Holiday shopping in the cute coastal town of Friday Harbor is our absolute favorite. Besides the farmer’s market, holiday fairs and tons of delightful shops, there are nine galleries and about 30 eateries in walking distance to the ferry landing. May your gift buying be pleasantly interrupted by dessert breaks, wine tastings, interludes of delectable appetizers and maybe even a massage at the Spa at Earthbox, where you get to use their heated pool and hot tub on the day you have an appointment. Can you say “relaxed”?

The Gift of Romance

Make someone’s dream come true with a lodging certificate to one of the romantic suites at the charming, historic Bird Rock Hotel in the heart of Friday Harbor. May we suggest the Marrowstone Suite with gas fireplace and private outdoor hot tub or the San Juan Suite with harbor view, aerated tub and private balcony? Don’t forget to add a bottle of bubbly in the room upon arrival.

The Gift of Island Adventure

Add a gift certificate to a guided whale watching tour with San Juan Safaris on one of their three, fun boats, for a chance to observe Orcas, Humpbacks, Greys, sea lions, Bald eagles and other wildlife, native to the pristine Salish Sea.

The Gift of Generosity

Adopt an Orca from the Friday Harbor Whale Museum and get your kid involved in stewardship of her sea and land. A family adoption of $60 per year includes such cool things as a personalized adoption certificate with photo of your whale, an informational booklet about the Southern Resident Orcas, subscription to the newsletter, patches, bumper stickers and a one-year Whale Museum membership for the entire family.

Island-made

The Pelindaba Lavender Friday Harbor store offers over 300 ways to lavender. Find everything purple here for personal care, household, therapy, pets, décor and lavender as a culinary herb. The store features unique lavender themed art by local artists.

Island Spirits 

With a distillery, a brewery, two cideries and quite a few vineyards right here on San Juan, spirits of the isle make a not only fabulous but distinctive souvenir for all occasions.

Island Art

Friday Harbor and San Juan Island are rich in history, culture and art. Experience the excellently curated art museum, explore native carvings, whimsical pottery and art collectives doubling as healing centers. Meander the 20-acre art garden on the north end of the isle at sunset and remember when you are buying from an artist you are buying a piece of a heart, a piece of a soul, a small piece of somebody else’s life.