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Exploring Matia IslandFrom Bellingham, WaMatia Island was our first stop on our first day of "island hopping" and exploring in the San Juan Islands. My husband and I decided to investigate the Washington State Park Island for future exploration and camping adventures. Leaving from Bellingham, Wa's Squilicum Harbor in the beautiful Bellingham Bay, we headed out towards Lummi Island in order to go up through Hale Passage. The weather was perfect! It was in the high 80's all weekend and the waters were merciful to us in our small watercraft. However, going through Hale Passage, the air temperature was noticeably colder (both ways).
As we rounded the northern tip of Lummi Island and looked off to the west our destination, Matia Island lied directly ahead of us.
We were pleasantly surprised to "see" exactly how close we were to these beautiful islands that always seemed so far away.
As we our getting closer to Matia, we notice a "big rock" we now know as "Puffin Island!" which is a National Wildlife refuge.
Traveling along the southwestern shore of Matia Island eventually we found ourselves at a place called "Eagle Point." As you can see from the photo's, it is properly named.
Approaching the main "land" of Matia, we saw our first inlet to check out hoping it would be just one place to remember for possible camping overnight.
On the far west coast of the island we found this quiant little cove with a sandy beach, no people and the promise of romantic interludes yet to come! (So says my husband!) Although there are no mooring bouys, it appears sandy and calm enough to just beach the boat and tie up to shore.
A little farther around and back to the north and east of Matia Island we found Rolfe Cove. This is the main stop-over on the island. It offers 2 mooring bouys and 128 feet of dock for tieing up to.
Turning back to the northwest we headed over to Sucia Island our main destination for the day. We were treated to a "guided tour" by still yet another of the local eagles!
Nautical Charts For The San Juan IslandsBefore going out and exploring all the beautiful San Juan Island's my husband and I purchased these nautical maps. I tell you, the really have come in handy, and we highly recommend them to anyone who is thinking about exploring the islands and don't have them.The maps are a gem for navigating safely around the islands. They may seem a bit pricey, but worth every penny. Very detailed maps and waterproof! Priceless information for: South Puget Sound Strait of Georgia and Strait of Juan de Fuca Bellingham Bay/Bellingham Harbor North Puget Sound and the general Puget Sound area.
Explore More of the Lovely San Juan Islands!
Matia Island back to Bellingham-Subdued-Excitement Homepage for more Bellingham, WA information!
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