If this last year taught us anything, it is that the time is now. Tell the people you love - now. Go on that bucket list Orca Whale Watching tour - now. Have the romantic dinner with fancy cocktails on the Friday Harbor waterfront - now. If this is your first or fortieth time on gorgeous San Juan Island, treat yourself to a visit to all the iconic places. Soak up Summer on San Juan Island - now.
Getting Here
San Juan Island is only a 45 minute scenic seaplane flight from Seattle with Kenmore Air. Or drive to Anacortes and take the Washington State Ferry to Friday Harbor. You may leave your car and walk on the ferry. If you bring your car, reservations are highly recommended.
Where to Stay
Historic Bird Rock Hotel, a block from the ferry dock, offers 15 unique rooms, ranging from harbor view suites with jetted tubs or private outdoor hot tubs, to standard queens and small European style rooms with detached bathrooms. The hotel is run remotely this season. Staff is available via text and phone and the lobby is stocked with amenities and extras. They provide complimentary beach cruiser bikes to check out.
Day 1
Breakfast at Cynthia’s Bistro
Sit in Cynthia’s lovely, shady garden, while enjoying an Avocado Breakfast Boat or a freshly baked chocolate croissant, before heading over to the farmer’s market to browse island made souvenirs and goodies.
Explore American Camp
Head south to American Camp National Historical Park. You could spent days hiking and exploring here. Stop by the visitor’s center and historic barracks to learn about the isle turbulent time being occupied by both, American and English military. Head to Grandma’s Cove for a rare chance to skinny dip in the mighty Pacific Ocean. Take a stroll on South Beach, San Juan Island’s longest beach and check out the Cattle Point Lighthouse on the very southern tip of the isle.
Lunch at Westcott Bay Seafood Farm
Chuck your own oysters on the beautiful shores of this working farm. Enjoy a glass of beer or wine with island made salads, cheeses and charcuterie and soak in the calm view. Please make lunch reservations.
Explore English Camp
Find nearby English Camp National Historical Park on serene, wooded Griffin Bay, and learn about the plights and pleasures of the English army in the 19th century. Find officer’s grave’s, a formal English garden, and an extremely rewarding, 1.5 mile hike to the top of Mt Young.
San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
After all that history, make room for some contemporary art at the 20 acres sculpture garden by Roche Harbor. Find over 100 sculptures, poems and whimsical contraptions along five trails through woods, along the bay and around a natural lake. There are tons of fun things to do for kiddos and puppies are welcome too.
Dinner at McMillens in Roche Harbor
Stroll the vender lined streets of Historic Roche Harbor Resort before treating yourself to one of the finest dining experiences there is at fancy McMillens. Don’t miss the 60 day aged prime grade rib eye and the pig war martini. Reservations are a must.
Shakespeare under the Stars
At 8:00pm sharp (no late comers), at 1062 Wold Road, Island Stage Left will delight with Shakespeare’s classic “Much Ado About Nothing”. Bring a blanket. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated.
Day 2
Breakfast at the Bean Café
Have a bagel with lox and extremely good coffee at the Bean by the ferry lanes. Stock up on owner Eric’s smoked sea salt caramels while here.
Massage at the Spa at Earthbox
This cute spa offers massages, facials and sugaring by deeply caring practitioners. The Open Sky signature massages includes hot stone work and a mini facial. Ahhhhhh. Reservations are a must.
Lunch at Friday’s Crabhouse
This iconic open air restaurant overlooking the harbor serves everything seafood, as well as excellent drinks, ice cream, hot dogs and more. Indulge in fresh, local Dungeness crab cakes and grilled wild prawns. Their Vodka Oyster shooters are to die for.
Whale Watching Tour with San Juan Safaris
Choose between the classic four hour whale watching tour on a larger boat or the three hour thrilling ride on their speedy zodiac, complete with exposure suits and life vests. Either way San Juan Safaris’ knowledgeable naturalist will share everything there is to know about the Salish Sea. On the list of possible sightings are: Orca whales, Humpbacks, Greys, Porpoises, dolphins, sea lions, seals, Bald Eagles and exotic animals on an abandoned island. Reservations are a must.
Dinner at Downriggers on the Waterfront
Right above San Juan Safaris’ office you’ll find Downriggers with its vast outdoor deck overlooking Friday’s harbor. Indulge in the last Quarantini of the year, the Westcott Bay Clams and/or the Halibut Fish & Chips, but do leave room for the Pot de Crème. It’s worth it. Reservations are highly recommended.
Sunset at the Whale Watch Park
The most iconic image of San Juan Island must be the Lime Kiln Lighthouse at the whale watch park - one of the best places to see Orcas from land in the world. Often at sunset the park has very few visitors. Check out the light house, the whale watching platforms, grab a picnic table and just sit and listen to the waves and the birds. It will make you feel whole.
