San Juan Island is full of unique experiences that could occupy your time for weeks on end! So how do you make the most of your day trip?
We recommend following the Scenic Byway. Whether by car, moped, or transit, this driving route takes you toward stunning vistas, past fragrant fields of lavender, and to notable stops like the National Historical Parks, Roche Harbor, and Lime Kiln Lighthouse. Be sure to leave time for shopping and a bite to eat in Friday Harbor before you leave!
Use the itinerary below to find the must-visit stops for your day of exploring!
Pro-Tips for day trippers to San Juan coming by ferry:
1) You will need to make a reservation to bring a vehicle with you to San Juan Island from Anacortes and back.
2) The town of Friday Harbor is right off the ferry dock. If you are coming for just a few hours, you can easily walk around Friday Harbor and maybe grab a great lunch or dinner before catching your boat back. If you do wish to leave the car behind in Anacortes and you want to see more than Friday Harbor, you can take a taxi, rent a car or moped, or even use the seasonal public shuttles if you are coming during the summer! If you are interested in tackling a few hills, winding curves, and some steep climbs on San Juan Island by bike, you can find more info here.
3) Try to take the earliest possible ferry you can from Anacortes. When you leave the island for your return to the mainland, plan on departing no later than the second to last ferry of the night. We suggest this to be sure you have the buffer of another ferry, in case of any unplanned long delays or cancelations.
4) Try to avoid booking a tour or any activity that requires ticketing or reservations within 3 hours of your ferry's scheduled arrival on island. If the ferry is delayed, you may not make it in time for your trip. Many operators do not provide refunds if the ferry is delayed.
5) Be sure to subscribe to the WSDOT ferry alerts a couple of days ahead of your travel, so that you can be made aware of any delays or cancelations with as much advanced notice as possible.
Welcome to Friday Harbor - the "Gateway to the San Juan Islands!" A charming, historic, walkable seaport, Friday Harbor is just steps from the ferry landing, with small, friendly shops and restaurants, and a refreshing absence of box stores and fast-food chains. In this visitor-, family-, and dog-friendly town, you’ll find a multitude of options to explore the island's history, arts, trails, and more.
Roche Harbor, found on the north end of San Juan Island, is an historic oasis and a boater's paradise. Visit the famous Hotel de Haro, walk the formal gardens, dine at one of the three restaurants, and soak in the history, grandeur, and beauty of this resort village and marina. Roche Harbor will capture your heart.
Come see the largest herd of alpacas in the San Juans on this 50-acre working farm on the beautiful West Side. Alpacas grow one of the world's softest, most luxurious fibers, and are also irresistibly cute. Alpaca fiber is the most sustainable, socially responsible, cruelty-free and functional fiber found in today's textile market. The whole family will enjoy a self-guided stroll around the beautiful grounds. Guided educational tours may be scheduled by calling a week in advance. The Country Store offers a wide selection of beautiful alpaca clothing, accessories, and gifts, and is where visitors can feel the amazing softness of alpaca fiber. The farm is easily found, just minutes from Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor Resort.
English Camp is bursting with history and natural beauty. The Royal Marines lived at English Camp during "The Pig War," and today you can visit sites including the parade ground, barracks, blockhouse, commissary, and formal garden. Visit the seasonal visitor center, hike to the top of Young Hill, or spend a day in the orchards.
This fully operational lighthouse, built in 1919 and located in Lime Kiln Point State Park, is one of the most popular and stunning locations on San Juan Island. Also known as "Whale Watch Park," it is one of the best places to view orca whales from land. The interpretive center is open and lighthouse tours are available from mid-May to mid-September.
American Camp is located on the southern end of San Juan Island. American soliders lived at American Camp during the peaceful 12-year joint British/U.S. occupation of San Juan Island, known as "The Pig War." Today, you can visit sites from the 1800s including the parade ground, laundress quarters, and officers quarters. American Camp also features a new visitor center, a network of trails, and the longest beach on the island - South Beach.
The Department of Natural Resource's Cattle Point Interpretive Area is just past the Cattle Point Lighthouse. Cattle appeared at the point in 1853, when the Hudson's Bay Company established a ranch on the southern end of the island. This lighthouse was built in 1935, but a navigational lantern has been on watch here since 1888. Look for deer, eagles and marine mammals such as seals and sea lions from the shelter, picnic area and beach below.
Looking for a little more adventure? Check out the recreation and wildlife tours on the island. Book a whale and wildlife tour from Friday Harbor or a 3-hour kayaking trip. Many trips depart from docks in town or shuttle you to the launch site. Or, stay on land an consider renting bikes or taking San Juan Transit or the Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley to one of the stops with a trailhead. Explore hiking routes in the National Historical Park, Lime Kiln Lighthouse, Roche Harbor, and more.
