Seattle to Vancouver this September

When?

Title says September. Nice time to be there, good weather, worst of the crowds mostly gone (assuming you mean after the Labor Day weekend...if there then, watch out).

In addition to whale watching, if you have never been in a sea kayak and are physically capable I'd suggest a kayak tour. You can get up really close to the scenery and see the intertidal/shallow water zone area from a new perspective. Can't count on it, but if you happen to be in the vicinity of a whale in your kayak, it can be rather exciting because you acutely realize how small you are and how big they are. Speaking of whales, the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor may be of interest. History buffs should note the San Juan Island National Historical Park with it's story of a pig that nearly caused a war between US and British forces.

thanks very helpful.....sounds like fun

We are thinking about just going to one of the San Juans.......any favorites?

any recommendations on nice boutique hotels or B and B's?

thanks again

I'd suggest either San Juan Island or Orcas Island, each an easy ferry ride from Anacortes. San Juan will have more people and things to do, like whale watching or the whale museum or visiting the national historic parks there. Orcas will be more laid back, with Moran State Park and Mount Constitution, which you can drive up and from which you can see the whole area on a good day.

Last fall we stayed in this place on Orcas, liked it a lot. A long walk or short drive to the only real town on the island. There are other good B&Bs there, and many more choices on San Juan.

Hopefully you'll be driving, it's hard to get around the islands otherwise. You can reserve space on a specific ferry, which might be a good idea if you're looking at a September weekend. That website also shows ferry schedules.

thanks..very helpful.....may be back as we get into more details......