Whether you love shellfish or are simply interested in bird watching, there are many ways to spend your time in San Juan Island. There are plenty of opportunities for shellfishing and oyster shucking. Other activities include picnicking, wildlife watching, and listening to the gentle waves. Regardless of your preference, San Juan Island will definitely be a great place to relax after a long day at work. We recommend spending some time in Friday Harbor, where you can enjoy live music and local art.
To enjoy the scenic views of the sea, take a walk on the South Beach Trail. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains as well as the historic Cattle Point Lighthouse. For a more active adventure, try taking a whale watching tour. You’ll likely spot killer whales regularly from the shore. From the west side of the island, head to Lime Kiln Park, which also has an old lighthouse.
After a day at the beach, head up to the Cattle Point Light House and see a 360-degree view of the island. At American Camp, you’ll find a wildlife interpretive center and historic barracks. While there, be sure to keep an eye out for Bald Eagles, otters, seals, and sea lions. You’ll have plenty of time to explore this beautiful island.
If you don’t have a car, you’ll find plenty of public transportation. If you are staying somewhere that is near public transportation, try staying in Friday Harbor. It’s convenient and has many hotels. And if you’re not a car owner, check out the Snug Harbor Resort and Lakedale Resort. Whether you’re traveling by car or renting a car, you’ll find that San Juan Island has something to offer everyone.
Summer is a popular time to visit the islands. You’ll find the weather milder here than in Western Washington. The best time to visit is between May and September, when you can see orcas. You can take a seaplane or a wheeled-plane from Seattle to San Juan Island. However, the most common way to travel to the islands is by car and ferry. You’ll have plenty of fun on the island, including sea kayaking.
A trip to San Juan Island wouldn’t be complete without exploring its history. From miles of farmland to stretches of forest, the island is home to plenty of interesting history. English and American encampments can be found here, and you can tour them while staying in a historic campground. While staying on San Juan Island is a great way to get acquainted with the island’s history, the neighboring islands are also worth seeing.
Orcas Island is the second most visited island, and has a similar vibe but fewer tourists. You can take a free ferry from San Juan to Orcas or vice-versa. You can also take the ferry to the mainland from Orcas Island. If you have time, you can take the free eastbound ferry. You’ll love the view of the San Juan Islands from the rocky cliffs. For those who don’t want to hike, the island has hiking trails and several campgrounds.