Discover San Juan Islands - Pacific Northwest's Wildlife Paradise

Day 1: Island Charm & Southern Trails

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your “San Juan Island Explorer” adventure in Friday Harbor. Start with a delightful coffee and pastry at San Juan Bakery & Cafe (estimated cost: $15-20 for two) before delving into the town’s charm. Stroll along the waterfront, browse unique boutiques, and visit The Whale Museum. Spend about 1-1.5 hours learning about the local orca pods and marine ecosystem. Admission is approximately $10-12 per person ($20-24 for two). All activities are within walking distance in Friday Harbor.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy a casual and fresh lunch at Market Chef in Friday Harbor, known for its gourmet sandwiches and salads (estimated cost: $35-40 for two). After lunch, drive south approximately 10-15 minutes (6 miles) to American Camp (San Juan Island National Historical Park). Spend 2-3 hours exploring the historic parade grounds, officer’s quarters, and hiking the diverse trails. Consider the Jakle’s Lagoon to Mt. Finlayson trail (moderate, 3.5 miles round trip, ~1.5-2 hours) for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water.
• Evening For dinner, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and quality pub fare at Cask & Schooner in Friday Harbor (estimated cost: $80-90 for two). Afterward, check into your accommodation in or near Friday Harbor. (Accommodation budget: approx. $250/night for two, totaling $500 for two nights).

Day 2: Orca Quest & Western Wonders

• Morning (8:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Grab a quick coffee and pastry (estimated cost: $10-15 for two) and head to the Friday Harbor marina for your pre-booked whale watching tour. Operators like San Juan Safaris or Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours offer 3-4 hour excursions to spot orcas, seals, and other marine wildlife. Check-in is typically 30-45 minutes before departure. (Cost: ~$110-125 per person, so $220-250 for two). Wear layers as it can be chilly on the water.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) After your thrilling whale watch, grab a classic burger and shake for lunch at Vic’s Drive-In in Friday Harbor (estimated cost: $30-35 for two). Next, drive approximately 20-25 minutes (9 miles) west along San Juan Valley Road and West Side Road to Lime Kiln Point State Park, famously known as “Whale Watch Park.” Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the iconic lighthouse, interpretive center, and scanning the waters for whales from shore. A Discover Pass is required for parking, or you can pay a $10 day-use fee at the park kiosk. Enjoy the scenic drive back towards Friday Harbor along the beautiful West Side Road.
• Evening Indulge in an elevated dining experience at Backdoor Kitchen in Friday Harbor, offering creative Asian-fusion cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. Reservations are recommended (estimated cost: $90-110 for two).

Day 3: Historic Reflections & Island Farewell

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Mike’s Cafe and Wine Bar in Friday Harbor (estimated cost: $35-45 for two). Afterward, drive approximately 15-20 minutes (9 miles) northwest to English Camp (San Juan Island National Historical Park). Spend 2-3 hours exploring the beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, the formal garden, and hiking the trails. The Young Hill Trail (moderate, 2.2 miles round trip, 650 ft elevation gain, ~1-1.5 hours) offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and beyond, providing a perfect farewell vista.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Head back to Friday Harbor for a quick and casual lunch at Tio’s Tacos, serving authentic and tasty Mexican food (estimated cost: $25-30 for two). Use any remaining time to pick up last-minute souvenirs or revisit a favorite spot in town. Allow ample time to get to the Washington State Ferry terminal (located right in Friday Harbor) for your departure back to Anacortes. Ferry reservations are highly recommended, especially for afternoon sailings. (Ferry cost: ~$80-100 round trip for vehicle + 2 people).
• Evening Depart from San Juan Island, carrying memories of its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and history.

Day 1: Arrival on San Juan: Ferry, Friar & First Bites

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Your adventure begins with a scenic drive to Anacortes, WA, to catch your Washington State Ferry to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Practical Tip: Reserve your ferry space well in advance (weeks, or even months, especially during peak season) to guarantee your spot. Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your scheduled departure. Enjoy the approximately 1-hour journey through the picturesque Puget Sound. Disembark in Friday Harbor, the charming main town of San Juan Island.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Upon arrival, check into your accommodation in Friday Harbor (e.g., Earthbox Inn & Spa or Friday Harbor House for a splurge). Have a casual lunch at Downriggers, offering waterfront views and fresh seafood (estimated cost for 2: $40-60). Spend the afternoon exploring Friday Harbor on foot. Visit The Whale Museum (admission ~$12-15 per person, allow 1-1.5 hours) to learn about local marine life, browse the unique boutiques and art galleries along Spring Street, and stroll along the marina.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Golden Triangle for authentic Thai cuisine (estimated cost for 2: $60-80) or head to Friday Harbor House Restaurant for a more upscale, farm-to-table experience with stunning views (estimated cost for 2: $100-150). Afterwards, perhaps enjoy a leisurely walk back to your hotel or grab a scoop of local ice cream.

