The San Juan Islands are rich with history, but it is also known for splendid vistas, saltwater shore, quiet woodlands and orca whales. It is here that in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over a dead pig. Visitors arrive by g=ferry or by plane. Popular activities in the San Juan Islands are hiking, visiting the American and British camps, kayaking/canoeing, tide pooling, whale watching, bird watching and when in season, picking exotic Himalayan blackberries.