Family-friendly attractions and activities year-round make the San Juan Islands an ideal reunion destination. Discover a variety of lodging and dining options, indoor and outdoor activities, and family favorite photo ops for your perfect trip!
When you get families together, inevitably everyone has a different idea of fun. When the whole gang gets together in the San Juans, you'll find something to keep everyone busy and happy—and you get to enjoy fun activities together. Find a list of some family favorites below, but know that the world is your oyster! We know that the best part of any family reunion is simply being together and sharing laughs, remembering stories, and making memories.
Enjoy a trip out to sea on a whale and wildlife watching trip! Choose from a number of outfitters on each island to guide you through an unforgettable experience. Naturalists on board will help educate and point out wildlife, including orcas, humpback and minke whales, harbor seals, steller sea lions, bald eagles, cormorants and other sea birds. A day on the water is fun for everyone! To learn more about whales before or after you go out, visit The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, where you can see whale skeletons, hear recordings of whale song on a hydrophone, watch interesting videos, and learn about native people's legends about killer whales and how they interacted with people in fascinating folklore.
Pack a picnic lunch and spend time together exploring the various trail networks throughout the islands. On Orcas Island, you won't want to miss the views from the top of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. The vistas from the top offer an 180-degree view, and those willing to climb several flights of stairs get a 360-degree view from the stone tower modeled on a medieval stronghold. On San Juan Island, the San Juan Island National Historical Park has many trails winding through former American and English Camps from the Pig War.
For the adventurous members of your group, head out onto the water in a kayak or sailboat! A kayaking trip is perfect for multi-generations because you all get to go in a group, and younger kids can paddle in tandem with more experienced members of the family. Paddle along beautiful shorelines, around rocky bluffs and to little islands for a lunch stop. You can take a professionally guided group tour out of Friday Harbor, San Juan County Park, Roche Harbor on San Juan Island; Rosario Resort, Doe Bay Resort, Cascade Lake on Orcas Island; several places on Lopez Island, and other stunning locations in the islands.
Take to the roads and enjoy a ride around the islands. Each of the San Juan Islands—Lopez, Orcas and San Juan—have very different terrain, landscapes, and vistas, so it's best to get an idea of what each island is like for your level of expertise and particular interests as you plan your bicycling adventures. Use this list of itineraries and bike maps to guide you in your travels. Be sure to pack layers, plenty of water, and a positive attitude!
Are you traveling with your four-legged friend? Be sure to check out these pet-friendly options during your stay. We want them to enjoy their visit as much as you do. Many shops have water bowls on their sidewalks, some allow furry shoppers inside, and some restaurants accommodate outdoor dining with your dog. Be sure to ask each establishment in advance.
