Imagine an island where bright starry nights are untouched by bright lights and a tight-knit community celebrates holidays together like family. On this island, you are minutes from the most popular San Juan Islands, just two hours from Seattle, and in the midst of unmatched natural beauty and recreation. To appreciate the qualities of Guemes Island, you'll need to breathe its clean air firsthand and drink in the magnificent scenery and panoramic views. Located in the southeastern San Juan Islands and a short ferry ride from Anacortes, Washington, Guemes Island's rustic charm, laid-back lifestyle, and pastoral landscape are just a few of the qualities that draw people to its shores.

From its annual boat parade at Christmas to its festive Fourth of July celebration, Guemes Island is place where people feel at home all year long. The island's population of only 600 (that number doubles in the summer) creates a true small-town atmosphere that warmly welcomes visitors. Involved in sports, book clubs, volunteering, and much more, Guemes Island home owners enjoy slow-paced living amidst green forests, farmland, and spectacular bay, island, and snow-capped Mt. Baker views. You'd be hard-pressed to find neighbors more committed to preserving the rural character of the island while supporting the community's needs.

With only one general store, a community center, church, and library, Guemes Island offers a simple and peaceful alternative to mainland bustle. Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway or fun with the family, or you're contemplating becoming a resident of Guemes Island, you'll look forward to each return to this serene and beautiful setting. Tour boats and charters routinely make stops at the island, and a ferry makes frequent trips from nearby Anacortes. The one-mile wide channel separating Anacortes and Guemes Island is quick seven-minute ride. On your way to the Guemes Island ferry you may want to stop and browse in downtown Anacortes.

Outdoor Recreation in a Breathtaking Setting

For outdoor enthusiasts, endless recreation awaits. Sea kayaking, boating, sailing, biking, hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing are just a few of the activities that await you. To experience the beautiful shoreline and water like you've never seen it, try one of the many sea kayaking tours available here. You'll see graceful bald eagles flying overhead, green wooded landscapes, tranquil views of nearby islands and Mt. Baker, and you may catch a glimpse of an Orca whale in the distance. Whether you're an experienced kayaker or a novice, adventure tours enable you to see the islands according to your needs. You can enjoy a short trip designed to catch the sunset and learn the basics, or choose a multi-day trip that includes bicycling, sightseeing, and camping. Besides the rocky coastlines, it's common to see great blue herons, Pacific harbor seals, and Dall's porpoises, among other wildlife. Many outfitters even provide camping and safety equipment.

If bicycling or hiking around wooded cliffs appeals to you, look no further than Guemes Island. Its paths provide plenty of stunning scenery and tranquility to enjoy while you get some exercise. Boating and sailing are two main reasons why people come to Guemes Island; with several public boat launches and quick access to neighboring islands, you'll always have a new place to explore. Tours and charters are the perfect way to experience the coast or other islands if you don't own your own boat. Bring the whole family and witness Orca whales breech the blue waters as you glide by. Fishing also plays a big role on the island, which is no surprise when you consider the abundant marine life and beautiful places to cast your line. Other popular activities include clamming, crabbing, and beachcombing, all of which offer relaxing ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Experience Simple Island Pleasures

If you haven't seen your neighbors for awhile, you're sure to bump into someone you know at Guemes Island's only general store. Located on the island's ferry dock, Anderson's provides groceries as well as lunches to order, full breakfasts, and a limited dinner menu. An institution on the island, Anderson's is a quaint reminder of the simple lifestyle here. If you need additional services or groceries, it's a quick ferry ride to Anacortes, where you'll find stores, shops, restaurants, art galleries, marinas, and a movie theater. Another popular small business on the island is the Northwind Gallery on North Beach, where local and nationally known artists display their inspirations. Guemes Island real estate gives you access to several public parks, a playground, and beaches, as well as a community center, church, library, and a public boat launch. For visitors to Guemes Island, the beachfront Guemes Island Resort provides rustic, comfortable cabins with stunning views, boat launch, and boat access. Providing barbeques, rowboats and kayaks, and a sauna, these accommodations also feature full kitchens and plenty of room for outdoor games or just relaxing from a busy day packed with activities.

A Past Shaped by Industry and Art

A portion of the Samish Indians' home was originally located on Guemes Island. In 1791, Spanish explorer Jose Narvaez of the Eliza Expedition discovered and named Guemes Island and Padilla Bay after the viceroy of Mexico. Over time, the Samish Indian population decreased and surveyors, prospectors, hunters, soldiers, and trappers settled on Guemes and Fidalgo islands, eventually becoming farmers and cattlemen. After a depression in the economy ended in the late 1890s, the two islands rebounded. During World War I, a shipyard employed 600 people on Guemes Island. After Anacortes hosted its first Anacortes Arts and Crafts Festival in 1962, Guemes and Fidalgo islands became magnets for artists and writers who continue to contribute to the islands' cultural reputation.

Dream Homes Waiting for You

With eight square miles of waterfront property and green farmland, Guemes Island real estate offers the peaceful retreat many people are searching for. Whether you're looking for a cliff-side haven, a beachfront cottage, or a home nestled in the woods, you'll feel pleasantly removed from city and suburban life in a way that most people will never experience. Guemes Island real estate includes wooded lots, homes with spectacular bay and territorial views, luxury homes on the beach, and modest beach houses. If you're looking for the perfect place to build a secluded dream home, you'll sure to find a lot that's suited to your needs.

Many Guemes Island homes are located near beaches and pastureland and some lots feature dramatic views of Guemes Valley or Mt. Guemes. Located on the southwest corner of the island is the Holiday Hideaway neighborhood, which includes community recreation facilities. With access to three beaches, Hideaway residents enjoy evergreens, views of the yachts, tugs, and sailboats cruising by on Puget Sound, and secluded privacy (yet close proximity to the ferry dock). Whether you're looking for a seasonal residence or a full-time home, you'll want to consult with your Guemes Island Realtor to learn more about your options. San Juan Islands real estate is an ideal location for investing, and Guemes Island is no exception. Whatever type of real estate property you need - second home, rental property, or year-round home - it's important to talk to your San Juan Islands Realtor who specializes in your areas of interest.

For more information about Guemes Island real estate, contact expert San Juan Islands Realtor Jean Groesbeck at 800-327-5291, ext. 2010 today.

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