The captivating waterfront community of Anacortes rests on the Washington coastline amongst the natural beauty of Fidalgo Island. Providing local ferry links to the San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island, transportation to and from Anacortes is easily accessible by water taxi. The bordering Fidalgo Bay provides many sightseeing and recreational opportunities. Private guided tours of the surrounding Sunshine Coast, Roache Harbor and the San Juan Islands are available year round by Anacortes Yacht Charters. A variety of whale watching tours are offered throughout the year by Island Adventures, guaranteeing whale sightings or the next trip is free. Anacortes maritime heritage and local fishing industry can be explored through over two-thousand photographs exhibited at the Anacortes History Museum. The SeaBear Smokehouse offers additional fishing attractions including a free tour of an authentic Northwest Smokehouse. Participants of the tour are able to observe hand filleting and traditional methods of smoking Pacific salmon.