Worst Places and Attractions in the San Juan Island Cruising Area.

What places should you avoid when cruising the San Juan Islands?

Some San Juan Islands locations are popular but offer little beyond anchoring. Places like Blind Bay lack public access, docks, or shoreline landing, while Eagle Harbor has limited facilities and difficult dinghy access despite many buoys. This article highlights spots that may disappoint boaters and suggests better nearby alternatives with trails, beaches, and amenities. 

While perusing  San Juan articles, I came across a comment that recommended going to Spencer Spit.  My first thought was. That's bad advice. Why would they give bad advice?  I thought some more and decided, #1 Maybe they don't know any better.  #2 Maybe just for them, it was an okay visit. #3 Perhaps I am wrong.  And that is how I came to create this negative San Juan Islands article.

Not every popular stop in the San Juan Islands is worth your time.

San Juan Islands places to avoid

Some well-known stops attract boaters mainly because they are easy to anchor in, not because they offer good access or amenities. Blind Bay provides little beyond open anchorage, while Eagle Harbor’s muddy shoreline and limited facilities make landing difficult. Nearby alternatives like Pelican Beach offer better access, trails, and overall cruising experience. 

It is more than a little subjective to name off so-called second-rate or low-rated anything.  But if you think about it, we have no problem talking up all the really great places, so for the very same reasons, we should also talk about the crappy ones.  And at the very least, explain why or what makes them such so that you may decide for yourself where to hang out.

So here's a no-no list followed by explanations for their inclusion.  Keep in mind, these reviews are from a boater's perspective.  My goal here is to save cruisers some frustration or disappointment when using their limited time and resources to visit less-than-great destinations.

How to Plan an Unforgettable San Juan Islands Vacation Cruise

   How do you plan an unforgettable San Juan Islands cruise?  

Planning an unforgettable San Juan Islands cruise is easier than most people think. It starts by setting a firm date, choosing a launch point, and keeping your itinerary flexible. Popular starting locations include Cornet Bay, Squalicum Harbor, and Washington Park, with routes shaped by tides, weather, and interests. Allow time for parks, harbors, and spontaneous stops to make the trip memorable. 

Embarking on any adventure begins with making a firm decision to go and setting the date. Follow these easy steps for the boat trip of a lifetime.

Washington Park ramp

1.   Setting the Perfect Date: 

       Choosing the right time for your trip requires careful consideration. We have traveled throughout the San Juans from early spring to late fall, and each month offers a unique experience. July and August offer the best weather and blooming flowers but also attract the most visitors. May and June may bring cooler and wetter days, but they also offer excellent sailing winds and the chance to see newborn fawns. September and October may bring foggy days, especially near Deception Pass and the Strait of Juan De Fuca, but you might be rewarded with fewer crowds and wonderful weather. Keep in mind that early spring and late fall may find some businesses and parks closed or partially operational. It's essential to make inquiries to ensure it doesn't affect your plans.

2.     Where to Start: 

      The answer to this question varies for each boater, but there are a few common options. If you're coming by boat from Seattle or the Puget Sound area, you'll need to go around Whidbey Island through either Admiralty Inlet and Port Townsend or Deception Pass. Many skippers prefer Deception Pass due to calmer waters and no commercial shipping. The Deception Pass route also allows for a visit to Cornet Bay or a detour through Swinomish Channel to explore La Conner and Anacortes. Although Port Townsend is an option. Personally, I recommend choosing La Conner or Cornet Bay.

3.      Trailering Boat Arrival Options: 

       Most boaters arrive with their boats on trailers. To find suitable ramps for launching, you can refer to this comprehensive list: (http://www.sailingthesanjuans.com/p/taking-your-boat-for-camping-vacation.html). However, only three ramps are typically preferred: Squalicum Harbor in Bellingham, Cornet Bay at Deception Pass Park, and Washington Park in Anacortes. Cap Sante Marina in Anacortes offers a travel lift hoist but no ramp. Washington Park is the closest to the San Juans and allows for a quick start, but parking may be limited during peak times. Parking at Cornet Bay and Squalicum Harbor is always readily available. We have utilized all three ramps multiple times, and our choice depends on our destination and who accompanies us. Sometimes, dropping off children at Washington Park is convenient if they need to return home early. Personally, I enjoy the Deception Pass area, so if our agenda is clear, Cornet Bay is our preferred choice. Note: I do not recommend taking a ferry to the islands with plans to launch at any of the county ramps. The ramps are inferior, and most don't allow overnight parking. An exception may be small skiffs or kayakers.

4.      Rest After Travel: 

        If you've traveled a long distance and then rigged and splashed the boat, chances are you are exhausted, and it is getting late. It's advisable to spend the first night at a nearby dock or location. Both Cornet Bay and Squalicum Harbor offer transient docks next to the launch ramps. Note that Washington Park only offers a launch dock and is not suitable for overnight stays. Anchoring out front in exposed Guemes Channel, while very doable, will not be much fun due to the many wakes. Nearby welcoming places like James's Island, Cypress Head, or Saddlebag Island, located about four miles away, offer great options depending on your route. Keep in mind that anchoring requires a dinghy to reach the shore. Alternatively, last summer, we tried inflatable paddleboards instead of a dinghy, 
but their usefulness as a full-time dinghy substitute is still uncertain.

5.      Planning Your Itinerary:

      Your itinerary doesn't have to be rigid, with specific stops for each minute or day. It's more enjoyable to have a rough idea and a list of preferred stops. For example, you might want to have a late lunch and buy ice and groceries at Friday Harbor, but you can do the same at Lopez Village, Roche Harbor, or Eastsound. Consider visiting stores when your ice melts on day two or three and take the opportunity to enjoy a hot shower. Most villages and marinas offer groceries, fuel, and shower facilities. Don't worry about being turned away as ample anchorage is available throughout the islands. Consider saving fuel and time by following a great circle route and avoiding backtracking. Visit the outer points early while you still have ice and snacks, and then recharge in the villages. Allowing seven days for your trip is ideal, as anything less might feel rushed, while more time will be well spent.

6.      Additional Excursions: 

       Don't miss out on Butchart Gardens and Victoria; both can be day-only overnight additions to your San Juan Islands trip. While reservations aren't necessary, make sure to carry your passports for re-entry into the US.

7.      Easy Five Island - Ten Stopover Itinerary:

Day 1: Launch at Cornet Bay in Deception Pass Park, spend the night at the transient dock.

Day 2: Run to Jones Island, spend the night at anchor or dock.

Day 3: Run to English Camp, hike up Young Hill, have lunch at Roche Harbor, and return to Jones.

Day 4: Run to Friday Harbor, have lunch and showers, buy groceries, and return to Jones.

Day 5: Run to Stuart, hike to the lighthouse, and dock or anchor for the night.

Day 6: Run to Sucia, anchor or dock for the night in Fossil Bay, and hike to China Caves and Ewing Cove.

Day 7: Swing by Pelican Beach On Cypress and/or Saddlebag Island for a short hike.

 Then run through Swinomish Channel, have lunch at La Conner, and arrive in time for a beautiful Sunset back at Deception Pass, spend the last night at the Cornet Bay dock.

Weekend Getaway or 2-3 day itinerary >>> Mini outing in the San Juans

By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable boat trip through the stunning San Juan Islands. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty and create lasting memories. Most of all, you will have fun.

If you really want to take advantage of tides and currents, consider this guide

San Juan Islands area current atlas

Click below to see satellite view of  Cornet Bay moorage and ramp