25 Amazing Things To Do In The San Juan Islands, Washington: The Ultimate Guide

Did you know there are islands just off the coast of the Pacific Northwest? They’re called the San Juan Islands. To help you plan your trip, I’ve curated a list of the best things to do in the San Juan Islands, Washington.

For starter, these islands are a spectacular destination for wellness travelers. These islands are a dream for anyone seeking breathtaking outdoor adventure, glistening waters, tasty farm-to-table dining experiences, beautiful art, and healing from nature.

After experiencing island life (aka “go slow”) in Caye Caulker, Belize during the hotter months, I was itching to experience island life during the colorful fall season. While it may not be the first place many travelers jet set to during the fall and winter months, these months are a wonderful time to visit.

It’s more sustainable for the local economy, less crowds which protects the planet, and prices are cheaper — I’d say that’s a win-win in my book!

To truly discover what these islands have to offer, the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau invited me on as their guest. Below you’ll find the highlights and the best things to do on the islands for travelers who are craving adventure and wellness. All opinions in this piece are my own.

Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. That means I will receive a small commission on the purchase at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support friend!

Short on time? My top resources to help plan your trip ✈️

• Travel insurance is how I protect both my well-being and my trip.
• Samsonite has the best lightweight suitcases for effortless packing.
• Booking.com and Hotels.com are where I find the best last minute hotel deals.
• Hostelworld is my go-to place to find private rooms in hostels for workcations.
• Viator and GetYourGuide are where I book my tours and unique experiences.
• Amazing Grass Greens makes it easy to eat plants first–anywhere.
• These compression packing cubes help me stay organized and pack more.

Where are the San Juan Islands in Washington?

The San Juan Islands are located 90 miles north from the coast of Seattle, Washington. These islands are so far north that they border the Canadian owned Victoria Island. The most northern San Juan Islands are located approximately 12 miles east from the tip of Victoria.

Which island(s) should I visit? And the best things to do

Even though there’s 172 islands and reefs in the San Juan County, there’s a only a handful that the ferry services. To visit the other islands and reefs, you’ll need a boat to get you there.

To narrow your options down, asking questions like what’s your budget and how much time you do have, is a great place to start. Ask yourself “what type of experience do you want” because each island features different attractions.

Below is a short list of the islands and their highlights:

San Juan Island – Charming downtown and orca whale watching tours
Orcas Island – Tasty farm-to-table dining and local artwork
Lopez Island – Pastoral views, biking, and kayaking
Shaw Island – Camping, biking, and picnicking

How to plan your San Juan Island itinerary

If you’re looking for a island to kick start your itinerary, I recommend starting at the San Juan Island, but only if you’re taking the ferry and bringing a car. All cars, bikes, or motorcycles have an additional fee.

However, this car fee only applies for westbound travel as the return car trip is free, points out the Washington State Ferries for the San Juan Island. When you go as far westbound as possible (by visiting San Juan first) then visiting Orcas second, you’ll save more in the long run. It’s the most cost-effective option if you’re bringing a car.

From Orcas Island you can then weave in day trips to Lopez and Shaw.

Alternatively, if you’re planning on flying or if you’re not bringing a car, it doesn’t matter which island you visit first. Personally, I started with San Juan Islands since it’s the most populous and it helped me learn more about the county as a whole.

How to book a ferry

Ferry schedules can be checked here and ferry reservation for vehicles can be made here to help save time. Still there is a chance for long wait times if a ferry is canceled.

Keep in mind depending on the season you’re visiting and the time of your ferry that there can be a long line. I’ve heard there could be lines up to 2.5 hours long! So get there early and plan accordingly.

It’s free to island hop in any direction for walk-ons after you’ve paid initial in Anacortes, explains Amy from the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau.

Best things to do in San Juan Island, Washington

The San Juan Island is perfect for those looking for a bustling downtown with quaint eateries. You’ll find tons of restaurants, rooftop bars, port-side dining spots, shopping, local artisanal crafts, and more.

