Island Living

Take a break and read all about it

Activities

Spring Time Explorations

The days are longer, the foliage has sprung, flowers cover the islands with colorful dots. The birds are singing, the frogs are peeping, the air smells clean and fresh! Spring has arrived in full force here in the San Juan …

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Activities

Winter Birds

The San Juan Islands are known for a vast variety of wildlife. Most people  know about the orcas, the humpback and gray whales that are frequenting the waters of the Salish Sea and the foxes and deer seen roaming on …

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Activities

Getting into that Christmas Spirit

Even the crankiest curmudgeon or anti-Christmas person cannot deny the charm that Friday Harbor oozes during the Holidays! The whole town is decked out in colorful decorations and miles of twinkly lights!

DSC_0578When you come in on that ferry you …

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Activities

Shopping in the Islands

I am often asked how I take care of my shopping living on San Juan Island. Most people refer to grocery and essential shopping like toiletries and cleaning supplies. They are curious to find out how often we will go …

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Winterizing

fall

November has arrived and winter is just around the corner. If you haven’t done so, it is now time to winterize your home, especially if your house will be vacant over the winter! Most people will remember to shut off …

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Parking Perils and Perks in Friday Harbor

Parking can be challenging but certainly not impossible in downtown Friday Harbor. We don’t have parking meters but we do have strictly enforced parking times. Our parking enforcement officer Matt is quite nice and he is very careful about doing …

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Pet Friendly San Juan Island

San Juan Island is a very pet friendly place. All pets must be on a leash so you don’t have to worry about your dog getting accosted by someone’s not so friendly dog. We have many hiking trails and beaches …

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Living on a Boat

I find the lure of the sea irresistible. I love the smell of the sea. I love cruising, whether in a sailboat or a powerboat. I don’t get seasick. I’m fascinated by the maps and charts. I love the intricacies …

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The Heart of the San Juans

Is Shaw Island truly the heart of the San Juan Islands? For the approximately 250 full-time residents who make Shaw their home, Shaw Island is not only the heart of the San Juan; it is that special place that attracts …

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The San Juan County Fair

A once a year event, the San Juan County Fair brings back many nostalgic memories for islanders. The fairground is in Friday Harbor on Argyle, within a reasonable walk from the ferries. It starts with volunteer groups of parents and …

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