The unique beauty and sunny weather of Washington's San Juan Islands have been famous for generations. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the nearly 200 unique islands get about half the rainfall of Seattle. The alluring charm of this archipelago is expressed both in its natural landscapes, and its diverse wildlife - above and below the water. Grass and moss carpeted hillsides give way to graceful madronas and sculpted firs. Wildflowers fill the meadows in spring and early summer. The occasional sand or gravel beach is punctuated by whimsically shaped sandstone, beckoning the kids to explore. Rich emerald waters yield fish for the grill, crab and prawns for a shore-side feast. Three groups of orca whales call the islands home during the year, chasing the salmon that migrate through. Eagles perch in shore-side trees, and a variety of seabirds cruise the bays and channels, diving for fish. Protected park land abounds with several islands devoted entirely to the marine explorer. A large variety of trails provide great opportunities for discovery. A sunny overlook, a hidden cove, a quaint one-room school house, or an abandoned lighthouse are among the myriad treasures to be found. Local artist's galleries, restaurants, and elegant resorts with spas lend variety on the bigger islands.
With a two hour sail to the north, the Canadian Gulf Islands take up where the San Juans leave off. Similarly beautiful in topography and weather, they provide a quieter, even more relaxed experience. Myriad peaceful coves, madrona-clad sandstone bluffs, and mossy woodland trails invite adventurers. As in the San Juans, many sandy beaches lay thickly fringed with white shells; the telltale evidence of ancient village sites of the seafood eating Coast Salish people. Relax with us in a protected anchorage while one of the famous sunsets caps another memorable day.
Highlights of these tours can include:
• mild, sunny weather
• great hiking
• orca whale watching
• salmon fishing
• interesting seaside villages
• restaurants, local artist galleries, shops
• variety of marine parks, protected areas
• whale watching- humpback, orca, and porpoise and dolphins
• visiting ancient native sites
• warm saltwater swimming (Desolation Sound)
• excellent sailing
• hiking
• visiting remote seaside villages