The Washington Ferry System is amazingly well organized. Vehicle reservation in hand, we line up and are out of the harbor right on time. From Annacortes, the ferry meanders through the strait, past Orcas Island, stopping at the heavily forested Lopez Island before ending the journey at Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. We head out to the western coast, through lush woods, green rolling farmland, past alpaca farms and to the coast overlooking the east side of Vancouver Island. The area below a lighthouse is frequented by whales and other sea mammals. We see a sea lion but no Orcas today. The old English soldiers camp sits in a picturesque cove and the walking paths are pleasant. Huge billowing clouds make for a cool, breezy beautiful day.
The Discovery Inn is not as charming as its website photos but is quiet and clean. Off season and midweek, most of the restaurants are closed but the Downrigger serves up tasty clams in curry sauce and a healthy buddha bowl.
