9 Romantic San Juan Island Winter Escapes
Slow-paced island life, farm-to-table cuisine, and intimate accommodations make the San Juan Islands the perfect romantic escape this winter.
From Lopez and Orcas to Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor, discover some of our favorite romantic places to cuddle up with your someone special.
Tucker House Inn, San Juan Island
Just steps from the Friday Harbor Marina, this quaint B&B is tucked in a quiet residential neighborhood. Owned and operated in conjunction with Harrison House Suites, the Tucker House Inn’s labyrinth of Victorian buildings and cottages were built in 1898. The elegant architecture is matched by beautifully cared for grounds – which feature delectable edibles like a blueberry bush and fresh herbs. Eco-friendly and pet-friendly, this idyllic destination is particularly well known for its two-course breakfast served each morning of your stay.
Friday Harbor House, San Juan Island
Located two blocks from the Friday Harbor seaplane dock, the Friday Harbor House offers a modern twist to seaside lodging. Each room features an oversized Jacuzzi and gas fireplace. Fidalgo Bay Coffee is freshly ground and put in your room on your arrival, so you can enjoy a cup of pour-over jo without even leaving your room. The inn’s exquisite restaurant boasts water views and a selection of authentic San Juan Island cuisine.
Earth Box Inn & Spa, San Juan Island
Take a moment to reground yourselves in the simplicity of Mother Nature’s tones mimicking the earth, sun, sea, and sky. The indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna are perfect for a dip and steam together. But the real star here is the on-site Day Spa, which offers a variety of traditional and hot stone massages, wraps, facials, and foot therapies.
Rosario Resort, Orcas Island
Tucked beside Cascade Bay, Rosario Resort’s elegant craftsman style mansion was finished in 1909. Built by Seattle shipbuilder and Mayor Robert Moran, it is richly appointed with elegant woodwork, a 1,972-pipe organ, and a 1900 Steinway Grand Piano. Complimentary concerts take place Saturdays at 4:00 PM. The performances are breathtakingly beautiful. And be sure to make a reservation at the Mansion Restaurant, where renowned chef Raymond Southern is putting modern twists on old classics.
Roche Harbor Resort, San Juan Island
On the Northern end of San Juan Island, where the water is calm and the cellphone service is sometimes spotty, rests Roche Harbor Resort. Once a lime kiln factory, this elegant estate is now a favorite destination for leisurely travelers and boaters. It offers a plethora of outdoor activities ranging from kayaking to hiking. During the summer, its cobblestone walks bustle with activity as visitors meander through manicured gardens and savor donuts fresh from the fryer. While the summer is nice, the quiet of winter makes this a favorite for those who want to cuddle close and enjoy an upscale prime rib dinner, where the house-made horseradish will wow your taste buds.
The Edenwild Boutique Inn, Lopez Island
Don’t arrive planning to binge-watch your favorite sitcom on a big screen TV. The Edenwild Boutique Inn is a TV free zone. While they do offer complimentary WiFi, this Lopez Island gem is best designed for unplugging. Its spacious rooms feature full baths and unique amenities like large soaking tubs and wood burning fireplaces. Mornings start with scratch baked goodies, fresh fruit parfaits, and Lopez Island coffee. Bike and kayak rentals are available on site for those who wish to explore. But with the wraparound porch and stunning ocean views, you may just want to cuddle up and never leave!
Inn at Ship Bay, Orcas Island
This stylish, contemporary inn is located in an 1869 renovated farmhouse. Just one mile from Eastsound, the inn is nestled by the idyllic waters of Ship Bay and overlooks Madrona Point. The restaurant is of particular note. Known for its use of high quality, sustainably sourced ingredients, its seasonal menu changes regularly. And, its freshly baked sourdough is proofed from a starter that’s over 100 years old.
MacKaye Harbor Inn, Lopez Island
Located at the southern end of Lopez Island, MacKaye Harbor Inn was formerly home to a sea captain. The view pays homage to its first owner with striking views of the sea. The rooms are cheerfully furnished with golden-oak and brass details. Breakfast includes house specialties, such as Finish pancakes. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to reserve the Harbor Suite, you’ll be treated to a private bath, deck, and fireplace.
Outlook Inn and New Leaf Café, Orcas Island
Tucked at the edge of Eastsound, the Outlook Inn is just steps from some of Orcas Island’s best novelty shops, bakeries, and restaurants. Its waterfront location offers views of Fishing Bay and Indian Island. The staff is known for being exceptionally friendly. And, the inn’s restaurant, New Leaf Café, is praised for its unpretentious elegance and sea-to-table cuisine.
Bird Rock Hotel, San Juan Island
Located just a short walk from the Friday Harbor Marina, Bird Rock Hotel offers a boutique small town experience. Praised for its comfort and charm, this elegant hotel’s historic exterior is complemented by its modern interior which features upscale amenities such as Jacuzzi suites and harbor views.
Doe Bay Resort and Retreat, Orcas Island
Doe Bay gives ‘rustic’ a new name. While their seaside cottages and yurts may not be the most refined resort experience you’ll ever have, this idyllic destination has a charm that’s unparalleled. A visit to their clothing optional spa is enough to make anyone relax – especially with its water views. And, let’s not forget about the restaurant where the seed-to-table cuisine will blow your mind with its incredible flavors.
MORE ORCAS ISLAND ADVENTURES
DOE BAY ON ORCAS ISLAND
Doe Bay on Orcas Island has long been known for its unique laid-back vibe. But this idyllic destination is as equally prized for its unpretentious, seed-to-table cuisine.
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!
BROWN BEAR BAKING ON ORCAS ISLAND
In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, Brown Bear Baking on Orcas Island serves pastries worthy of praise.
CHEF RAYMOND SOUTHERN IS REVOLUTIONIZING ROSARIO RESORT
With its craftsman style exterior and 1,972 pipe organ, Rosario Resort has often been praised for its old world elegance. But since 2016, Raymond Southern took over the kitchen and the buzz surrounding this historic site has been a bit more edible.
