The San Juan Islands sit on the Puget Sound, between Canada and northwest Washington. They enjoy a mild climate throughout the year. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit, and fall offers cooler temperatures that make sea kayaking less enjoyable. This is the best time to enjoy all the outdoor activities on the island. Here are some tips for visiting San Juan Island. If you plan on renting a kayak, check out our tips. Listed below are some of the most popular activities to enjoy on San Juan Island.
First, don’t forget to try the local wines. Wine tastings in the area are also highly recommended. You can enjoy tasting flights of wines from local wineries while you’re on the island. At the Friday Harbor House on San Juan Island, you can attend a Winemaker Dinner with Two Vintners and Covington Cellars. The meal includes seven courses and paired wines. You can even order Dungeness crab fritters as a snack!
There are three islands to visit while you’re on the island. The largest one is Friday Harbor, where all of the action happens. From there, you can find the most restaurants, bars, shopping, groceries, and gas. Those without a vehicle should book accommodations in Friday Harbor, as it tends to be busy during the day, but is usually quiet before 9pm. A day pass will also get you around the island, so you can explore it at your own pace.
Another popular activity on San Juan Island is whale watching. You can catch a glimpse of killer whales from the shore, including Orcas. The island also has a winery and a small historical museum. You can also visit the English and American Camps, where the famous pig war took place. At the same time, you can enjoy a spa. All of these activities are ideal for families. The island also has a variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities.
The Lummi Arts Festival is a great way to experience the indigenous culture on San Juan Island. The festival features several events, including the Lummi Arts Festival, where local artists display their work and share their stories with other visitors. The festival also features an exhibit of works by Lummi Nation and Turtle Mountain Chippewa artists at the Friday Harbor House. You’ll find beautiful beadwork, leatherwork, and silverwork among other works of art.
There are a few beaches on the island, including Orcas, which is home to one of the best kayaking schools in the state. Orcas has miles of trails and a recreational lake, and there are several campgrounds. Located in San Juan, Orcas is also home to the island’s most famous hotel, the vintage 1906 Rosario Resort & Spa. You’ll learn about this fascinating history in the museum. And don’t forget to spend the night in a luxurious hotel.
Another attraction to consider when visiting San Juan Island is a bike ride. The island is renowned for its excellent cycling trails. Getting around on two wheels is a great way to see the island, and the bicycle tour can be combined with a cycling tour. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the historic Hotel de Haro, which has been standing since 1886. There is also the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park, which features more than 125 sculptures, set in a 19-acre natural environment. A visit to Roche Harbor will also allow you to sample some local cuisine.