through September, close to 90 of these wonderful creatures ply the waters of Haro Strait, on the island's westside. There, Lime Kiln Point State Park offers opportunities galore to observe the whales of J, K and L pod in their spy-hopping, lob-tailing glory.
San Juan Island is also the home to Friday Harbor, the largest town in the San Juans and the only one that's a stop on the Washington State Ferry system. Find charming shops, galleries, restaurants and more in this bustling seaport.
Head to the island's Northwest corner for Roche Harbor, a world-class resort with humble beginnings from the late 1800s as the log bunkhouse for the Roche Harbor Lime and Cement Company. If you're a history buff, don't miss American or British camps, two national parks offering tours into the island's rich past. With a wide variety of outdoor, historical, shopping, and dining opportunities, San Juan Island offers the islands’ widest variety of experiences.