The San Juan Islands are a beautiful place to be any time of year, but the holidays are one of the best times to come. If you don’t want to fuss with a big complicated dinner or want to start new traditions with your family, this is the place. The weather makes for many cozy moments around the fire, perfect for conversation, crafts, and games. While cold walks make you appreciate each other just a little more. Come stay at the Harrison House Suites or Tucker House Inn for your family Thanksgiving holiday.
Cold yet Stunning Beaches
Ever dreamt of having a whole beach to yourself while listening to the quiet crash of waves? In November on San Juan Island that is entirely possible, but be prepared to bundle up! Our beaches during the winter are much less frequented but are just as beautiful. As long as you’re ready for the weather, head out to South Beach and breath in the fresh crisp sea air as you walk along the waterline of a deserted beach. This is the perfect opportunity to then get back to your suite and cuddle up by the fire or take a relaxing hot bath.
Coho Restaurant’s Delicious Food
Coho Restaurant serves a Thanksgiving Dinner feast! They are open from 3 pm to 9 pm on November 28th with a traditional menu. The best part? You don’t have to cook! Come and let Coho Restaurant’s Chefs cook a memorable Thanksgiving meal with all of the fixings for you and your family. You will go back to your suite feeling full and satisfied, and without one dish to clean. Thanksgiving is all about being with family and at Coho Restaurant they know how to make you feel right at home.
A Home Away from Home Suite or Cottage
San Juan Island Inn Collection suites and cottages are a perfect spot for your family to enjoy the holiday. Plus, if you do decide to tackle that turkey, we’re prepared! The perfect family suite is our San Juan Suite. It has 3 bedrooms, two baths, two sleeper sofas, a large eat-in kitchen, and a beautiful formal dining room perfect for a Thanksgiving meal. Plus you get a lovely homemade breakfast the next morning delivered to your suite! If you are coming with a smaller group, there are many other suites and cottages at the Tucker House Inn with kitchens or kitchenettes so you can prepare your own Thanksgiving dinner.
Fresh Local Food
Our island is filled with farms just outside of Friday Harbor, and whatever this island doesn’t have to offer, others do. Head to the co-op or Kings for some local goodies! There is fresh produce from all over the islands, locally made spices, salts, chai, sauces, and anything else you can think of. To go with dinner grab some wine or cider from our three local producers; San Juan Vineyards, Madrone Cellars, and Orcas Project.
Exciting Local Events
If you’re thinking of a winter getaway or just a holiday getaway there are quite a few island festivities that you won’t want to miss out on.
On the 28th, if you don’t feel like cooking or prefer a more laid back local Thanksgiving dinner, consider joining the community’s Thanksgiving celebration. This is San Juan Islands way of getting everyone together over the holiday! Dinner is by donation only and you are always welcome to bring your own pie to share. The community Thanksgiving dinner now in its 21st season welcomes one and all; the more the merrier!
On the 23rd, Island Haven Animal Sanctuary is celebrating their 3rd annual Thanks “Living” festival. Stop by the farm for hot drinks and delicious homemade plant-based food. Feed the turkeys and enjoy a free tour of the farm! Donations are always appreciated but never required.
On the 30th take part in the annual Island Lights Festival! Head to the Whale Museum at 3:30 for Holiday Crafts and treats, then at 5:00 make your way to the roundabout for the tree lighting! Afterwards at Brickworks there will be homemade hot apple cider and mac and cheese as well as pictures with Santa. It is a fun-filled evening to welcome the holidays to our little island
Come get a feel for our island in the off-season while spending quality time with your family. We promise the Harrison House Suites and Tucker House Inn are all you need to feel at home on your vacation during this special time of year.
