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San Juan Islands

Photo of San Juan Islands

About San Juan Islands

Escape the buzz of city life and embrace the unspoilt outdoors with a trip to the San Juan Islands. A scattering of some 170 islands and rocky outcrops tucked between the mouth of Puget Sound and Vancouver Island, these little land masses sit at the northern tip of Washington State, and are known for having more bicycles than cars. Accommodation options include cosy B&Bs or contemporary harbour hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in the San Juan Islands also specialise in delicious food — you’re in for a real treat!

Life in this idyllic region is all about the simple pleasures of the great outdoors. Beautiful state parks include 200-acre Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island and 5000-acre Moran State Park on Orcas Island — dominated by the 2409-foot Mt Constitution, the tallest peak in the archipelago — amongst others. Enjoy hiking, horse riding, cycling, bird watching and fishing excursions, or go kayaking, swimming and crabbing along the sea shore. Sailing and whale watching trips are a highlight.

For shops, eateries and the intriguing Whale Museum, take the time to visit Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. This is also the region's main ferry port, so a convenient point of arrival or departure for Seattle-bound travellers.

Bring your hiking boots, a good book and a relaxed attitude. The best places to stay in the San Juan Islands will charm you with their warm welcome and nature-focused outlook.

The Best Places to Stay in the San Juan Islands

For a Tranquil B&B

  • Otters Pond B&B 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 and food-focused, 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.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in San Juan Islands

Best Hotels in San Juan Islands

  • Kingfish at West Sound Eastsound, San Juan Islands 4 rooms from AU$302

    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
    RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    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. See More

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  • Friday Harbor House Friday Harbor, San Juan Islands 23 rooms from AU$433

    Sailing  -  3 hours, half a day or a full days charter - explore the local island just off Washington mainland.
    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.
    Kayaking  -  Crystal Seas Kayaks do hour or half day trips.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    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. See More

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  • Otters Pond Eastsound, San Juan Islands 6 rooms from AU$513

    Great walks  -  Explore the Moran State Park which the B&B just rests besides.
    Kayaking  -  Explore the sea at your leisure in a kayak or canoe.
    Restaurant  -  Adult only.
    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    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. See More

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