It also has the bulk of whale watching cruise operations and it’s the only island with national state park. Below is a list of the best things to do in San Juan Islands.

Rent a kayak

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board to go at your own pace or book a guided tour with local outfitters to help you navigate the currents of the Salish Sea. From magical bioluminescence kayaking tours to wildlife spotting paddles and family-friendly kayak-and-hike combos, there’s a kayaking experience on the San Juan Islands for every kind of adventurer.

Viator is my go-to resource for booking tours!

Go paddleboarding

Paddle boarding in the Salish Sea is must-do activity for outdoor adventurers. It’s intimate way to explore the island by boat and take in the scenic sights from a unique viewpoint.

Visit the Whale Museum

Built in 1979, the Whale Museum is a wonderful natural history museum that houses specimens, exhibits, models, and more. It’s located in Friday Harbor, the charming downtown of the San Juan Island. It’s one of the best things to do if you’re a history buff, naturalist, and nature lover.

Here you can learn more about the beautiful orcas, humpback whales, minke whales and other marine life in the San Juan Islands. Fun fact: The totem from Free Willy was donated to this museum; talk about nostalgia.

The museum is open everyday from 10:00am-5:00pm. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for students. Children 5 and under are free.

Book a whale watching tour

Hands down this was one of the highlight of my visit to the San Juan Islands in Washington. We booked our orca whale watching tour through Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching and had an unforgettable, National Geographic type experience.

During the tour we saw 9 orca whales hunting a minke whale. To say the least it was both awe-inspiring to watch these magnificent creatures yet devastating to watch a whale get killed.

More tours and unique experiences can be found on Viator and GetYourGuide.

Whale watch and hike at Lime Kiln Point State Park

Another popular spot to look for orcas on the island is at Lime Kiln Point State Park. It’s one of the best things to do in the San Juan Island for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Some even say it’s one of the best places in the world to go whale watching!

Here, you’ll witness diverse whale populations—from transient orcas to the iconic southern residents. Watching them breach the waves is nothing short of magical!

Located along the coast this park features stunning coastal hikes, dramatic bluffs, lush woodland areas, and sweeping vistas for spotting the marine life. It spans 36-acres and is home to the Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse.

Explore the local shops at Friday Harbor

Friday Harbor is the heartbeat of the San Juan Island. It’s the best place to grab dinner and soak up the quaint island vibes. Here you’ll find artisanal goods ranging from wine bars, chocolates, and handmade lavender products at a store called Pelendaba Lavender Store.

Wander the San Juan Island Farmers Market

The San Juan Islands are well-known for their incredible meals, and it all starts with the freshest produce. Shop for crisps veggies, fresh organic eggs, artisanal crafts, island-grown flowers, bread and much more.

This farmers market is open every Saturday from April to October, from 9:30am -1:30pm. It’s located in Friday Harbor at the historic Brickworks center. Come enjoy local artist, support local businesses, and take in the scenic sites of the harbor as you expand your palette with high-quality food.

Dine seaport at Downriggers

Downriggers is an American-style eatery that’s vegan-friendly and offers gluten-free items. While it’s not a vegan restaurant, there’s many options to try besides a big old salad. Think roasted buffalo cauliflower, aromatic Buddha bowls topped with spiced pepitas and more.

For the seafood lovers, consider trying the creamy clam chowder, spicy prawn mac and cheese, smoked salmon, or classic fish and chips.

This restaurant is located along the harbor and features serene views of the sea, seaplanes, and ferries. Get ready for tasty dinner with a spectacular view!

Enjoy a romantic evening at Duck Soup

Duck Soup is a cross between a whimsical and a mountain-y tavern equipped with an outdoor fire pit. The tender ambiance offers a tantalizing haven for both foodies and couples alike.

From the roasted eggplant topped with za’atar to the orange glazed delicata squash, this was one of my favorite restaurants on the islands. It’s also farm-to-table!

Go wine tasting

Are you a big fan of wine? One of the best things to do in San Juan Island is go wine tasting at one of the local shops or vineyards.

