Spring will soon be in the air, which means that Friday Harbor will once again be bustling with outdoor activity as the sun shines brighter and flowers start to blossom. With so many outdoor activities to participate in on San Juan Island, your stay at the Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites will be full of beautiful adventures. So, get ready to take a breath of fresh, Pacific air and participate in these Friday Harbor activities fit for this year’s Spring Break.
1. Go for a Bike Ride
The 32-mile bike ride that circles the island offers a cycling paradise for the avid pedaler. The spectacular views that will arise during your ride are unparalleled. The loop also offers many chances to spot wildlife, such as foxes, rabbits, and a variety of birdlife as you traverse through farmlands and lakes, forests and meadows, and rolling hills that crest atop bluffs with expansive water vistas. For a more leisurely pedal from town, cycle the 6 mile Pear Point peninsula.
2. Picnic
The beautiful beaches and spectacular vistas on the island offer a variety of atmospheres for your afternoon picnic. From quiet coves and inlets to grassy fields atop the highest point on the island, your picnic location will host beautiful views regardless. We’ll even pack you a personalized picnic lunch for your to take on your adventure!
3. Whale Watch
There are always amazing marine plants and animals to see around the islands! Luckily we have some amazing tour operators who help turn that into a reality for your family. Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching is one of the companies that run tours throughout the spring. It’s truly an experience you don’t want to miss out on, friendly for the whole family!
4. Go Island Hopping
The San Juan archipelago offers different experiences on each of the islands. Lopez and Orcas Islands are especially popular for day trips. While keeping Friday Harbor as your main base, island hop on the inter-island ferry to see what these other islands have to offer!
5. Visit the Lavender Farm
The Pelindaba Lavender Farm is a gorgeous expanse of purple when in blossom. Tour the farm and learn how lavender is distilled and the many uses for the oil — therapeutic, household, and personal — for people to pets. Purchase lavender products made at the farm to take home, from personal fragrances to hair care products.
6. Take a Scenic Drive
The Scenic Byway on San Juan Island will take you in a loop around the 55-square-mile island. Magnificent vistas are waiting to be seen as you cruise at your own pace and take in all the island has to offer. Roll the windows down and let the breeze run through your hair. Ask our concierge for our scenic tour guide so you don’t miss any sights or island curiosities.
7. Visit the Sculpture Garden at Westcott Bay Reserve
The sculpture garden at Westcott Bay Reserve is an outdoor art park with 150 pieces surrounded by trails and paths that wander throughout the 20-acre site. Located right by the entrance to Roche Harbor, this park is dog-friendly, and on some mornings, deer even wander among the sculptures. The creativity is worth exploring!
8. Shop & Visit Art Galleries
The town of Friday Harbor has restaurants, boutiques, gift shops, and art galleries that are perfect for perusing on a nice spring day. Enjoy an espresso or glass of wine at an outdoor cafe and savor all the Friday Harbor activities you participated in.
9. Explore the Beach
There are a variety of sandy and driftwood expanses along the shores of San Juan Island. Pebble stretches and tucked-away coves await exploration. South Beach, looking out toward the Olympic Mountains, is another spring destination, with fire pits fit for nighttime spring gatherings.
More to do in the Spring!
There are so many Friday Harbor activities to enjoy in the springtime. We just highlighted a few, but for a more in-depth list of what the San Juan Islands have to offer, download our free vacation guide.
