San Juan Island (103)Join us for a back-to-nature getaway on San Juan Island, an idyllic vacation retreat just 90 miles northwest of Seattle. Located on the Puget Sound, the island paradise offers wooded trails for outdoor sports enthusiasts, as well as waters that are perfect for whale watching, sailing and kayaking.
The gem of the San Juan Archipelago is just one of more than 700 islands and reefs carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. About half of the islands are named, and of these, just four are inhabited. The islands are as unique as San Juan County's 12,000 residents.
Tour the unique inns, boutiques and art galleries of this artists' colony. Be sure you don't miss the Georgian style Hotel de Haro at Roche Harbor Seaside Village, which was built on the grounds of an old lime and cement factory. Plus, check out Friday Harbor House, a contemporary retreat with all the modern amenities.
San Juan Facts:
- San Juan Islands see the sun an average of 247 days a year.
- About 300 islands disappear daily at high tide.
- You—and your car—can catch a ferry ride for around $30.
- Hotel de Haro is named after Captain de Haro, who led the first Europeans into the San Juan Islands.
- San Juan island is home to hundreds of species of birds, including the American Bald Eagle.
- According to San Juan Island folklore, Friday Harbor got its name when the captain of an approaching ship asked "What bay is this?" and got the answer to "What day is this?"
- Friday Harbor House winter room rates range from $140 to $255 per night; summer room rates are from $200 to $300 per night.
- Each of Friday Harbor House's 20 guestrooms features an oversized Jacuzzi and fireplace.
Contact Information:
The Whale Museum
62 First Street North
PO Box 945
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
360-378-4710
800-946-7227
www.whale-museum.org
Friday Harbor House
130 West Street
PO Box 1385
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
360-378-8455
www.fridayharborhouse.com
Hotel de Haro
Roche Harbor Village
248 Reuben Memorial Drive
PO Box 4001
Roche Harbor, WA 98250
800-451-8910
www.rocheharbor.com
Resources:
San Juan Web
www.sanjuanweb.com
