cathy.nordstrom

I'm headed to the San Juan Islands for 4 days - first trip. Staying on San Juan and visiting Orcas Island. Any suggestions for not-to-be-missed places to shoot? In looking at the satellite map there doesn't appear to be much public access to the beautiful rugged shores on the big island. Anyway, any suggestions appreciated so I can use my time wisely. Thank you.

jak86094

Orcas Island is varied and scenic, from the farmlands to Deer Harbor, to the drive through Moran State Park and up to the top of Mt. Constitution. There’s a stone tower at the top which may offer views of the Sound and the Cascades. And watch for scenic pullouts on your way up the mountain. If you’re going in the Winter, you might not get many views on the mountain, however. The dock area at Westsound is kind of interesting but small, and the village of Eastsound has some picturesque areas and views of the Sound. Rosario has a beautiful old hotel/resort. Doe Bay is another site to check out. Doughty Point may be a good place to look for Orcas. Enjoy. I’ve never been there in winter. Good luck.

cathy.nordstrom

Thank you! So many places to check out. Sounds like you've enjoyed your visits. Hopefully the weather will blow up some cool storm scenes without the rain! Thanks again for your help.

IDguy Loc: Idaho

Go to the fish store on the dock at Friday Harbor. Hope Popeye the seal is still there. She is a sweetie!

IDguy Loc: Idaho

Plus you need to eat at the big white place on Orcas. I forget the name.

cathy.nordstrom

Thanks again for all the tips. I'm leaving at 5 am tomorrow. Off to Bed.

Wanderer2 Loc: Colorado Rocky Mountains

You are correct that their isn't a lot of public access on San Juan Island, most of the land being privately owned by often very protective land owners so be careful about trespassing.

To be concise, my three favorite spots on the two islands:

1. The already mentioned Mount Constitution on Orcas, an almost 360 degree view of most of the Islands and the Cascade Mountains.

2. Limekiln lighthouse, on the west side of San Juan, at sunset.

3. A view of the ferry leaving or arriving at Friday Harbor with Mount Baker in the background at sunset. But finding a good view point can be difficult. The best I found after spending 3 months on San Juan a few years ago is: After leaving the ferry terminal if you drive the street that goes south closest to the water, the one closest to the water, there is an elevated wooden platform that can be used by the public on the east side of the street that gives this view, first looking up a fairly narrow channel, then opening up. Sorry I can't provide the street names. There are some condo or apartment buildings on the other, inland, side of the street.

Hope this is of some help.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I bet you'll have a great time!

https://www.clippervacations.com/magazine/10-photos-that-will-inspire-your-next-san-juan-island-adventure/
https://www.visitsanjuans.com/what-to-do/experiences/beautiful-islands-leave-no-trace-style
https://www.visitsanjuans.com/what-to-do/experiences/10-fun-things-to-do-summer-san-juans
https://www.kenmoreair.com/cgblog/146/9-Best-Places-to-Snap-a-Selfie-on-San-Juan-Island/
https://www.kenmoreair.com/cgblog/146/9-Best-Places-to-Snap-a-Selfie-on-San-Juan-Island/

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

tripadvisor.com

Ghery Loc: Olympia, WA

The last time we were on San Juan island we flew into the Friday Harbor airport, tied down the plane and walked into town. Had lunch at the Downrigger. Outdoor seating, watched the ferry boats come in. Of course, this was in June and the weather was much nicer than it will be this time of year. I would recommend that you go to this area and enjoy the sights.

pilot64 Loc: Atlanta, GA

Take the boat tour with Capt. Jim at Maya's Legacy Whale Watching (Friday Harbor) - check it out at tripadvisor.com. also http://sanjuanislandwhalewatch.com/. Four hour boat ride, best four hours of your life. Take your camera and a 100-400 lens.