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Cruisin' the San Juans: What to do on your next trip to the Islands

From Lopez to Orcas to an island with a population of 20, these spots are a must-visit on your next trip
Credit: KINGTV

ROCHE HARBOR, Wash. — EDITOR'S NOTE: KING 5 Evening's "Cruisin’ the San Juans” special episode originally aired in July 2019. 

Nestled in the reefs of San Juan County, you'll find 172 named islands -- the San Juan Islands. Visitors come from far and wide to experience island vibes right here in the Pacific Northwest. 

From familiar locations like Lopez and Orcas -- to an island that has a population of 20, we'll share just a few of our favorite activities and spots on this beautiful archipelago. Now sit back, relax, and keep reading to learn why the San Juans are considered a boating paradise!

Go Boating in Roche Harbor

It was once known for having the largest limestone deposits on the West Coast. Today, Roche Harbor is a reflection of a different natural resource... the pristine waters of the San Juan Islands.

READ MORE: One of the best marinas on the West Coast is in Washington

Go Shrimping off Roche Harbor

A trip to the San Juan Islands is not complete without experiencing some of the freshest seafood the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Just off Roche Harbor on the Islands, you can catch your own shrimp.

READ MORE: Try catching your own shrimp in the San Juan Islands

Visit Stuart Island

No ferry will get you to Stuart Island on the San Juans. To reach this pristine place, you're going to need a boat.

READ MORE: Explore the San Juan Island that has a population of 20

Visit Orcas Island

People come from around the world to whale watch here -- but here's what to do, what to eat, and where to stay on the San Juans' largest island.

READ MORE: Whale watching isn't the only reason to head to Orcas Island

Eat around Lopez Island

Experience all the island has to offer with fresh oysters, baked goods, and award-winning wine. With a short 40 minute flight on Kenmore Air from Seattle to Lopez Island, there's not a lot of time to build up an appetite. But if you come hungry to this jewel in the San Juan's, there's plenty to sink your teeth into. 

READ MORE: Eating your way around Lopez Island

Sleep in the trees on Lopez Island

If your childhood dream of owning a treehouse never came true, you can rent the reality on Lopez Island. Built originally as a writing retreat by owners Bob and his wife Sean, the Hilltop Treehouse has become one of the most sought-after destinations on Airbnb.

READ MORE: Sleep in the trees at this Lopez Island retreat

Sleep in a boat on Friday Harbor

The Wharfside is a one-of-a-kind B&B that's guaranteed to float your boat. Today the Wharfside Bed and Breakfast gets visited by guests from around the world and is tied fast to the docks at the Friday Harbor Marina.

READ MORE: The San Juan Island bed and breakfast that also happens to be a boat

Couldn't find what you're looking for? KING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Email.

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