San Juan Island Vacation Rentals
By Caitlin Moore

So you’ve decided to place your next vacation in a setting that is laid-back, peaceful, rich with character and well above average in terms of showcasing the natural beauty of a country sometimes better known for its theme parks and southern playgrounds for the rich, famous and retired. Embracing a place like Washington’s San Juan islands rather than overlooking them will be the best holiday decision you’ll ever make, as will enhancing the scene by choosing to stay in a snug, charming vacation rental for the duration of your trip.

The San Juan Islands are the embodiment of all things lovable about the Pacific Northwest – gorgeous, unpretentious, filled with activities of various kinds, and completely welcoming of newcomers and repeat visitors. A stay here is restorative; no matter which island is chosen or which itinerary is drafted, adventurers and break-takers will leave feeling recharged and ready for whatever the world has waiting.

No matter where you are, having a vacation rental at your disposal makes life easier. Unpacking a suitcase into a proper closet, sitting back on a sofa in a tastefully decorated living room, checking email in the computer nook and whipping up a quick meal in the easy-to-navigate and well-equipped kitchen are all moments that tend to push regular trips into the realm of fantastic. Little details have a way of coming together seamlessly within the walls of a vacation home and make a solid foundation for the rest of the week’s events.

For example, Orcas is the largest of San Juan’s islands and makes for a good home base. This is the place to hike to the top of a mountain, rent a bike and go exploring, or simply stroll around one of the hamlets in search of fresh fruits and vegetables, a great cup of coffee or a fabulous dessert. Imagine a friendly-looking vacation cottage smack dab in the middle of a lush forested area of Orcas. Wake up each morning knowing that you can do what you want; take a ferry to one of the nearby islands, rent a sea kayak for some wilderness-themed exercise, or settle down on the sun-dappled patio and turn your attention to that novel you’ve been wanting to read.

San Juan Island is another major draw, and also has a few attractive rental properties worth taking a look at. In one quaint cabin the windows reveal 180 degree views of the harbor (there’s a dock right out back) and a ten minute walk will take guests right to town. Sailors take note; there is a yacht available for use with this home as well as a full kitchen, washer and dryer and a king sized bed. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself longing to stay for more than just a handful of days…

Once it’s been decided to head to the San Juans, the anticipation will begin to build. Bird watching, sightseeing, antiquing, swimming, fishing, whale viewing, hiking and more are all options that will exist before you as you wake each morning and ponder your choices. Culture and Mother Nature coexist so mix up the schedule by including both civilized and wild diversions and then return to your home away from home to wind down and sleep peacefully before doing it all again.

San Juan Island Vacation Rentals come in many different shapes and sizes and are scattered about this archipelago. Choose the one that calls out to you, and be glad that you’ll soon be headed to a region of the country that truly deserves your eager attention.

Visit HomeAway.com and peruse the vacation rental listings here and in other parts of the world.