Favorite anchorages of the PNW

[Cutwater28GG]

As I start planning out the summer plans my mind turns to exploring a few of the anchorages of the San juans and puget sound. To date I've been the chicken cruiser usually opting to find a dock space rather than an anchorage.

I'd love some recommendations on places that are good to explore as a newbie.
It seems in the summer most cruising guides state how busy some anchorages are so any tips appreciated!

 

[BradOwens]

My two favorites in the San Juans are Reid Harbor on Stewart Island and Echo Bay on Sucia Island. Reid Harbor is well protected from the weather, and has floating docks off shore that are usually open. You can then dinghy to shore. If those docks are full, there is a linear mooring system that you can tie to, again using your dinghy. Finally, if all else fails, the bottom has good holding for anchoring. Echo Bay is less protected from easterly winds, but still a good spot, and Sucia is, in my opinion, the most beautiful of the islands.

 

[Red Raven]

Ditto what Brad says. Reid and Echo are great places to start on your anchoring adventure. They are large enough with so many options you'll nearly always find a spot. As mentioned, do watch for easterlies in Echo however. I have been in there on the linear with some nasty NE winds overnight and it was pretty scary up against the ropes. This was one case where I think anchoring would have been preferable to the linear tie so the boat could swing into the wind. The good news is there are plenty of other options at Sucia (go to Fossil Bay on a ball or one of the docks or the bays on the west side if easterly winds are predicted). Be sure to check the weather forecast before you pick your option.

There are many other great anchorages in the San Juans but they can be tight and I think the two Brad mentions are the best to try out as a newbie.

I think we have hit Sucia at least once nearly every summer since we started boated camping in our 19' Maxim Cuddy 20 years ago. It is a very special place!

 

[Les Blackwell]

While Reid and Sucia are great places a good place to anchor is Garrison Bay on San Juan Island. It is just south of Roche Harbor and if you anchor close to the Block House you'll have plenty of water but not so deep as for all the sailboats to anchor on top of you. It is a great park with wonderful walking trails.

Another good anchoring spot is Blind Bay on Shaw Island. Plenty of room and a nice little store next to the ferry dock. A small island for the kids to scamper on and a good place to crab. At night if it is very peaceful, watch the lights of the ferries as they go to Orcus Landing. My wife and I call it Pagoda lights. Blind Bay is a safe harbor as well.

Have fun.