Every time we welcome new visitors to the Northwest, they comment on the untouched beauty, the fresh air, and the pristine quiet—then they learn about the exciting and invigorating things to do in the San Juan Islands during their stay—and the deal is sealed. The San Juan Islands are one of the best places in the world for a memorable and unique getaway. From long nature hikes and bike rides to fresh, shucked oysters and wine tasting, everything is just at your fingertips when you stay in the San Juan Islands.
In our opinion, San Juan Island is the best place to make your home base. From here, you can easily hop on the ferry to reach the other nearby popular islands like Orcas and Lopez. As one of the best San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts, our priority is creating a comfortable and cozy space for you to land after exploring all the best things to do in the San Juan Islands. You’ll be pampered with a scratch-made breakfast each morning of your stay, and it arrives hot and fresh at the door of your guest suite! We have kayaks and bicycles available to borrow during your stay, and our concierge service is here around the clock for questions, reservations, and advice.
Not all San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts offer such an extensive list of complimentary amenities; get your lodging on the books and join us in the San Juan Islands this year!
The Top Things to do in the San Juan Islands in 2023
Recently, Travel + Leisure published a feature on all of the best things to do in the San Juan Islands, and they included our lodging property as one of the best San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts. Just another sign to start planning your trip to the Northwest!
Here are the best things to do in the San Juan Islands this year:
- Whale Watching: Witnessing whales in their natural habitat—either by boat or from the shore—is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales frequent the waters around San Juan Island year-round. A popular spot to whale watch is Lime Kiln Point State Park, a scenic drive from our San Juan Island Bed and Breakfast. Add a visit to the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor to your itinerary to learn more about these beautiful creatures and the Salish Sea.
- Kayaking Tours: For those who hope to catch the whale tails by boat, there’s a lovely selection of local companies offering kayaking tours. We suggest Outdoor Odysseys, Crystal Seas Kayaks, San Juan Outfitters, Discover Sea Kayaks, and Sea Quest.
- Head to Roche Harbor: This cozy community on the northwest corner of San Juan Island offers dining opportunities overlooking the tranquil bay, a sailboat-packed marina to explore, and a ten-mile trail system that connects to Mt. Young and American Camp.
- Westcott Bay Shellfish Co.: This working shellfish farm is one of the best things to do in the San Juan Islands year-round! Get an inside look at the production and then pop into The Net Shed for a lunch of fresh-shucked beauties, steamed mussels, and a lovely wine list.
- Wine Tasting at San Juan Vineyards: On your way back from a fresh seafood lunch, stop by this local winery offering tastes of their cooler climate wines from the Puget Sound AVA. You’ll also find Madrone Cellars in Friday Harbor pouring delightful wine tastings.
- San Juan Island Sculpture Park: Another of our favorite things to do in the San Juan Islands is explore the local art installations at the Sculpture Park or head to the San Juan Island Museum of Art, which showcases local and international artists.
- San Juan Island Brewing: Grab a much deserved cold one at this local brewery just a few minutes from our Inn.
- Dining at Friday Harbor Restaurants: After all of your outdoor adventures, it’s time to refuel! You’ll have a great selection of Friday Harbor restaurants, but you really must join us for at least one night of your stay at Coho Restaurant—our on-site farm-to-table dining space.
- Island Hopping Adventures: One of the best things to do in the San Juan Islands is to check out the neighboring island communities. Orcas and Lopez Island are our favorites for day trips from our San Juan Island Bed and Breakfast. You’ll enjoy a quick and easy ferry ride and see what the other islands have to offer.
- Catch the Sunset: One of the best places to head for the golden hour is American Camp and the Cattle Point Lighthouse. You’ll take in stunning views and have plenty of snapshots to update your Instagram feed.
Stay at the One of the Best San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts
The main element that sets our Friday Harbor Bed and Breakfast apart from other San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts is our unique options! We can accommodate couples for a romantic getaway in intimate suites, while also welcoming families and those traveling with furry friends to enjoy a vacation as well. The diverse layout of our multi-room suites offers privacy for groups and many have full kitchens to prepare lunches or dinners in the comfort of your own room,
Another reason we’re the best option of the San Juan Island Bed and Breakfasts is for our 24/7 concierge service and warm, welcoming staff members. We couldn’t do what we do without them! Before you start filling up your itinerary with all the best things to do in the San Juan Islands, get your lodging on the books today!
