The best hotels in San Juan Islands

Otters Pond

San Juan Islands (Washington State)

Eco-friendly B&B on Orcas Island boasts stunning views, peace and quiet and a home-away-from-home atmosphere. Slip into plush bathrobes and slippers, relax in an armchair and soak up the nicely decorated bedrooms. Five course breakfast in-room or on the terrace, or read a book at the library.

  • Romantic Break - Enjoy a romantic escape with local cheeses, ciders and hideaway location.
  • Great walks - Explore the Moran State Park which the B&B is located close to
  • Kayaking - Explore the sea at your leisure in a kayak or canoe.
  • Restaurant - Adult only.
from $291 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Friday Harbor House

San Juan Islands (Washington State)

Small seafront hotel in an idyllic location. Modern, spacious rooms some with balcony overlooking the bay. The restaurant at Friday Harbor House is renowned for its seasonal dishes using local produce. Perfect for a romantic getaway with stunning views & hot tub baths for two in every room.

  • Sailing - 3 hours, half a day or a full days charter - explore the local island just off Washington mainland.
  • Romantic Break - With awesome views and hot tub baths for two in every room, it's the perfect romantic break.
  • Restaurant - The restaurant is well known for serving seasonal and locally sourced dishes.
  • Views - From its raised position, Friday Harbor House has lovely views over the bay.
from $309 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Kingfish at West Sound

San Juan Islands

Restaurant & suites in a historic inn facing scenic West Sound. Run by husband & wife duo, a chef and inn-keeper respectively, expect gourmet comfort farm-to-table cuisine at the restaurant. Deceivingly simple suites boast contemporary creature comforts. Understated elegance in remote surroundings.

  • Back to Nature - Perfect for those who love a laid-back approach to the great outdoors; explore the island on foot, by bike or on the water
  • Hideaway - Offers a real sense of leaving the world behind; tuck into gourmet food, stare at the sea and enjoy peace and quiet
  • Value chic - Very afffordable option for multi-night break. The restaurant on-site allows for further reduction to travel costs
  • Views - All suites offer amazing views out over West Sound, marina, San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains beyond
from $340 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

About San Juan Islands

What are the best hotels in the San Juan Islands?

Spread between Washington State and Vancouver Island, the San Juan Islands are a laid-back collection of forested islands, rocky coves, quiet beaches and tiny harbours, with ferries and bicycles rather than busy roads. The best places to stay are small, full of character and close to the water, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking and whale watching. Otters Pond is our top pick: this adults-only hideaway on Orcas Island has just five cosy suites, homemade breakfasts and a wonderfully peaceful setting, making it an easy choice for a romantic escape.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in the San Juan Islands or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in Washington State.

The Best Places to Stay in the San Juan Islands

For a Tranquil B&B

  • Otters Pond is an adult-only hideaway on Orcas Island. With five lovely suites, the property encourages guests to unwind in peaceful surroundings, feasting on homemade breakfasts, curling up by the firepit in the evenings, and spending days cycling, hiking or whale watching from the hotel boat. A couples' favourite.

For Foodies

  • Friday Harbor House is just moments from town and the marina. This modern seafront spot is best-known for its restaurant, which prides itself on creating fantastic fare using ingredients sourced from the Islands. The Raw Bar specialises in freshly caught seafood, served with excellent cocktails. Rooms are smart and contemporary, with indulgent whirlpool tubs. A lively choice for lovers of great food.
  • Kingfish at West Sound offers four comfortable suites with waterfront views in a 1902-built structure on Orcas Island. This is a real foodie haven: chef-owner Raymond Southern crafts delectable dishes showcasing produce from the island itself. Quiet, food-focused and well-suited to couples.

For an Apartment or Holiday Cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly into Friday Harbor Airport, on San Juan Island, or fly to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and catch the daily ferry from the city out to the islands.
  • Washington State is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • If you're eager to spot whales, time your trip for the summer months (May to September). For cooler weather and quieter parks, visit (April - May) or autumn (September - October). Winters are cold.

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