Part 5 in the series “What a summer it’s been.”

There are so many amazing places to paddle, it’s tempting to go someplace new every time we get the chance — much like it’s tempting to read a new book every time you have the opportunity, rather than return to one you’ve read and enjoyed before. And yet, we find ourselves returning again and again to certain places. The San Juan Islands in Washington is one of those spots.

Seth Albanese, tending to the rock gardens.

Why? It’s partly the environment: accessible ocean, stunning coastline, tidal currents, sea life, verdant hills (though somewhat less so this year, due to the drought). And it’s partly the people: our friends Shawna and Leon, Seth and Svet, John and Camille (and their amazing kids), and many others we’ve met through them.

Our friends Seth Albanese and Svet Petrova.

This place simply feels like home. We love the Washington State Department of Transportation ferry, with its communal jigsaw puzzles and open-air decks; the roads that wind past rabbit and alpaca farms; and the blackberry brambles that grow like weeds. But above all, we love getting out on the water with friends.

The view from the ferry deck.

The San Juan Islands are sheltered from the full force of the Pacific Ocean by Vancouver Island, so although these waters are tidal, they generally aren’t terribly rough. We can and do find more dynamic waters in places where currents, winds and constrictions conspire to create tidal races and strong eddy lines, but we also enjoy the navigation challenges, the marine life, and the scenery. And because of what we’ve learned over the years — everything from paddling skills to seamanship — we’re able to enjoy paddling here all the more.

Alec and Svet take a break from the action at Deception Pass.

In August, we were able to spend time paddling and coaching on Orcas, as well as working on Body Boat Blade‘s new shop space. During one paddle from Orcas to Friday Harbor, we saw a grey whale working its way through the strait. We also took a three-day trip to the mainland with Seth and Svet to kayak in and around Deception Pass, and paddled canoes on the the Skagit River with talented local coach and paddler Leslie Mix.

Alec and Seth on the Skagit River.

There’s never enough time for all the great paddling and people in the San Juan Islands, on the water and off.

Leon working on the new shop space.

We appreciate the Great Lakes and never take them for granted. But we especially appreciate being able to travel to places like this and connect with the people and the waters. We’ll be back in summer 2016, and we’re already looking forward to it.

Sharon working on the “deep diggity dig” while peeling out of an eddy at Deception Pass.