San Juan Island sits in the northwest corner of Washington state, just across the water from Canada. Located three hours north of Seattle by car and ferry, San Juan Island hosts visitors from around the world. It is one of four islands in the San Juan Island archipelago served by the Washington State Ferry system.
Things To Do
Start your day on the island with donuts and coffee at the Lime Kiln Cafe. If the weather is nice, snag an outdoor table. Lime Kiln Cafe’s waterfront location makes it the perfect place to watch boats come and go at Roche Harbor.
There are ample activities at Roche Harbor, so after breakfast spend some time strolling around the historic property, and visit the Roche Harbor Sculpture Park. This quiet greenspace is dotted with over 120 sculptures by Northwest artists. $5 donations for adult visitors are appreciated (children and dogs are free).
If you’re visiting San Juan Island on a first or third Saturday during March, or any Saturday from April through October, head to the town of Friday Harbor mid-morning to explore the local farmer’s market. Here you’ll find local produce, baked goods and artwork from local makers. Stock up on some island treats to take home.
For lunch, pick up to-go sandwiches from Spring Street Deli on Friday Harbor’s main street, and drive to Lime Kiln Point State Park for a picnic. Here you’ll find yourself at the heart of the whale trail — keep an eye out for orca whales and other wildlife. The San Juan Islands are a premier destination for whale watching. Even if you aren’t lucky with a whale sighting, the scenery at Lime Kiln is breathtaking so be sure to spend some time hiking around. Lime Kiln has 1.6 miles of well-marked hiking trails that hug the coastline, ending at a picturesque lighthouse. A Washington State Park Discover Pass or parking fee is required.
If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, head back into Friday Harbor and stop at the Crow’s Nest Coffee Shoppe on Spring Street. In town you’ll find plenty of shops to browse. Pop into Griffin Bay Bookstore and Sandpebble, both also located on Spring Street.
San Juan Island Brewing Company is a great place for a casual, fun dinner. Heated tents and ample outdoor seating make this a perfect spot to enjoy a spring evening. I recommend a pizza or the CBJ burger.
Start your Sunday with coffee and a breakfast sandwich to-go at Salty Fox Coffee, right across from the ferry dock. The walk-up window makes ordering easy. Find a table outside or a bench near the ferry dock to enjoy your breakfast and the quiet morning hours in town.
Next, drive to San Juan Island National Historic Park for a long walk along South Beach. While some of the park facilities are currently closed due to the global pandemic, the beach and cliff hiking trails are open.
After hiking and exploring the park a visit to the Whale Museum. is a great way to learn more about San Juan Island’s most famous residents and the Salish Sea ecosystem.
To wrap up your visit to San Juan Island, splurge on dinner at Duck Soup. Duck Soup is a charming spot tucked in the woods in the middle of the island. You won’t be disappointed with the food and cozy atmosphere. (Reservations recommended.)
Where To Stay
San Juan Island has a variety of boutique hotels and vacation rentals. For a glamping experience, consider staying in a cozy yurt or cabin at Lakedale Resort. To experience island history and a bit of luxury, book a historic hotel room at Roche Harbor Resort.
How To Get To San Juan Island
San Juan Island can only be accessed by boat or plane. The island is serviced by Washington State Ferries. To arrive by ferry, make a reservation in advance for the Anacortes to Friday Harbor route. For a scenic adventure, fly to the San Juan Islands from Seattle with Kenmore Air.
The San Juan Islands have been on my bucket list for years, but I need some help in deciding the best way to experience them. What is recommended for my first visit? Should I charter a boat and spend a week going from island to island? Or would flying to San Juan Island from the mainland and sharing a week between a hotels in Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor be a better way to go? What do you recommend?
If you have a week I recommend taking the ferry out of Anacortes. Then you have the ultimate flexibility to go wherever you want. I would go mid week to mid week to avoid long ferry lines.
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