We actually have a ban on Jet Skis, one that people worked hard to achieve through the courts. The State Court confirmed that our county COULD ban jet skis, after a battle several years long in a test case with the jet ski industry fighting it every inch of the way. Let's just say that people like their peace and quiet.  Also, although we barge into fast food joints when we are off island, it would be a real uphill battle to get any of them on San Juan Island, because, frankly, few if any people want them. Part of being unique is feeling that you are not like other places everywhere else in any way!

If you've ever lived in a small place, like San Juan Island, you know that opportunistic and judgemental people make enemies. There is no anonymity here. You meet each other often at the grocery store and post office. The person standing next to you at the checkout stand may be the brother or former husband of someone you criticized. The cashier may be the neighbor of the of the woman who bought your lemon of a used car. It tends to keep you on your good behavior. If you are unforgiving in a small place, you run out of friends in a few years.

The ferry is the way most of us get to and from San Juan Island. If you can't stand to wait then the ferry schedule or traffic may put you over the edge. For others, it's a nice time to wind down, take a nap, gear up, finish a project, read a book, or talk with friends. Most San Juan Island residents come prepared in case they miss the ferry, the ferry is late, or they get put on overload. For more on the ferry, see the Island Info page, below. You can also go to the digs, or you can us.   Who are we?  This is where we work:  Island Group Sotheby's International Realty in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.

This is from our original wesite, created in 2001...with some updates.  We hope you enjoy its old-timey style.