15 Coastal Towns Across America Where History Meets the Sea

12. San Juan Islands, Washington: A Maritime Mosaic

The San Juan Islands, located in the Salish Sea, are a stunning archipelago where the whispers of history are carried by the sea breeze. These islands have a rich maritime history, from the indigenous Coast Salish tribes who first inhabited the area to the European explorers and traders who followed. Visitors can explore the San Juan Island National Historical Park to learn about the "Pig War" boundary dispute or visit the Whale Museum to discover the islands' rich marine life. The islands' natural beauty, with their rugged coastlines and abundant wildlife, make them a captivating coastal destination where history and nature converge.