Gorgeous San Juan Island, surrounded by the glistening Salish Sea, usually has extremely pleasant, average summer temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s with an excellent chance of having an incredible time. In the last few years though we have been experiencing heat waves just like the rest of the country.

Here are our 5 favorite ways to escape the summer heat on the isle:

1) Lounge by the Pool

The Earthbox Inn & Spa in the heart of Friday Harbor offers A/C in most of their room styles and is the only hotel on the isle with an indoor pool, jacuzzi and exercise room and a lovely outdoor patio with comfy chairs, umbrellas and lots of flowers to enjoy your summer novel.

2) Explore the Arts

The renowned San Juan Islands Museum of Art is known for its timely exhibitions centering around the Pacific Northwest. All three galleries are air-conditioned. Don’t miss the free Family Art Days on Saturdays in their beautiful, shady orchard.

3) Go on a guided Whale Watching Tour

It’s always 10-15 degrees colder out at sea. Treat yourself to a whale watching tour with San Juan Safaris during the hottest part of the day. Their fast double decker Osprey is not only San Juan Island's largest whale watching boat, Osprey also features a galley with grab and go items, concession snacks, a variety of soda, beer, wine, coffee, water and more for sale.

4) Dine at the Waterfront

Downriggers features a large wrap around deck overlooking the harbor. Their spacious dining room and bar are comfortably air-conditioned. Delight in delectable Pacific Northwest cuisine and handmade cocktails while watching the sailboats bob in the water.

5) Hang at the Beach

The woods come all the way down to the beach at crescent shaped Deadman Bay by the whale watching park. Bring a picnic, watch for whales, go kayaking or for a refreshing dip in the chilly, clear Salish Sea.