Something that we have in abundance on the San Juan Islands are scenic vistas, and the Cattle Point Lighthouse is a particularly picturesque lookout area—with views stretching out to the Olympic and Cascade Mountains and the surrounding islands. The south side of San Juan Island has a striking landscape with rolling golden hills of prairie grasslands and impressive bluffs overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca. You’ll find stretches of rocky beaches and sandy coves.
This end of the island is also where you’ll find American Camp, a San Juan Island National Historical Park with old military buildings from the days of the Pig War dispute (1859-1872). An easy to moderate 7.5-mile hike begins at American Camp and includes Mount Finlayson and the Cattle Point Lighthouse. You’ll also find plenty of shorter walks and beach access for those looking for a more leisurely adventure.
As a guest at our San Juan Island Bed and Breakfast, you won’t be far from the outdoor adventures at the Cattle Point Lighthouse; it’s either 20 minutes by car or about an hour by bike out to this beautiful nature reserve. Our Inn Collection offers every comfort needed for a relaxing stay. After a long day on the trails, there’s no better place to rest your tired muscles and put your feet up with a much-earned glass of wine. Each of our guest rooms and suites is outfitted with rejuvenation in mind.
Head over to our booking calendar and make your reservations today!
Explore the Area Around Cattle Point Lighthouse
You could easily spend most of the day exploring the island’s south end, from American Camp and the Cattle Point Lighthouse to beachcombing and hiking—also, it’s an especially beautiful place for a picnic! Let our innkeepers know ahead of time, and we can pack up a lovely lunch or snack spread for you to take along with you.
Here are our favorite things to do near Cattle Point Lighthouse on the south side of San Juan:
- First, head to American Camp and begin with the 1.25-mile self-guided history foot trail starting at the parking lot. You’ll follow along with the story of the military camp and the history of the Pig War dispute.
- You’ll find some fantastic birdwatching along the Jakle’s Lagoon Trail, which is an easy 1.5 miles long.
- The Mt. Finlayson Trail is a 3-mile loop leading you to the top of Mt. Finlayson, where you’ll see some of the most beautiful and sweeping views of Mt. Baker, Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and British Columbia. From here, you’ll have access to a few side trails that lead down to the Lagoons.
- The South Beach walk is about two miles long and packed with natural treasures for great tide pooling and beach combing. Stroll along the shoreline of ancient rocks and driftwood; you never know what fun things you’ll come across.
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The Cattle Point Lighthouse day use interpretive area includes parking, beach access, hiking trails, and a picnic area with a shelter and restroom. Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife, including eagles and other birds of prey.
Relaxing Lodging at our San Juan Island B&B
The Four Winds king guest room is one of the best suites for a relaxing and romantic getaway for two. You’ll find amenities like a remote-controlled fireplace, a French door partitioned bedroom with a feather-topped king bed, and a lovely separate sitting area. Four Winds also has a private balcony, vaulted ceilings, a spacious private bath with the largest two-person jetted bathtub (pictured above), and a separate shower. This room is a popular choice for couples looking to visit a Bed and Breakfast in Friday Harbor.
For those who love spending the day outdoors exploring our attractions like the Cattle Point Lighthouse, this suite is such a welcome reprieve after adventures in the fresh air. Start planning your next getaway to San Juan Island and book your room today!
