Resources & References: San Juan Islands

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

Washington State Ferries (WSF) App
For real-time schedules, wait times, and alerts. This app helps manage your ferry travel efficiently.
Google Maps/Apple Maps
For navigation on the islands. Download offline maps for areas with limited cell service.
AllTrails
For detailed hiking trail information, including maps, difficulty ratings, and user reviews.
Local Weather App
For accurate and up-to-date forecasts (e.g., AccuWeather, NOAA Weather Radar), as island weather can change quickly.
Social Media Accounts
Follow @visitsanjuans (Instagram, Facebook) for inspiration. Local ferry watch groups on social media give real-time updates.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau
Visitsanjuans.com (Official tourism site with comprehensive information).
Washington State Ferries
Wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries (Main source for schedules, fares, and reservations).
Washington State Parks
Parks.wa.gov (For park information and camping reservations).
San Juan Island National Historical Park
Nps.gov/sajh (Official park information on the "Pig War").
Whale Museum
Whalemuseum.org (For information on marine life and conservation efforts).

Print Resources

Guidebooks

Moon San Juan Islands provides comprehensive coverage. Local maps are available at island visitor centers.

Find on Amazon

Historical Books

"The Pig War: The Last Armed Conflict Between America and Great Britain" by E.C. Coleman details the islands' unique history.

Explore History

Local Publications

Pick up local newspapers like "The Journal of the San Juan Islands" upon arrival for local news and events.

San Juan Journal Orcas Issues

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): 911 (Universal U.S. Number).
PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center: +1-360-378-2141.
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
For international visitors, contact your country's embassy/consulate in Washington D.C. Or Seattle.

Hospital and Clinic Locations

PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center: 1117 Spring St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.
Orcas Island Medical Center: 7 Deye Ln, Eastsound, WA 98245.
Lopez Island Medical Clinic: 1032 Richardson Rd, Lopez Island, WA 98261.
These facilities address various medical needs on the islands.

Lost Document & Disaster Protocols

Report lost passports/IDs to local police and your country's embassy/consulate immediately.
Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents separate from originals.
For earthquakes, "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."
Follow local emergency alerts and instructions from authorities (e.g., local radio).

Safety First: Critical Information

Emergency & Critical Information

Emergency Response

For any police, fire, or medical emergency, immediately dial 911.
This is the universal emergency number throughout the United States.
State your location and the nature of the emergency clearly.
Remain calm and follow dispatcher instructions carefully.

Medical Facilities

PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center, Friday Harbor: +1-360-378-2141.
Orcas Island Medical Center, Eastsound: +1-360-376-2561.
Lopez Island Medical Clinic, Lopez Island: +1-360-468-2245.
These local clinics address various health needs.

Important Contacts

Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222.
For international visitors, maintain contact information for your embassy or consulate.
Keep copies of identification separate from originals.
Local authorities can assist with lost property reports.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Earthquake Safety

In case of shaking, "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" under sturdy furniture.
Stay indoors until the shaking stops and it is safe to exit.
Be mindful of potential falling objects and structural damage.

Tsunami Preparedness

Tsunami risk for the islands is low due to elevation.
If on the coast during a significant quake, move to higher ground.
Follow all local emergency alerts and authority instructions.

Document Security

Lost Passport Procedures

Report lost passports to local police immediately.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate for assistance.
Keep digital and physical copies of passports separate from originals.

Identification & Valuables

Carry only essential identification when out and about.
Do not carry large sums of cash.
Utilize hotel safes for valuables when available.

Driving & Road Safety

Island Driving Practices

Observe speed limits; island roads are often narrow and winding.
Be watchful for cyclists and pedestrians, especially around towns.
Wildlife may cross roads; drive with caution, especially at dawn and dusk.
Yield to local traffic and embrace the slower island pace.
Parking can be limited in popular areas; plan for extra time.

Ferry Terminal Guidelines

Arrive at ferry terminals well in advance of your sailing time.
Follow all signage and staff directions for vehicle loading.
Turn off your engine while waiting in ferry lines to conserve fuel and minimize emissions.
Stay in your vehicle or designated waiting areas until boarding instructions are given.
Be prepared for potential delays during peak travel periods.

General Safety Reminders

Outdoor Safety

Inform someone of your hiking plans and carry appropriate gear, including water and first aid.

Personal Safety

Travel in groups when possible and remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Financial Security

Keep valuables out of sight and use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations.

Travel Insurance Notice

Travel insurance offers protection for unexpected events. Consider coverage from providers like World Nomads for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings.

Travel Essentials & Itinerary

Chronological Planning Timeline

Early Planning 3-6 Months Prior

Book Washington State Ferries vehicle reservations.
This step is critical, especially for summer travel and holiday weekends.
Book major accommodations.
Popular resorts and vacation rentals fill quickly during peak season.
Research and book high-demand tours.
Secure spots for whale watching or multi-day kayaking expeditions.

Mid-Range Planning 1-2 Months Prior

Finalize all lodging arrangements.
Book any remaining accommodations to complete your stay.
Plan detailed daily itineraries.
Outline activities, considering travel time and ferry schedules.
Arrange car rentals on the islands or mainland.
On-island rentals are very limited and book far in advance.

Closer to Departure 1 Week - 1 Day Prior

Weather & Packing

Check the latest weather forecast to pack appropriate clothing layers and gear.

Check AccuWeather

Logistics Confirmation

Confirm all bookings: accommodations, tours, and transportation. Review ferry schedules for updates.

WSF Updates

Final Preparations

Charge all electronic devices. Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Pre-Trip Research Topics

Destination Familiarity

Familiarize yourself with island geography and ferry routes.
Learn about responsible wildlife viewing, especially for orcas.
Understand local customs and "island time" for realistic expectations.
Read reviews of accommodations and tour operators.

Home Preparation

Secure your home: lock doors, stop mail delivery.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Water plants to keep them healthy during your absence.
Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.

Arrival & Departure Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

Have ferry tickets/reservations ready for scanning.
Navigate directly to your accommodation.
Acquire a local map from the ferry terminal or visitor center.
Locate grocery stores for initial supplies.

Departure Preparation

Purchase souvenirs locally to support island businesses.
Confirm your return ferry or flight details.
Allow extra time for travel to the mainland terminal or airport.
Post offices can assist with shipping heavier items.

Ferry Travel Tip

Double-check ferry schedules for any last-minute changes on the day of travel. Delays can occur, and being aware helps you adjust plans.

Resources & References