Top Reasons to Go

Whale watch: Spot whales and other marine life from a tour boat or sea kayak.

Taste local flavors: Talented chefs have turned Orcas and San Juan Islands into hot spots for sophisticated, locavore-driven cuisine.

Gallery hop: Dozens of acclaimed artists live year-round or seasonally in the San Juans, and you can find their work in studio galleries and group cooperatives throughout the islands.

Indulge in a spa day: Work out the kayaking or hiking kinks with a massage at the lovely seaside Rosario Resort and Spa on Orcas Island or Afterglow Spa at Roche Harbor on San Juan Island.

Bike beautiful terrain: Rent a bike and cycle the scenic, sloping country roads—Lopez Island has the gentlest terrain for this activity.