For spectacular sunsets, Washington’s San Juan Islands are second to none. About three hours northwest of Seattle by car and ferry (or a 30-minute seaplane ride) the San Juans continue to beguile a rising tide of visitors. Ride the state ferry through the “Juans” at dusk. Sip a drink and watch the evening light at Roche Harbor Resort on San Juan Island. The Lopez Islander Lopez Bay Resort on Lopez Island overlooks Fisherman Bay, famous for its quiet beauty and outrageous sunsets. On Orcas Island, look out from Mount Constitution’s 2,407-foot summit to a panorama of sunset-colored islands, mountains, and waterways. From the village of Eastsound, take a bi-plane ride at dusk. Other Puget Sound islands with glorious sunsets include Bainbridge, Blake, Camano, Fidalgo, Lummi, Marrowstone, Vashon and Whidbey.
Locals suggest...
Aerial flightseeing at dusk from Roche Harbor, on San Juan Island.
Drive to Whale Watch Park on San Juan Island’s west coast for glorious evening light.
Leave your umbrella at home -- The San Juan's receive about half the rainfall of Western Washington's mainland.