Doe Bay Wine Company in Eastsound features a charming tasting room and bottle shops where you can intimately sample wine from around the world. This company also launched ‘The Orcas Project’, a unique initiative that showcases Orcas Island Artists artwork on the wine label.

Take a moment to admire these custom designed labels while sipping your wine.

Another excellent winery worth checking out is the San Juan Vineyard. Located in Friday Harbor, this vineyard was has won awards for its estate-grown wines.

Grab a beer at a local distillery

The San Juan Islands are also home to many breweries, distilleries, and cideries. Many of these establishment invite you to enjoy a glass of your favorite liquid art, while also learning about their production.

For cider fans, head over to Madrone’s Cellar to sample current vintages. But if you’re craving a glass of whiskey, vodka, bourbon, or rum, you’ll want to check out the distilleries.

Amaro Flat Hat Distilling is a barn-distillery that uses ingredients from the farm, while the San Juan Island Distillery is the second-oldest cider distillery in the state. From apples to cider, this distillery boasts of its award-winning spirits and cider.

San Juan Island National Historical Park

In the park you’ll find two camps — American Camp and English Camp. Built in 1966, this historical park showcases these two camps and educates travelers about the potential war that nearly broke out between Great Britain and America. This feud was over a pig (but really poorly drawn borders)! Here you can explore the vast golden prairies and learn more about the Pig War Conflict.

Explore American Camp

American Camp, formerly known as Camp San Juan Island, was home to U.S. Army troops between July 1859 to November 1874. Nowadays this historical park attracts visitors around the world to bask in its unique blend of grassy prairies, green forests, and sunny seaside views.

In 2022, the park opened the American Camp Visitor Center, inviting visitors to step back in time to explore The Pig War, the rich Salish heritage, and the diverse ecology of the area.

After spending some time at the visitor center, step into the park to explore its rich history and scenic beauty. Visit the historic buildings and check out Robert’s Redoubt, a man-made earthwork fortification that once served as a defensive stronghold.

From there, wander through the vast golden prairies, where the open landscape feels both peaceful and wild. You can choose to hike toward South Beach — the longest beach on San Juan Islands — or take the trail up to Mount Finlayson, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Cattle Point Lighthouse and the surrounding coastline.

Don’t forget to explore English Camp too

After the Pig War in 1859, The Royal Marines called the north part of island – English Camp – home. During their time on the island, they built several buildings, a cemetery, and a beautiful formal garden.

Now, visitors can explore this historic, beautiful park and learn about its rich history at the seasonal visitors center. The park is open from May to September. During this time, it’s open daily from 10:00am – 3:00pm and is closed on Wednesdays.

After exploring the visitors center, admire the vast coastline at Garrison Bay, then enjoy a moderate 45-minute loop hike around the park. Get ready to trek up Young Hill to see the old cemetery, wander through the trees, and soak up the scenic ocean views.

Go stargazing on San Juan Island

Stargazing is a must on San Juan Island, where low light pollution and wide-open skies make it one of the best places in the Pacific Northwest to spot constellations. Whether you’re on a beach, nestled in the forested hills, or tucked into a peaceful campground, you’re in for a magical night under the stars.

Some of my favorite stargazing spots include American Camp, English Camp, and — honestly — just about any beach on the island.

Ride a seaplane!

One of the most unique things to do in the San Juan Islands is to ride a seaplane. As the name suggests, a seaplane is small plane that lands on water. And there’s no better place to ride one then on the islands.

At Friday Harbor you’ll witness several seaplane taking off from the harbor to showcase the lush forest and dazzling sea.

Friday Harbor Seaplane Tours have scheduled flights beginning at Friday Harbor. Tickets are $149 per adult with a minimum of two people. This scenic flight around San Juan Island lasts around 20 minutes.

If you’re in the mood for a day trip to the San Juan Island, seaplane tours are also available from Seattle.

Don’t forget to ride the ferry!

