You are ready to go, the hotel is booked, the flight is booked, the days are blocked off at work, now all you need to do is figure out all the things to do on San Juan Island.
Ready to hit the ground running? Let’s find out where to go now!
Amazing Things to Do On San Juan Island
There will always be something else to find or something else to do, but these will hit a widespread of many beauties the islands have to offer.
When going on vacation you can never have too many travel ideas
1. Friday Harbor
Coincidently enough, the location of the ferry lands is an attraction itself! Only about a quarter-mile in size, there is a huge number of stops to be made.
Everything from restaurants to art galleries the first stop is primed and loaded to get your stay going right away.
A well-known harbor seal, Popeye, is known to visit onlookers from time to time. Keep an eye out for her!
2. Whale Watching
With one of the greatest locations on the planet, one can not travel to the islands and not watch the whales!
Lime Kiln Point has been considered one of the greatest places in the world to watch whales from a land-based facility. The best times for viewing being between May and September.
The 41-acre day-use area also has light hiking available and there is some access for boat usage.
3. The Harbor
Amongst the important sights to take in at Roche Harbor is the Lime Kiln Cafe.
The donuts served are not the only items to be enjoyed in the harbor. Roche Harbor is home to a multitude of bars, grills, and world-renowned resorts.
The marina is considered one of the greatest in the western world.
4. Take to the Trails
For those looking for an outdoor adventure, there is an immense amount of natural beauty to be experienced through the various “camps” found around the San Juan Islands.
You can be assured no matter your experience level you will be able to find a trail that can match your ability.
- Young Hill – Found at English Camp
- Wescott Bay – Found at English Camp and Wescott Bay Shellfish
- South Beach Found at American Camp
- Jackle’s Lagoon – Found in San Juan National Historical Park
The hiking is not limited to these few selections and you can find more about further trails here.
5. The Camps
Many of the trails begin at two major camps, American and English. But aside from hiking the trails the camp themselves can be explored and admired.
At nearly 100 acres in size, American Camp is a natural playground that you could easily lose more than just a day in. The range of wildlife and a historic lighthouse highlight these trails.
Very different from the other, English Camp remains fairly built-up still. It holds a different type of beauty within it. There are preserved barracks as well as a traditional English garden to be explored.
6. Lighthouse Lookout
A simple lantern lookout first established in 1888 the Cattle Point Lighthouse now stands a bit larger as a landmark. The lighthouse was built in 1935
It owes its name to the Hudson’s Bay Company. After a ranch was built near the southern end of the island here in 1853 cattle began to immerge onto the land. With it being their origin point, so it was named Cattle Point.
The lighthouse can be found overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca at the meeting point of the San Juan Channel and the Haro Straits.
7. Afterglow Vista
It has been said to look more like something out of a fantasy story than a grave. This memorial is the resting place of John S. McMillin the owner of Washington Lime and well-known mason during his life.
The vista is another site located in the bustling Friday Harbor.
8. Sculpture Park
Taking a deeper look into the area near Roche Harbor you can find your way to the Sculpture Park.
Over 150 artists are featured in this 20-acre park. Not only are the works of these artists showcased but also the Wescott Bay and a collection of hiking trails as well.
Be sure to stop at the Friendship Totem before leaving!
9. Duck Soup
The original farm-to-table before farm-to-table was the thing to be. Duck Soup has been in operation for nearly 50 years now and remains a staple of rustic charm and dining on San Juan Island.
Changing seasonally, all items on the menu are sourced locally through farms directly or the farmers market. Additional items are foraged on the island and from the waters.
When you eat at Duck Soup you truly do know exactly where all of your food is coming from.
10. A Flowery Type of Person
If you are traveling during July there is the chance that you will get to take part in the Lavender Festival at the Pelindaba Lavender Farm. It takes place on the 20th & 21st.
Even if you happen to miss those dates the farm is worth a stop. Located near the center of the island it is a 25-acre farm, home to 50 different types of the flower.
11. Fisherman’s Dream
For those that enjoy fishing the perfect spot is Sportsman’s Lake. It is located a short distance from Friday Harbor and is available for use all year round.
Most resorts can help with any needs, from license to equipment. Aside from that, also offering guided tours of the fishing locations as well. Be sure to check what the booking guidelines are in advance.
12. Harbor House
Brunch is a luxury that no one would turn down. What is better is that Harbor House will offer it every day and has a very strong reputation surrounding it.
A beautiful view of the channel is offered during the brunch service, making it all that much better.
13. The Vineyards
Traveling in either June or September you would be able to catch the Barrel Tasting and Harvest Festival, respectively.
Otherwise, take to the San Juan Vineyards tasting room which is open every day of the week from spring until closing in the fall.
The Grand Island Adventure
We have found a lot of things to do on San Juan island and now the adventure you have booked will be nothing short of a success!
There will always be new things to find once you reach your destination but if you come prepared with a plan the adventure has a map to run behind.
Find some fun with these adventure ideas? Keep reading the blog! Remember to follow us on social media, the links can be found at the top of any page!
