‘Biggest hits’ in the San Juans
A laid-back, artsy vibe permeates the island communities where local artists showcase their wares at craft markets, and local restaurants dish up farm-to-table feasts.
The whale watching here is often superb. The narrow passages between islands with their nutrient rich fast slowing water, like Haro Strait, Rosario Strait, Lopez Pass and Spieden Channel, are a draw for both Orcas and their prey. The Resident Southern Killer Whales frequent the waters in the late summer and fall to hunt salmon.
Just a reminder to mariners: these same fast currents can be your best friend—or not. Check current tables, not just tide charts. Slack tide and slack current are like siblings who never show up to the party at the same time.
Be aware that the entirety of the waters around the San Juans is a no discharge zone, but there are many opportunities to pump out.
As always, these 21 anchorages are our own biased picks, but we think among them you’ll find a great mix of beauty, variety and charm—whatever season you set sail.
Drayton Harbor and the city of Blaine, off Boundary Bay, are not really in the San Juans, but close enough. Often dismissed as ‘out of the way’ and passed by, the harbor offers a lovely anchorage with views of the waterfront and Mt. Baker. It is birdwatcher heaven, where herons, bald eagles, cormorant and even falcons make regular appearances. Stretch your legs on the Semiahmoo Spit Loop trail and soak up the views from both sides of the harbor.
Boundary Islands: Patos, Sucia and Matia islands together form the Boundary Islands. Named by the Spanish in the late 1700s they translate, respectively, as island of ducks, dirty/foul island and island of no protection. All three islands offer walking trails, along with varying numbers of mooring balls, linear ties and anchorage options. The lighthouse on Patos, the beaches of Sucia, and a rare forest of old-growth trees on Matia, are only a few of the highlights of these popular islands.
Bellingham Bay is seemingly under-appreciated, and also not technically not in the San Juans, but the large bay has much to offer. The city of Bellingham boasts Squalicum Harbour which has plenty of transient moorage and marine repair services galore. We love nearby Fairhaven — a historic and charming community with shops, restaurants and provisioning options close at hand.
Beautiful Larabee State Park lines the southeast shore of the Bellingham Bay. Anchor in the north end of Chuckanut Bay off Clark Point, going ashore at Teddy Bear Cove to access miles of trails through forests, past mountains and lakes.
East Sound has much to offer; the challenge is summing it up in a few sentences. Fair-weather daytime anchorage just south of the marked anchor line in Fishing Bay offers a chance to explore the town of Eastsound’s galleries, Saturday market, supermarket and other shops. Good protection from southerlies, not available in Fishing Bay, can be found in Judd Bay where there are a partially restored lime kiln and hiking trails. At the south end, the artsy village of Olga beckons with a general store, bakery and artist co-op.
Stuart Island is home to a state park of the same name, but that’s just one small attraction here. The island has two excellent harbours, both with mooring balls, and some room to drop a hook. Trails crisscross the island, including one to Turn Point Light which has an interesting museum and stellar views of Haro Strait. Bonus points for those who make the trek.
Jones Island is another state park gem with mooring balls in both coves. The deer are practically locals—friendly, fearless and not above begging. But boaters are asked to resist their doe-eyed charm and not feed them.
Deer Harbour captures the hearts of any who visit. Charming, picturesque and with amenities to boot, Deer Harbor features a marina with docks and a few moorage balls, and even a pool. Dine casually at the grill or treat yourself at the Deer Harbor Inn. Anchorage is best in the northeast corner.
Blind Bay: This large, sheltered bay offers excellent holding and prime crabbing. There’s not much shore access—just the dock at Shaw Landing — but with serenity like this, you might not want to leave the boat. If you manage to snag one of the mooring balls off Blind Island at the entrance to the Bay, count yourself lucky and buy a lottery ticket!
Clark Island is small, and if the weather is settled this is a wonderfully scenic state park. There are mooring balls on both the east and west sides. Watch the weather—it can get rolly. Stroll the beaches, enjoy the views and bring a picnic.
Roche Harbor is, well, touristy, but has its charms: a customs dock, marina, store, café and gift shop. Grab some ice cream and enjoy the buzz. Then, cruise over to nearby Westcott or Garrison bays to chill out. We love Garrison Bay, its secure anchorage and dinghy dock access to the historic English Camp. Don’t miss the walk to Westcott Bay Shellfish Co. for fresh clams.
Friday Harbor has the only year-round customs dock in the San Juans, and is perfect for provisioning or playing tourist. There are restaurants, shops, marine services and enough charm for lots of Kodak moments. Ferries and flights make it ideal for crew changes.
Indian Cove is the place to go if you love sandy beaches. A small boat launch on the beach marks the divide between private property and the county park. The views are stunning and there are campsites and picnic spots to enjoy.
Fisherman Bay is a few miles south of Indian Cove, and another wonderful destination. Here is Lopez Village with its amenties and two marinas. The Spit Preserve includes an old homestead and trails to the end of the spit. Navigation in and out of the bay can be tricky—use tide tables and aim for a rising tide if in doubt. The anchorage is quite well protected.
Griffin Bay at the south end of San Juan Island is a great anchorage. Dinghy ashore to walk 15 minutes to the American Camp. History buffs will enjoy the story, but for beachcombers like me, the South Beach, strewn with driftwood and stretching on forever, never disappoints.
MacKaye Harbor lies eastward on the south end of Lopez Island. Hike the easy trails to Agate Beach and Iceberg Point, where the views are amazing. Keep an eye out for whales. The mooring buoys are private, but the anchorage (especially in Barlow Bay) is secure.
Spencer Spit calls out if you crave sandy beaches. It’s one of the most popular spots in the islands, with mooring balls and anchorage on both sides. Just remember: the low spit doesn’t offer much wind protection, so watch the forecast.
Watmough Bay is stunning. One of Jim’s favorite anchorages, there is a new three-quarter-mile trail to Watmough Head which offers views over the bay and across Rosario Strait to Anacortes and the Cascades.
James Island State Park has mooring balls on the east, a dock on the west, and a primitive campsite in the middle. The island was named for Reuben James, a US sailor who saved the life of Officer Stephen Decatur — the namesake of nearby Decatur Island — during a battle with Tripoli in North Africa. There is anchorage nearby at Decatur Head, but be aware coming or going by human-powered tender, that there can be strong currents between the two islands.
Cypress Island is well known for its treasure trove of hiking trails and heavily forested hills with fabulous views. Bring drinking water since the potable variety is not available on the island. Three east-side locations offer free mooring balls and anchoring is fine in calm weather. Just don’t expect much protection.
Tiny Saddlebag Island in Padilla Bay is best known for its riot of wildflowers in spring. Pebble beaches on both sides generally offer calm swimming conditions, and there’s a pleasant trail around the island for leg-stretching or aimless wandering.
The San Juans offer a blend of wild beauty, maritime charm and welcoming communities who love to showcase their unique attractions. You will discover so much more than these several spots, you’ll be planning your next visit as soon as you are back at your dock.
The Salish Sea Pilot Cruising Guide to the San Juan Islands offers detailed information and chartlets covering all the anchorages above and many more.