If you haven’t rode the ferry yet, this is absolute must do activity in the San Juan Islands! It offers a peaceful way to enjoy the islands and the scenic surrounding waters.

Best things to do in Orcas Island, Washington

If you’re outdoor adventure enthusiast or a foodie, then Orcas Island is calling your name. Imagine hikes with stunning vistas of the coast, freshly prepared farm-to-table experiences, unique art exhibits, and more as this island is brimming with things to do.

What I love most about this island is that many restaurants are extremely accommodating for food allergies and preferences. From gluten-free buns to vegan cheese burgers and freshly picked fruit, I never found myself hungry on this island!

Here are my recommendations on the best things to do, eat, and see on the island:

Roam around Orcas Island Artworks

Orcas Island Artworks is a cooperative gallery that showcases the work of more than 40 local creatives and artists. The gallery is housed in the historic Olga Strawberry Barreling Plant, lovingly restored and full of character. Located in the small community of Olga, all the artwork found here is inspired by the rhythm and beauty of Orcas Island life.

It’s the perfect place to browse, connect with local culture, and maybe even take home a one-of-a-kind art piece that captures the island’s creative spirit.

Wander around to find hand crafted ceramic pieces, pottery, beautifully designed wood carvings, and paintings. Continue the journey outdoors to admire the breathtaking garden bursting with colorful flowers. Be sure to take your time here and admire how intentional artwork and nature come together.

The gallery is open everyday from 10:00am-5:00pm.

Stroll through Eastsound Village

Eastsound Village is the historic downtown and heartbeat of the Orcas Island. This enchanting village is packed with activities ranging from charming boutique shops to delicious restaurants, and museums for family fun.

Fern Blue Boutique is a must-visit. This Black-owned clothing boutique is as chic as it is welcoming, offering a curated selection of fashion-forward pieces that blend effortlessly with island vibes.

Nearby, you’ll also find Olga’s Boutique and Wanderlust + Wildhearts, two charming shops that sell a variety of items ranging from custom-designed jewelry to stylish clothing. For my natural girlies, Island Thyme Botanicals is home to organic skincare products, while Darvill’s Bookstore invites you to lose yourself in a good book.

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to dinner at one of Orcas Island’s local favorites. The Madrona Bar & Grill serves up classic American comfort food, while Mijitas offers a flavorful fusion of Mexican and Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Go stargazing on Orcas Island

Stargazing is a must in any destination with low light pollution. And Orcas Island is at the top of that list! From forested hills and brown sandy beaches to peaceful campgrounds, take your pick of where to go stargazing. Some of my favorite places to go stargazing on Orcas Island are Moran State Park, Obstruction Pass State Park, and any of the beaches.

If you’re craving adventure, perhaps a night time swim might do the trick! Plunge into the cold water while gazing at the midnight sky for an unforgettable late night experience. Just use caution and know your limits if swimming at night.

Hike Moran State Park

Moran State Park is a camping park that sprawls over 5,000-acres with five stunning lakes. It features 38 hiking trails for trekking, mountain biking, and birding. From cascading waterfalls and lush green forest to several campgrounds, Moran State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the best hikes on Orcas Island is the trek up to Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. As the highest point in the San Juan Islands, it offers sweeping views of the Salish Sea, forested hills, and distant snow-capped peaks. It’s the kind of view that stops you in your track – a mix of serenity and inspiration.

If you’re in the mood to chase waterfalls, consider hiking Cascade Loop Trail. This scenic 2.6-mile hike winds through lush forest and leads you to Cascade Falls, one of the park’s most photogenic hidden gems.

Below is map of the park.

Explore Obstruction Pass State Park

If you’re looking for remote beaches and coastal hikes, then you’ll want to explore Obstruction Pass State Park. It’s actually one of my all time favorite state parks because of the stunning views showcasing both the ocean and the lush forest!

The park is approximately 80 acres and one of the best hiking trails to explore is Obstruction Pass Trail. Get ready to gently wind through the forest as you make your way to a public beach that’s perfect for camping. It’s rated easy on All Trails and the loop is 1.4 miles long.

