There are places in this world that are devastatingly breathtaking, and the San Juan Islands in Washington state is one of them. By far one of the most beautiful places in North America, if you find yourself making plans for a springtime vacation, one of the first places to consider in the Pacific Northwest is here.

Rows and rows of daffodils and tulips line the roads of Anacortes, Washington’s surrounding area called LaConner. It’s a farm community and so idyllic it is ridiculous. The tulip festival happens annually in April, and the daffodils keep on blooming until the middle to end of May.

Even tons of snow geese flock there for spring.

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Deception Pass, a short drive from Anacortes and the pass with the most badass name for miles around, is a place that connects Fidalgo Island and Whidby Island. When you walk over the bridge, you’re compelled to curse at how unbefuckinglievably beautiful nature can be. I was able to be there with friends and they experienced the same compulsion. If you need a staunch reminder of how small we really, really are, all you need do is visit Deception Pass, aptly named for being, well, deceptive. All appears calm, the water and the trees. Then, it happens. You’re in the middle of the bridge finding yourself barely able to walk in any direction from the blasting, encompassing wind. It’s well worth the battle with the wind to get to the view, though:

Everywhere you turn in this region is blooming and beautiful, so pop that Allegra and get on out to this stunning location.

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This article appears in May 8-14, 2013.

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