San Juan Island, 65 miles north of Seattle and reachable by small plane, private boat or the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes, is safe, fun and super friendly. Living on a small island in a close-knit community makes being bigoted a lot more arduous. It’s hard to hate up close.
San Juan County had a voter turnout of over 90% with over 70% voting democratic in the 2020 general election. More working artist live here than in any other county in Washington State. The isle is also a forerunner in environmental stewardship, has no fast-food chains, billboards or traffic lights. It’s fairly straight and white, in an adorable coastal town with flower baskets kind of way. A lot less boho than Olympia or Seattle, there is no scene, but you can show up anywhere, in the fanciest restaurant or the most casual watering hole, however you feel like and will be welcomed.
Favorite Places to Stay
Check out the Earthbox Inn & Spa, a retro motor inn with heated indoor pool, sauna & hot tub, beautiful gardens and an onsite spa. They are in walking distance to everything in Friday Harbor, help book whale watching and kayak tours for you and offer wedding group discounts in early Spring and late Fall. Their adorable, little sister hotel is the Bird Rock Hotel, a block and a half from the ferry dock. It’s run like an air b&b and features 15 unique rooms, from deluxe suites with harbor view and two person jetted tub to very affordable, small European sleeping rooms with shared baths.
Former Fishing Village by the Salish Sea
There are over 20 restaurants, bars, cafes and bistros in Friday Harbor; all in walking distance to the ferry dock. Six wine bars, nine galleries, three museums and countless antique shops and cute boutiques are lining the streets. Explore the Saturday Farmer’s Market, arts fairs, Summer festivals and tons of free, live music in this completely walkable, cute place.
Wild Things
San Juan Island is famous for its excellent whale and wildlife watching. The whale watch park with its iconic lighthouse is one of the best places to see Orcas from land on earth. The isle has more nesting Bald Eagle couples per shoreline than any other county in Washington State. Go birding, watch seals, sea lions and otters from shore and foxes and bunnies frolic on the prairie. Please always stay at least 75 feet away and keep the pup on the leash.
Bucket List Adventures
Take a wild ride on an open zodiac to go see Orcas and Humpbacks and Greys. Take a flight lesson around the nearest volcano. Explore the Salish Sea at sunset by kayak and glide through the wonderous bioluminescence. Shuck your own oysters at the beach. Charter a 1939 classic schooner and its experienced crew and have a blast.