Story by Devin
48 Hours of Ultimate Relaxation on San Juan Island
Adventure in Friday Harbor, The Islands, WA, US
As the ferry pulls up to San Juan Island, you are instantly transported to a world of beauty. How can something so close to Seattle, a booming town, feel so otherworldly? Most of the island's natural areas are preserved in their original state – lush forests, exposed bluffs, and vast beaches.
Driving up to the private guesthouse feels like you're heading into a fairytale, and you wouldn't be wrong! The guesthouse is nestled under towering pine trees with views of the Sound and layer upon layer of islands. Take a walk around the property and you'll find a large garden and some friendly goats. The perfect place for an escape, it's located within minutes of Downtown, Roche Harbor, and Lime Kiln State Park.
Driving up to the private guesthouse feels like you're heading into a fairytale, and you wouldn't be wrong! The guesthouse is nestled under towering pine trees with views of the Sound and layer upon layer of islands. Take a walk around the property and you'll find a large garden and some friendly goats. The perfect place for an escape, it's located within minutes of Downtown, Roche Harbor, and Lime Kiln State Park.
Things We Did
- Boat
- Brewery
- Walk
- Beach
- Hike
- Town
It wouldn't be right to say that a ferry ride through the San Juan's is anything short of an adventure. Drive up to the deck, park, and then head up to the passenger cabin where you might find group puzzles that passengers from all trips can work on, but keep watch for seals, orcas, grey whales, sea otters and jumping fish! Enjoy watching the islands pass by, each with its own unique shape and terrain. Keep a lookout for Spieden Island, a private island that is home to rare animals like European Fallow Deer, Japanese Sika Deer, and Mouflon Sheep.
Brewed right here on the island, San Juan Island Brewing is a local institution! There's a line as soon as it opens for lunch, so get in early if you don't like to wait. Otherwise, enjoy a beer out on the patio while you wait for a table. When I visited, the daily pizza special was Mexican Street Corn, which was AMAZING (and not too spicy if you're not into that kind of thing). It's a pizza and burger joint but has plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
South Beach is scattered with driftwood for what seems like miles. This beach is the PERFECT spot for a picnic or a nice stroll. As you look across the water, you'll see a beautiful view of Victoria Island in British Columbia, Canada.
Follow the staircase lined with rope down to a secluded beach. This is by far the most peaceful beach on the island. As the water hits the rocky beach and finds its way back, the sound is mesmerizing. Think Pop Rocks-candy on your tongue, but more melodic. Since it's so hard to explain, this needs to be a must on your to-do list!
Some say it's cool, I think it's eerie, but either way, it's a must-see attraction while on the island! This open-air tribute to the McMillin family, and those who have passed, looks like something straight out of Lord of the Rings.
The seats around the table are meant to act as headstones, holding the ashes of the McMillin family. You'll pass through additional gravesites as you hike toward the structure. See it during the day or, if you're up for a scary adventure, try attempting it at dusk.
The seats around the table are meant to act as headstones, holding the ashes of the McMillin family. You'll pass through additional gravesites as you hike toward the structure. See it during the day or, if you're up for a scary adventure, try attempting it at dusk.
Friday Harbor is a lively little town with amazing shopping, eating, drinking, and views. While you're in town, check out some of my favourites and they may just become your favourites too! Start your day off with coffee and breakfast from The Salty Fox; while you're waiting for your order, check out the local provisions and artists in their shop.
If you like to shop, look no further than Deer Hazel. Downriggers is also an unmissable restaurant with the best seafood – the scallop gnocchi will not disappoint.
Want to grab a drink like a local? Then Cease and Desist is the place! There is so much more, so have fun exploring all the nooks and crannies in this town.
If you like to shop, look no further than Deer Hazel. Downriggers is also an unmissable restaurant with the best seafood – the scallop gnocchi will not disappoint.
Want to grab a drink like a local? Then Cease and Desist is the place! There is so much more, so have fun exploring all the nooks and crannies in this town.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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