5 Romantic San Juan Island Getaways
While dinner out and a dozen roses are nice, we like to think a quiet fall getaway is the ultimate in perfection. Quiet getaways say, “I want to focus on you.” They offer a level of intimacy you don’t get with a staycation. There’s no laundry to wash or dishes in the sink. No one has to worry about vacuuming or mowing the lawn.
It’s just the two of you, together, in a little slice of heaven. Whether you want to stay in and lounge or get out and explore all that fall in the San Juans has to offer, the following are a few of our favorite romantic San Juan Island getaways that let the two of you be you.
Fall Romance in the San Juans
Fall’s the ultimate time for romance in the San Juans, when the summer crowds have thinned and a crackling fire takes the chill from the air. Plus, exciting events like the film festivals on Orcas and Friday Harbor; Savor the San Juans; and farm tours on San Juan Island, Lopez Island, and Orcas Island.
Harrison House Suites
Tucked into the hillside just above Friday Harbor, Harrison House Suites features peek-a-boo water views and a gourmet breakfast made from local ingredients that’ll indulge every one of our senses. The rooms come stocked with homemade lavender hot chocolate and locally sourced coffee. The bathrooms are outfitted with plush robes and the B&B’s personal line of bath products. Plus, many of the rooms feature fireplaces perfect for setting the mood and small deck grills for those who want to have dinner in.
Bonus: With its downtown location, you’re just steps from art shops, restaurants, and more.
Plan Your Trip to Friday Harbor
Hotel de Haro
The crown jewel of Roche Harbor Resort, Hotel de Haro was built in 1886. This magnificent white clapboard building is as breathtaking as its harbor-side location. Its cobblestone walkways and lush garden invite gentle strolling. McMillin’s– the resort’s fine dining destination – is renowned for its prime rib. (This 40-day-aged, dry-rubbed, slow-roasted affair is sliced to order.) Also, not to be missed are the donuts at the Lime Kiln Café. These cake-like babies come plain, tossed in brown sugar or dipped in a variety of toppings. With so many from which to choose, they’re best enjoyed with a partner so you can sample more than one without feeling guilty.
Bonus: If you love taking a short hike, Roche Harbor’s mausoleum, Afterglow Vista, is roughly a half-mile from the resort. While it’s rumored to be haunted, no substantiated accounts of other-worldly beings have been reported. Rather, its enchanting forest surrounds and picturesque cobblestone pathways have made it a favorite for couples to take photos. Plus during the fall, the forests deciduous trees put on a colorful show.
Doe Bay Resort
Life moves slower at Doe Bay Resort on Orcas Island. Here, breathtaking views abound. Tucked in a small bay, this 38-acre getaway features a variety of lodging options, including a collection of yurts, the perfect “glamping” mix of simplicity and comfort. Their café, supplied by the resort’s own garden, features eco-friendly gourmet cuisine that’s fondly been dubbed “seed-to-table.”
Bonus: Your stay at Doe Bay includes access to the resort’s clothing-optional spa, where secluded soaking tubs are perched near the water’s edge.
The Edenwild
Framed by Fisherman Bay, The Edenwild’s Victorian-style farmhouse offers a quaint B&B destination. Located in the heart of Lopez Village, a variety of shops and cafes are well within walking distance. Each of the large rooms is furnished with antiques such as claw-foot tubs and brick fireplaces. The mornings feature a full breakfast.
Bonus: With its relatively flat topography, Lopez is one of the best cycling destinations in the San Juans. And, The Edenwild provides complimentary bicycles to guests on a first-come-first-served basis.
Rosario Resort and Spa
This 40-acre slice of old-world elegance rests beside the quiet waters of Cascade Bay. Its centerpiece, a 1909 Mission-style mansion, is perched at the tip of Rosario Point. Built by Seattle shipbuilder Robert Moran as an artistic retreat for his family, it is still home to many of the original features – including a 1,972 pipe Aeolian organ. Housed in the music room, the resort is known for its year-round concerts.
Bonus: Renowned chef, Raymond Southern, took over the resort’s kitchen in 2016. Since then, his commitment to fresh and seasonal ingredients has revolutionized the old school ‘meat and potato’ menu.
More Fun Things to do in the San Juans
9 BEST PLACES TO SNAP A SELFIE ON SAN JUAN ISLAND
If you’re San Juan bound, don’t miss your chance to snap a selfie by these epic lookouts, historic sites, and cute creatures!
Top Things to do With Kids in Friday Harbor
247 average days with sunshine, a reputation for wholesome fun, and more than 6 places to get freshly made pastries all make Friday Harbor is the ultimate kid-friendly getaway destination that the whole family will love.
SUSIE’S MOPEDS – FRESH AIR FREEDOM WITH A VIEW
With the sun on your face and two wheels at your command, San Juan Island is yours to explore – as fast or as slow as one of Susie’s Mopeds will take you.
