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San Juan Islands, Washington
Things to do and learn
![]() Whale and Wildlife ViewingThe San Juan Islands in Washington State offer a unique opportunity for families to view whales and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The islands are home to a variety of marine mammals, including orcas, gray whales, humpback whales, and dolphins, making it a prime location for whale watching. Visitors can take a guided tour on a boat or kayak to spot these magnificent creatures as they swim and play in the waters around the islands. | ![]() KayakingKayaking in the San Juan Islands is a great way for families to explore the area's natural beauty while providing lots of educational opportunities. Children will love being out on the water, paddling around the islands and observing the local wildlife while also learning about the environment, marine biology, and conservation. A guided kayak tour is a safe and fun way for families to experience the islands, give children a sense of adventure and accomplishment, and provide an opportunity for ha | ![]() HikingHiking in the San Juan Islands is an excellent way for families to experience the area's natural beauty and learn about ecosystems. The islands offer a variety of trails, from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes that showcase the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the region. Children will have the opportunity to explore the forests, beaches, and meadows and observe the local wildlife, such as birds, deer, and small mammals. |
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![]() BikingThe islands offer a variety of bike trails that showcase the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the region. Families can learn about the environment, marine biology, and conservation while biking together through forests, beaches and meadows. | ![]() MuseumsFriday Harbor, on San Juan Island, is home to several museums that offer a variety of learning opportunities for families. The San Juan Historical Museum, for example, provides visitors with a glimpse into the island's past, from the indigenous people who first inhabited the area to the early settlers and their way of life. The Whale Museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the marine mammals that inhabit the waters around the islands, including orcas, gray whales, humpback whales, and do | ![]() American HistoryAt one time the San Juan Islands were a disputed territory. Children can explore San Juan Island National Historic Park and learn about this interesting part of American History. |
![]() EcologyWith access to a variety of beaches teaming with wildlife and fauna, the San Juan Islands are a perfect backdrop to study coastal ecosystems. Children can take a ecosystem scavenger hunt searching for clues as to how organisms interact with their environment. | ![]() Marine BiologySea lions, seals, whales and dolphins are some of the marine mammals that inhabit the waters of the coast of San Juan Island. Children can learn about the different types of marine mammals and learn about their unique biological adaptations. | ![]() GeographyWhat is an archipelago? How are they formed? There is no better time to find out than while visiting the San Juan Islands. Children can explore the geology of archipelagos and create a collection of samples documenting its geological history. |
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