Island Hopping In The San Juan Islands

Just north off the coast of Seattle, the San Juan Islands enrapture visitors with emerald coasts, an abundance of outdoor activities and an art and food scene fit for any city slicker looking to decompress.

GETTING THERE: Ferries leave out of Anacortes, about 80 miles north of Seattle, to San Juan, Orcas, Lopez and Shaw Islands. If you want to explore multiple islands, it's worth renting a car and we strongly suggest avoiding the ferries on the weekends. A quicker option, and one perfect for just a day trip, is to hop a float plane out of Seattle.

SLEEP: The Inn at Ship Bay, Orcas Island, is an 11 room inn that sits on the top of the bluff with views of Ship Bay and is home to one of the Island's best restaurants.

Turtleback Farm Inn: Orcas Island, is a seven room country farmhouse nestled in the woods that serves up an award winning breakfast.

Birdrock Hotel: San Juan Island, is a modern, eco- friendly, 8 room hotel located in the heart of bustling Friday Harbor.

Highland Inn: San Juan Island, is a discreet, two room inn that makes a perfect romantic getaway.

Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes: San Juan Island, offers lodge, log cabin, canvas tent, or airstream lodging options. The perfect anecdote for roughing it.

Been to the San Juan Islads? Share your recommendations.

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This post was originally published on June 8, 2012