The San Juan Islands are beautiful any time of year, and winter is no exception. During the cooler months, you will still find plenty of exciting things to do in the San Juan Islands, from quiet outdoor adventures to cozy indoor experiences. Summer is popular for hiking, whale watching, and kayaking, and those classic San Juan activities are a big draw. But winter has its own charm that’s worth experiencing, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.
There’s no need to let the forecast keep you away, either. The islands rarely see much snow, and thanks to the rainshadow effect, the San Juan Islands are often drier than many other spots around the Puget Sound. It all adds up to a surprisingly delightful San Juan Islands vacation in the winter months. Even on the chilliest or rainiest days, you will find plenty of things to do in the San Juan Islands, especially around Friday Harbor.
Spend an afternoon shopping in downtown Friday Harbor, warm up with a cozy cup of coffee or tea at a local cafe, then explore the fascinating exhibits at the Whale Museum and learn more about the resident orcas that make the San Juan Islands so special. Get out for a day in nature on local hiking trails and beaches, and let the crisp, island air replenish you. It is easy to fill a day with relaxed San Juan activities, and when you are ready to unwind, you can simply curl up with a good book by the fire or slip into a soothing hot tub under the stars at our elegant lodging in Friday Harbor.
In addition to being close to the best things to do in the San Juan Islands this winter, our unique Friday Harbor lodging provides an inviting home base with luxurious guest rooms, thoughtful amenities, and exquisite food. From the moment you arrive, you will experience the warm, attentive hospitality you crave from high-end Friday Harbor lodging. We also offer a full concierge service throughout your stay, making planning your San Juan Islands vacation easier and more enjoyable than ever. Let us help you discover the most memorable things to do in Friday Harbor, then return to a comfortable room and a peaceful night of rest. Reserve your stay today.
7 Best Things to Do in the San Juan Islands This Winter
Winter in the Pacific Northwest feels a little magical, and it is a wonderful time to experience the many things to do in the San Juan Islands. Whether you are craving a quiet escape from everyday stress or planning a bit of adventure on the water and trails, you will find plenty to love during your San Juan Islands vacation.
Friday Harbor is at the heart of it all, filled with inviting boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and museums, and it is just a short walk from our Friday Harbor lodging. If you are ready to get outside and soak in the natural beauty the San Juan Islands are known for, you will have plenty of options to consider, no matter the season. Below is a curated list of some of our favorite things to do on San Juan Island this winter.
- If you want to learn more about the whales that call the Salish Sea and Puget Sound home, spend some time at the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor. It is one of our favorite things to do in the San Juan Islands, especially on a rainy day. It is a fascinating place to explore the history of local whales and ongoing conservation efforts.
- Another of our favorite things to do in the San Juan Islands in winter is a visit to the San Juan Island Museum of Art. The museum highlights local artists along with thoughtfully curated works from around the world. Afterward, give yourself time to wander through nearby art galleries, including Friday Harbor Atelier, Waterworks Gallery, Harbor Song Art Gallery, Friday Harbor Gallery, and Arctic Raven Gallery.
- Browse the charming boutiques in downtown Friday Harbor and pick up a few special finds. You will discover everything from independent bookstores to gift shops filled with locally made goods, perfect for remembering your San Juan Islands vacation or finding a unique present for someone back home.
- Kick back with a pint of island crafted beer at San Juan Island Brewing. This is one of the most relaxed and enjoyable things to do in the San Juan Islands, and it is just a short stroll from our Boutique Hotel. All of their beers are brewed on site, and the menu of casual bites is a tasty complement to whatever is in your glass.
- Treat yourself to a slow afternoon with a coffee and a good book. Griffin Bay Bookstore is a favorite spot to escape the rain, with a warm and inviting interior and a wonderfully curated selection of books. Tucked in the back you will find a cozy little coffee shop, the perfect place to linger for a while. It’s definitely one of our favorite things to do in the San Juan Islands in winter.
- Hiking remains one of the most popular things to do on San Juan Island even in winter. Locals will tell you there is something special about the forest and beach trails when it rains, so lace up your boots, pull on a few warm layers, and head out on the trails for a peaceful and beautiful walk surrounded by nature.
- Winter is also the season for a bit of indulgence, so why not book a spa day. The Spa at Earthbox is a fantastic place to unwind during your San Juan Islands vacation. In addition to an appealing menu of spa services, the spa offers a Jacuzzi, pool, and sauna that you can enjoy before and after your treatment, a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring the best things to do in Friday Harbor.
The Ultimate Getaway Lodging in Friday Harbor
Though there are plenty of great things to do in the San Juan Islands this winter, nothing quite compares to the cozy downtime you will enjoy at our upscale Boutique Hotel in Friday Harbor. Each guest room and suite is thoughtfully designed with comfortable beds and high end amenities, and we have done our best to anticipate what you might need so you can simply relax. We even offer private vacation cottages, including pet-friendly lodging, in order to meet every need. Our Friday Harbor lodging is the perfect place to put your feet up at the end of a full and possibly chilly day exploring your favorite things to do on San Juan Island.
When it is time for a meal, you will not have to think too hard about that either. Each morning, a delicious hot breakfast is delivered directly to your room, so you can ease into the day at your own pace. Everything is made from scratch and highlights fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients that reflect the character of the San Juan Islands. The treats do not stop at breakfast, you can look forward to afternoon cookies, and when dinner rolls around, guests have the option to dine at one of the very best restaurants in Friday Harbor, Coho.
Coho Restaurant is a beautiful expression of farm to table dining, with a menu that focuses on high quality, seasonal ingredients prepared with care. To complement your meal, the restaurant features an extensive and carefully curated wine list, along with thoughtful pairings that make every course feel special. In addition to nightly dinner service, Coho Restaurant often hosts special event dinners that highlight local winemakers and brewmasters, as well as relaxed holiday dinners that take all the work off your plate.
As you can see, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in the San Juan Islands this winter, from shopping, hiking, and other classic San Juan activities to dining out and unwinding in our elegant Friday Harbor lodging. Whatever you have in mind for your winter getaways near Seattle, our concierge team is happy to help with tour suggestions, transportation, dining reservations, and more. There are so many reasons to visit the San Juan Islands in the cooler months, and a stay at our Friday Harbor lodging is the perfect place to start. Book your room today!