Day 2: Orca Quest & Lighthouse Views

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Embark on the highlight of your trip: a whale watching tour! Book in advance with a reputable company like San Juan Outfitters or San Juan Safaris (tours typically last 3-4 hours; estimated cost: $120-150 per person). You’ll cruise through the archipelago, hoping to spot orcas, minke whales, gray whales, seals, and eagles. Practical Tip: Dress in layers, as it can be chilly on the water, even on a sunny day. Bring binoculars and a camera!
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After your tour, grab a quick and tasty lunch at a local spot like The Doctor’s Office (pizza and sandwiches, estimated cost for 2: $30-50). Then, drive approximately 20-25 minutes (10 miles) to Lime Kiln Point State Park, often called “Whale Watch Park” because it’s one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world. Explore the historic lighthouse and keep an eye out for marine life from the shoreline. A Washington State Discover Pass ($10/day) is required for parking.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Take a scenic drive to Roche Harbor Resort (approx. 15-20 minutes from Lime Kiln Point) to explore the historic grounds and sculpture park. Enjoy dinner at The Madrona Bar & Grill, offering a lively atmosphere and waterfront dining (estimated cost for 2: $70-100). Alternatively, for a more casual evening, pack a picnic from a local deli and enjoy the sunset from a scenic overlook.

Day 3: Paddle & Pivot: From San Juan to Orcas Shores

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Experience the islands from a different perspective with a guided sea kayaking tour. Many operators launch from areas like San Juan County Park or Roche Harbor. Book a 3-4 hour tour with companies like Sea Quest Kayak Tours or San Juan Kayak Expeditions (estimated cost: $90-110 per person). Paddle through calm waters, spotting eagles, seals, and diverse marine birds. No prior experience is usually necessary.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After kayaking, enjoy a late lunch in Friday Harbor or grab something to go. Then, catch an inter-island ferry from Friday Harbor to Orcas Island (Eastbound route; estimated vehicle + 2 passengers: $20-30; journey approx. 45 minutes, though schedules vary). Practical Tip: Inter-island ferries are usually first-come, first-served and do not require reservations. Check the latest schedule! Arrive in Orcas Island and drive to Eastsound, the main village (approx. 15-20 minutes from the ferry landing). Check into your Orcas Island accommodation (e.g., Outlook Inn, Doe Bay Resort).
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Explore the charming village of Eastsound. Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Loft at Madrona Bar & Grill (different from the one in Roche Harbor, this one in Eastsound) for fresh local ingredients and a cozy ambiance (estimated cost for 2: $70-100), or for a more refined experience, dine at Matia Kitchen + Bar (estimated cost for 2: $100-150). Stroll through the village and perhaps enjoy a drink at a local pub.

Day 4: Peak Panoramas & Eastsound Delights

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Head to Moran State Park (approx. 15-20 minutes drive from Eastsound, a Discover Pass is required for parking). Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands (2,409 feet). Climb the historic stone observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire archipelago, Mount Baker, and even Vancouver Island. Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the summit area and enjoy some short trails.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Descend from Moran State Park and drive to Rosario Resort & Spa (located within the park, approx. 10 minutes from Eastsound or 15 minutes from the mountain summit). Have lunch with stunning views at The Mansion Restaurant (casual lunch menu, estimated cost for 2: $40-60), or simply explore the historic Moran Mansion and its museum. Afterwards, return to Eastsound to browse the unique shops, art galleries, and perhaps visit a local farm stand for fresh produce or artisanal goods.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Enjoy your final island dinner on Orcas. Try New Leaf Cafe for its commitment to local produce and inventive dishes (estimated cost for 2: $90-130), or go for a more casual option at Island Skillet (comfort food, estimated cost for 2: $40-60). Consider catching a live music performance if available in Eastsound or simply relax and reflect on your island adventures.

Day 5: Lopez Island’s Laid-back Charm & Homeward Bound

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up early and catch an inter-island ferry from Orcas Island to Lopez Island (Eastbound route to Lopez is typically a short 20-30 minute ride, no reservations needed for inter-island). Lopez Island is known for its gentle rolling hills, friendly community, and less-trafficked roads, making it ideal for a quick scenic drive. Stop at Lopez Village for a coffee and pastry at Holly B’s Bakery, known for its sticky buns (estimated cost for 2: $15-25). Drive out to Shark Reef Sanctuary (about 15 minutes from the village) for an easy 10-minute walk to a viewpoint where you might spot seals and sea lions.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch in Lopez Village, perhaps at The Galley (estimated cost for 2: $30-50). Afterwards, make your way to the Lopez Island ferry terminal. Catch your final Washington State Ferry from Lopez Island back to Anacortes (estimated vehicle + 2 passengers: $70-80; journey approx. 1 hour). Practical Tip: Again, book your return ferry from Lopez to Anacortes in advance, as this is a popular route.
• Evening (3:00 PM onwards) Disembark in Anacortes, marking the end of your “Orca & Island Hopping Adventure.” Begin your journey home, filled with memories of the stunning natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and culinary delights of the San Juan Islands.