Exploring the Outer San Juan Islands

We spent one glorious day on the water exploring the many many San Juan Islands linking Canada and the U.S.  I had no idea how many islands made up the chain along the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  Many of the islands are inhabited by a lucky few dwellers who call them home for the summer.  All our brimming with wildlife and so much natural beauty.

As we skimmed across the water we caught glimpses of seals, porpoises, Minke whales, and even a few bald eagles.  It was a sunny perfect day for boating.  I was able to catch a sense of it on camera, but nothing beats the feeling of cruising along the shores of these magnificent islands in search of Orcas and bald eagles in the wild.

At the end of our adventure, we can home with heavy hearts as we didn’t ever get that glimpse of an Orca in the wild.  It was a good lesson for us all.  Travel, a metaphor for life is really about the journey isn’t it? Being able to share this journey with those we love in the wide open astounding spaces on this earth make the journey all the sweeter.  The orcas are out there and when we find them, it will be worth the wait.

Have you been to the San Juan Islands? Where are some of your favorite spots? We can’t wait to head back again soon!

More about our complete two week road trip to the Pacific Northwest!