Go swimming in the Salish Sea

The Salish Sea is a stunning inland sea that stretches the coast of the Vancouver, BC and surrounds the San Juan Islands. While it’s part of the Pacific Ocean, this sea has a unique ecosystem that thrives on the kelp forests to provide food and shelter for the diverse marine life.

Going for a leisurely swim is one of the best things to do on Orcas Island. The frigid waters offer a refreshing dip during the summer. On the flip side, taking a dip in the fall or winter turns into a refreshing cold plunge — a natural biohack that’s literally right at your fingertips.

Take a tour of Doe Bay Garden

Found on Orcas Island is a charming seaside resort called Doe Bay Resort and Retreat. If you’re planning a visit here, make sure to carve out time for a slow stroll through the Doe Bay Garden. Tucked right into the heart of the property, this lush organic garden is a feast for the senses — seriously, it smells like summer and looks like a postcard.

From vibrant edible flowers to hearty crops like cauliflower, tomatoes, and potatoes, the garden is more than just a pretty space. It’s the soul of the resort’s food philosophy — and yes, much of what you see growing here ends up right on your plate. This garden is Doe Bay’s commitment to always prioritize local and seasonal food.

Eat lunch at Doe Bay Café

Once you’ve worked up an appetite strolling the gardens, head over to the Doe Bay Café for a farm-to-table dining experience. This cozy café takes all that garden goodness and turns it into dishes that are fresh, flavorful, and deeply nourishing.

On the menu, you’ll find French toast made with love, satisfying breakfast sandwiches, seasonal fresh fruit, and other rotating specials that showcase the best of what’s growing in the gardens. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over your coffee, soak up the view, and taste the island in every bite.

If you’re looking for even more exciting adventures, here’s 12 more of the best things to do on Orcas Island in Washington!

How big are the San Juan Islands?

When it comes to the San Juan Islands, there are two things you need to know regarding size and numbers. First off, the San Juan Islands refers to all the islands in the San Juan County. According to tourism bureau there are 172 islands and reefs with the county. This is not to be confused with the San Juan Island.

The name — San Juan Island — is also the name of the second largest island in the county. It has the biggest population, while Orcas Island is the largest in size.

Map of the San Juan Islands

Here’s a San Juan Islands map! This really helped me get a good feel for landscape as it can be a bit confusing for first timers.

The red marker is located on San Juan Island. To the left is the Vancouver Island (with the city of Victoria) which is in Canada and to the right is Washington.

When’s the best time to visit the San Juan Islands?

The best time to visit the island is anytime during spring, summer, and fall.

Summer

Summer is the islands busiest month as the glistening seas beckons tourists to visit. However, it can also drain your wallet since prices tend to be higher during peak season.

Spring and fall

On the other hand, spring and fall are great options that offer a different perspective. Fall in particular brings cooler weather, reduced prices, film festivals, and multicolored trees that really showcase the fall spirit. It’s something I tend to miss living in hot and dry Southern California.

But what I love most about visiting during the fall is that it’s more sustainable. Why? Because spreading out the tourism helps protects the environment. Hiking trails have more time to breathe and the fauna and flora restore themselves without being disturbed by foot traffic.

In addition, visiting during the shoulder season helps support the local economy as merchants and store owners don’t have to rely on one season to make most of their income.

Winter

But if you visit during winter, the off season, some shops and eateries (depending on the island) may close for the season. That means you’ll miss out on many of the amazing experiences the island has to offer. My advice; don’t visit during winter!

How do you get to the San Juan Islands from Washington?

There are two main routes to get to the Washington islands from Seattle — the ferry and plane. Each offer scenic views so the choice will depend on your budget and how much time you have.

In addition, you can take a small ship cruise to visit these islands or book a private yacht charter for an intimate large group travel experience.

The ferry

The most popular route to the islands is via the Washington State ferry. Ferries leave from Anacortes which is about 1 and half hour drive from Seattle. Here you can travel by foot, bike, or bring your car onto the ferry to use on the islands.

