By Jessica Wick|Updated on December 04, 2023(Originally published August 25, 2016)
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Jessica Wick
Author
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
Ask anyone in Washington about our best vacation destination and you’ll find that most of them will say the same thing: the San Juan Islands. This tranquil group of islands is a wonderful place to go to relax and forget your troubles any time of year.
There are 172 named islands and reefs in San Juan County, but the ferry serves four: San Juan Island (home of Friday Harbor), Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island. These are the most populated places, and that’s where you’ll find the best places to stay, eat, and relax. These 9 hidden gems on the islands sometimes get overlooked by the more popular places, but we happen to think they’re just as incredible.
Yellow Island is an 11-acre preserve that’s located near Orcas Island (you can kayak there from Orcas Island’s Deer Harbor). More than 50 species of wildflowers and the brittle prickly pear cactus grow here, and you might see some exciting wildlife like harlequin ducks, oystercatchers and harbor seals. Yellow Island contains a beautiful and unique ecosystem. Learn more about planning your visit to the unforgettable Yellow Island.
Even in a world of fresh seafood, sometimes you just need some pizza. This little oasis serves it piping hot, and they make their dough fresh daily - in fact, they’ve been known to close early on occasion when they run out of dough. Learn more about why Van Go's Pizza is one of the best places to eat on the Washington Islands.
Don’t let the casual appearance of this little cafe fool you. You might order at the counter, but the food quality is anything but fast. Vita’s hosts wine tastings, cooking classes, live music and Friday night tastings of delicacies like paella. Meals are enjoyed on their beautiful outdoor patio. Visitors should note that Vita's is open seasonally, so be sure to check out Vita's Wildly Delicious website for updates and more.
This quaint little cove is a true place to get away from it all. You won’t find property developers, snack bars or even restrooms here. It’s just a private place with clean sand, two rocky headlands and a crescent shaped beach with perfect tidepools for exploring. Learn more about planning your trip to the wonderfully rustic and off-the-grid Grandma's Cove. To catch a glimpse of the beauty of Grandma's Cove, watch the brief YouTube footage below:
You’ll find Cattle Point on the southern tip of the island. With two sandy beaches with rocky edges, some great grassland and stunning views, it’s got some of the best scenery in the area, and that’s saying a lot. Cattle Point also has a lighthouse that dates back to 1888. Here's a stunning clip of Cattle Point that will show you just how spectacular the scenery there is:
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6. Judd Cove Preserve, Orcas Island
Judd Cove Preserve, Judd Cove Rd, Eastsound, WA 98245, USA
Most people who visit Orcas Island flock to the beautiful Crescent Beach, but the Judd Cove Preserve is an underrated treasure. You’ll find it on the western shore of Eastsound, and it’s home to 12 acres of forest, shoreline, tidelands and freshwater wetlands. You’ll also find a partially restored lime kiln and quarry from the 1880s. Learn more about the beautiful hiking trails at Judd Cove Preserve. Want to see something fascinating? Check out the below footage of Judd Cove Preserve on a rare snowy day:
7. The World’s Skinniest Latte Shop, Friday Harbor
This narrow little "blink and you’ll miss it" coffee shop also happens to serve fresh juice and ice cream. There is no room for seating, of course, so you’ll have to get whatever you’re craving to-go. Visitors should note that the World's Skinniest Latte Shop is open seasonally.
8. The Field House on Midnight’s Farm, Lopez Island
Midnight's Farm, 3042 Center Rd, Lopez Island, WA 98261, USA
Step off the beaten path and right into farm life. The Field House offers a classic farm stay, and as a guest, you’ll be welcome to feed the pigs, help in the garden and walk the surrounding trails. The kitchen is stocked with basics in case you feel like cooking or baking. Learn more about how you can book your private farm stay at the Field House on Midnight's Farm.
When it comes to Washington's hidden gems, Reuben Tarte Memorial Park certainly qualifies. Explore two small beaches separated by a rock bluff at this quiet park on the northeast part of the island.
The San Juan Islands should be added to any Washington traveler’s bucket list. Here are some other must-see spots in Washington. Have you traveled to any of the above destinations? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!
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Natural Attractions In Washington
Beth C. |December 03, 2023
What are some of the most famous natural wonders in Washington?
Washington is an absolutely stunning state. Below you'll find a list of some of the most famous natural wonders in Washington:
Mount Rainier
Diablo Lake
Dry Falls
La Push
Hoh Rainforest
Mt. St. Helens
Columbia River Gorge
Of course, these are just a handful of Washington's most stunning places. For an even deeper dive, check out our full article outlining the unique natural wonders of Washington.
What are the best hiking trails in Washington?
One of the best ways to experience Washington is by hiking through it. Check out our list of some of the best hiking trails in Washington:
Rattlesnake Ledge Trail
Skyline Trail Loop
Lake 22 Trail
Marymere Falls Trail
Hall of Mosses Trail
Sol Duc Falls Trail
Mount Rainier via Emmons Glacier Trail
West McMillan Spire via Godell Creek Trail
Snow Lake Trail
Iceberg Point Trail
Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail
Curious to learn more? We've put together the ultimate Washington hiking guide for you to check out. There's a hike for every kind of explorer on this list!
