Blog Archives | Page 9 of 28

Exploring the Wonders Under the Surface of the San Juan Islands

Sea Lion in the Salish Sea by Jess Newley — This Steller sea lion is just one of the unique wildlife encounters that you can enjoy while visiting the islands. Keep an eye out for large colonies hauled out on rocks and an ear out for their roars often heard throughout the night. Photo by Jess Newley

Breaching killer whales, soaring eagles, swimming sea lions, and stunning shorelines—these are just a few of the sights that people travel to the San Juan Islands every year by foot, boat, or plane to behold. If you’ve been to the islands before, then you know that their moniker as “the hidden gem of Washington State” is true. But did you know that under the water there is a whole system of wondrous natural resources (eelgrass, kelp, forage fish, juvenile salmon, and of course, killer whales, to name a few) that support what we get to experience above the surface?

August 3, 2022/by Jess Newley

The Ultimate Orcas Island Getaway

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

Orcas Island View by Eduardo Hueck — *48(ish) hours sampling the best things to do on the biggest island in the San Juans.*

This quaint destination, tucked within Washington’s gourmet archipelago, is loaded with enough baked treats, fresh seafood, and epic views to keep everybody happy. Residents of Orcas Island unite around the core conviction that they live in a beautiful and relatively untouched place. Here, artists thrive, hikes abound, and sea-to-table cuisine reigns supreme.

July 26, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

Easy San Juan Island Day Hike: Mt. Finlayson

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

Deep forest lagoons, sweeping grasslands, and an iconic lighthouse make this easy jaunt a favorite for visitors and locals alike.

At the southern edge of San Juan Island, you’ll find the longest stretch of public beach in the archipelago. The preserved waterfront property is thanks to the Pig War — an 1859 confrontation between the U.S. and Great Britain. While remnants of battle installments and officers’ quarters can be found throughout the island, the ‘war’ was far from gruesome. Just one shot was fired and the only casualty was a hog.

July 15, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

Ultimate Seattle, WA to Victoria, BC Weekend

Things to do in Victoria

Victoria is just 25 miles from Port Angeles, the closest American shore. That’s 25 miles closer to America than its Canadian mainland. But the quaint British Columbia capital feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of US city life thanks to its walkable streets, historic architecture, and generally upbeat culture.

Like its residents, its gardens tend to be bright and cheerful — thanks in large part to incredible Victoria BC weather patterns. Tucked within the Olympic Rainshadow, the small metropolitan hub gets 308 days a year with sunshine! So whether you’re looking for indoor activities or plenty of fresh air, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Victoria, BC.

July 7, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

Secrets to An Unforgettable San Juan Island Adventure

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

Riding a scoot coupe and moped on san juan island — *Eat, Explore & Enjoy it All this Summer. Photo by Adam Gilani*

Summertime practically begs for a trip to the San Juans Islands. There is something extra special about the islands this time of year. The islands are bursting with gorgeous blossoms, beautiful windswept beaches, glimmers of blue sky, and an abundance of fresh produce. One trip is all you need to feel gratitude for the beautiful place we get to call home. Hop on a seaplane and spend your weekend visiting both new and familiar places, eating delicious food, and being reminded of the intense charm small-town life has to offer.

July 1, 2022/by Lisette Wolter-McKinley

Captain Brian Flegel and Lead Jaazia C Moran Flegel

Kenmore Family

Flegels at Kenmore Air — *They met on a climbing wall – a flight instructor and an artist. Today, they share a dock for an office.*

Husband-wife duo — Kenmore aIR Captain Brian Flegel and Line Crew Lead Jaazia C Moran Flegel — are passionate adventures. As a pair, they have trained and performed as both trapeze and acrobatic artists. They’ve spent a summer commercial fishing in Alaska and four summers woodland firefighting.

It was there, creating firebreaks and protecting the forest, that Brian’s passion for seaplanes was ignited. He learned to fly at Walla Walla University, but it was on an uphill firebreak that his own personal spark was ignited. During breaks, the couple watched as firebombers (seaplanes equipped to dump water) swooped just above the flames and released their loads.

June 29, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

7 Hours Exploring San Juan Island from Friday Harbor

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

With its lush landscape and plethora of activities, it can be hard to leave the Emerald City during the summer. Throughout the prized months of sunshine, locals and visitors alike try and soak up every bit of the fun things to do in Seattle. But just at the edge of the US and Canada’s watery border rests a quaint archipelago that beckons those looking for a bit slower-paced adventure.

But exploring a slice of the San Juans doesn’t have to mean giving up a whole weekend. (Though you certainly could and wouldn’t regret it.) Nor does it mean investing several hours in commuting. The San Juans have never been easier to reach, thanks to the new 25-minute scenic flight departing from Paine Field, just outside of Seattle.

June 21, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

The Magic of Scent at Zingaro Floral Perfumery in Victoria, BC

Things to do in Victoria

Zingaro Floral Perfumery Victoria BC — *Victoria’s Palma Cafolla’s parfum and flower shop transports visitors deep into memories and beloved destinations.*

Zingaro Floral Perfumery could well be a time machine. The small boutique is tucked within a historic building on Johnson Street, less than half a mile from the Victoria Harbour Airport. The space is an Instagramer’s daydream, filled with the kind of treasures that evoke a mix of old-world elegance and whimsical fun.

June 6, 2022/by Mikaela Judd

Staycationing in the Emerald City

Things to do in Seattle

Seattle Staycation with Kids — *Exploring Seattle with kids gives you a fresh perspective on one of the most vibrant cities in the Pacific Northwest.*

Picture breathtaking mountains, moss-laden forests, and fresh salty air paired with mild weather and amazing year-round outdoor activities. Where is such a place, you might ask? For those of us lucky enough to live in Seattle, it is called home.

Often upon returning back from a trip, I am reminded I already live in one of the most spectacular places in the country. Although my family and I normally don’t take the time to vacation where we live, it only took a pandemic to realize how much there is to learn and explore in our city. And most importantly, we were reminded how rejuvenating a vacation can be without a long plane or car ride.

May 26, 2022/by Lisette Wolter-McKinley

San Juan Island Brewing Company

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

Built, Brewed & Poured by Locals

Bringing back craft since 2017, San Juan Island Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery set in the beautiful and awe-inspiring San Juan Islands. Based in Friday Harbor, the brewery is known for highly sessionable, true-to-style beers, specializing in old-world ales and lagers that are all unified in being flavor balanced and pairing well with food.

May 9, 2022/by Charlotte Chevalier