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Lying in the rain shadow of the Olympic mountains, these special islands enjoy a moderate and dry climate, receiving only about 29 inches of rain a year. As a result, a species of prickly pear cactus is indigenous to this area. |
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As with their Canadian neighbors further north - the Gulf Islands, the San Juans have been inhabited seasonally for about 2000 years. They were used as summer homes by people of the Lummi, Samish, and Songish tribes. Today, about 60 of these islands are still populated. |
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Named in 1791 by Spanish explorer, Francisco Eliza, in honor of his patron, the viceroy
of Mexico, four (Orcas, San Juan, Lopez, and Shaw) of the larger maze of islands are accessible by convenient ferries that leave from Anacortes in Washington State and Sidney in British Columbia. Flat Lopez Island is a favorite of boaters, largely due to its sheltered bays and marine parks. Cyclists also wheel here for an enjoyable and fairly easy day of exploring. |
| Quiet Shaw Island, with its lack of facilities and small population, is an ideal family destination, if you arrive early enough at the campsite. Remember there are no other facilities, restaurants or entertainments on this tiny island. |
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Historical Orcas Island offers visitors every distraction they could want, with small settlements, bays, accommodations and the largest park on any of the islands. |
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The biggest of the islands, San Juan Island, and the seat of the county government, is home to
the bustling Friday Harbor. Historic
sites such as Roche Harbor and the British and American camps are also popular and whale
watching is a big plus on this island. Up until the 1970's the San Juans were a sleepy backwater, but in the last 20 years the population has doubled. Sleepy no longer, but diverse and beautiful, the San Juans are definitely worth a trip, especially off season. |
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| Tired of the hustle and bustle of the mainland? Looking for peace and tranquility and that slower pace of life? How about the San Juan Islands? If you are looking for your "perfect place" in the San Juan Islands, let me he lp you in your search. Whether it is on San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, Shaw Island or the outer islands, I specialize in vacant land, residential, and waterfront properties. I bring integrity and years of experience to the home buying and real estate selling processes. Click here to view my featured listings. |
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