Keep in mind, some of the islands are more walk-able than others. For instance, the San Juan Island ferry puts you smack dab in the middle of downtown, at the famous Friday Harbor in Washington. Explore yummy eateries like Downriggers which overlook the water or walk to The Walk Museum which is minutes away by foot.

However, hopping off the ferry at Orcas Islands is a totally different experience. There’s not much by the port besides a hotel, restaurant, and an educational exhibit that explains the sea life found in the area. So, to get downtown you’ll need a car.

The plane

Another option for visiting the islands in Washington state is to fly. The views of the islands are insane from the sky and you’ll likely witness stunning orange-ish sunrises surmounting the islands. It’s important to note these planes are small!

The smallest plane I flew in was 3 passengers including the pilot. In contrast, the biggest was a 10 passenger plane, pilot included.

With that in mind, it can get loud. I highly recommend using earplugs or you’ll have to be blasting your music to drown out the engine.

This option is more expensive than the ferry, but it’s totally worth it for the scenic views and semi-thrilling ride if you haven’t ridden a small plane before. Also, the best airlines to use are Kenmore Air (which has land and sea planes) and San Juan Airlines.

Where to stay in San Juan Island

Tucker House Inn

• Trip Advisor: 4.5 out of 5
• Price: $$

One of the best spots to stay if you’re looking for a historic bed and breakfast is the Tucker House Inn. I stayed here and was blown away by the decor. The ambiance is extremely cozy and intimate as some rooms come equipped with a whirlpool tub. Talk about a relaxing way to end the day!

Breakfast is also brought straight to your door in a cute basket between the hours of 8:00am to 9:00am. Be sure to place your breakfast order the night before by 4:30pm. If you’re gluten-free, vegan, or have any dietary restrictions, let the staff know and they will adjust your breakfast accordingly.

It’s located downtown in Friday Harbor.

Bird Rock Hotel

• Trip Advisor: 4.5 out of 5
• Price: $$

Nestled in the heart of Friday Harbor and minutes away from the ferry is the Bird Rock Hotel. This historic boutique hotel features European inspired rooms with a modern twist. Some rooms even include a spa bath!

What I love about this place is the hotel offers complimentary beach cruisers to bike around this coastal town. Enjoy the scenic views of the harbor or explore the numerous restaurants a short walking distance away.

Where to stay in Orcas Island

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat

• Trip Advisor: 4 out of 5
• Price: $

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is a beautiful down-to-earth property with various types of accommodations. There’s yurts and domes, campsites, and hostel-type lodging. It’s located waterfront on the southeastern part of Orcas Islands.

On the property you’ll find soaking tubs, saunas, and a small shop filled with treats. In addition, there’s a farm-to-table restaurant called Doe Bay Café and an angelic garden that produces the food for the restaurant.

Pebble Cove Farm Inn and Animal Sanctuary

Trip Advisor: 5 out of 5
Price: $$

Overlooking the waterfront is the peaceful Pebble Cove Farm Inn and Animal Sanctuary. Similar to Doe Bay, this accommodation features an organic farm. It also has rescued farmed animals.

What I love most about this inn is everything is vegan. Each room comes fully equipped with a small kitchenette to make simple yet tasty vegan meals. In addition, you’ll find a basket of snacks, plant based milk, tea, coffee, and muesli.

The property also has a fire pit, kayak rentals, and hammocks.

Final thought: Best things to do in the San Juan Islands, Washington

It’s 100% worth it to visit the San Juan Islands if you’re a outdoor enthusiast, naturalist, foodie, or art buff. There’s truly so much to see and experience! From dips in the refreshing Salish sea to aromatic plant based dishes made from local ingredients, there’s something on the islands for everyone.

While the remoteness of the islands can be a bit off putting, it’s also part of its unique charm. The words “go slow” and connection really encapsulated this off the beaten path island as many locals I met were beyond generous with their time and resources. This shows up in random strangers offering to take your photos to bar keepers staying open two hours later because people are simply having a good time.

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