What are little known places in the San Juan Islands?
Everyone knows about Rosario - Friday Harbor - Roche Harbor and Sucia Island. Of course, they are famous and not to be missed.
But some of the best San Juan area
destinations are much less traveled.
And even less talked about.
Out of the way places have secrets where a little local knowledge may turn a ho-hum cruise into a truly memorable event. I am listing and describing some of our favorites, feel free to make them yours too.
Not in any order or preference!
#1 Saddlebag Island
At the top of Guemes Channel northeast of Anacortes in Padilla Bay is diminutive Saddlebag Island State Park.
Saddlebag has only 24 acres, its distinctive dog-bone shape creates two teeny bays. The north one suitable for two anchored boats, or only one if the skipper hogs the middle on a long rode. We have always been able to anchor fifty feet from shore. The dinghy ride is short and sweet, the gravel beach is friendly and steep. The bay catches a little flotsam and wayward seaweed so an aroma may be mixed in with treasures you find.
The narrow center isthmus holds a small campground and outhouse (newer). Hiking the shoreline trail is easy and follows a handy figure eight shape affording views in all directions. Being less than two miles from Anacortes makes Saddlebag an easy kayak destination.
The waters on the east side of Saddlebag are shallow and rock strewn, circling the island is a white-knuckle event at lower tides. Your dinghy or kayak would be a better choice than the mother ship if you are determined to gunk-hole.
We stop at Saddlebag for lunch and a hike, overnight if it is late, or just a quick anchor and hike. We always see something new, and never go away unhappy.
Saddlebag may only be rated as five star, you will be glad you stopped by.
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