Kenmore Air Otter and Cattle Point Lighthouse

9 Ways to Get from Seattle to the San Juan Islands

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Kenmore Air de Havilland Otter flying past Cattle Point Lighthouse

Though the quaint archipelago tucked within the Salish Sea is technically part of Washington State, it feels a bit like its own country. Heck, some of its rocky inlets are closer to Canada than they are to the American mainland. But the 172-plus islands in the Olympic Rainshadow don’t require a passport and are relatively easy to access — if you know what you’re doing. 

The following outlines 9 ways to travel from Seattle to the San Juan Islands. But at its most primitive level, there are only two ways to get here: by boat or plane. The nature of being surrounded by water on all sides makes this remote destination exactly that, remote. That’s part of the charm, part of what keeps this paradise a destination worthy of visiting year-round.

And the great news is, whether you’re flying from Boeing Field to Friday Harbor or catching a seaplane from Lake Union to Roche Harbor — the views are endless and check-in is a breeze!

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Mineral Pools at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Oak Bay Beach Hotel Wellness Weekend Getaway

Oak Bay Beach Hotel Mineral Pools

There is a reason Victoria remains one of the most romantic and refreshing destinations on the West Coast. Its coastal views and temperate weather offer an elegant reprieve from the drizzle that often plagues the Greater Seattle area. Historic charm abounds in the BC Capital, as does a thriving food scene that’s rooted in farm-to-table cuisine. Here, a commitment to whole-body wellness is matched with an often unmentioned friendliness. It’s a dynamic combo that has made Victoria a haven for those looking to rest and refresh. And no place speaks to this epic sense of retreat more than the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. 

Voted #7 Hotel in Western Canada by the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards, Oak Bay Beach Hotel in British Columbia offers the ultimate wellness weekend experience. 

And what’s more, it doesn’t take all day to reach with a convenient, direct flight to Victoria Inner Harbour or Victoria International Airport. Kenmore Air also provides service from San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor Marina direct to Victoria Inner Harbour!

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Friday Harbor Golden Hour. Photo by BrendanHunter

Relaxing Winter Escape to San Juan Island

Friday Harbor Golden. Photo by BrendanHunter

Washington’s gourmet archipelago is undoubtedly known for its sun-filled summer days and fruit-laden farmers markets. But don’t assume this sweet little paradise closes up shop during the winter. While some businesses and residents like to hibernate until spring, there are still plenty of relaxing things to do on San Juan Island during the holidays. 

In fact, visiting the San Juan’s during the winter might even be your favorite! The slower pace and lack of crowds give you more freedom to linger and enjoy your getaway. Not to mention, getting to San Juan Island from Seattle is as easy as catching a 45-minute scenic flight from Boeing Field!

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Seattle Skyline

30 Things to do in Seattle this Winter (2024)

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Seattle Skyline

Published Nov. 7, 2019 | Last Updated November 23, 2024

Sure, Seattle gets the ‘occasional’ rainy day during the winter. But natives have long since learned that the grey skies aren’t a reason to write off the Emerald City. In fact, with its plethora of cozy refuges, lively winter events, and inspiring museums, you’ll never be short of unique things to do this winter in Seattle.

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Top Rainy-Day Activities in the San Juan Islands

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couple on a rainy day in Friday Harbor

Originally Published Dec. 19, 2019 | Updated Nov. 13, 2024

Thanks to being located in the heart of the Olympic Rain Shadow, the San Juan Islands enjoy an average of 270 days with sunshine. But, that doesn’t mean it never rains. The lush forests and fertile farmland are proof that they San Juans get their fair share of drizzle — especially during the cooler months. Luckily, there are a plethora of things to do in the San Juan Islands when it rains.

There are a variety of ways to get from Seattle to San Juan Island and Orcas Island, the fastest and (in our humble opinion) most beautiful way is to fly. We offer regular flights from Boeing Field to Eastsound Airport and Friday Harbor. Seasonally, we also offer seaplane flights from Lake Washington and Lake Union to the San Juan Islands.

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Couple outside the fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck

20 Things to Do in Victoria this Winter (2024)

Couple near Fairmont Empress. Photo by Destination BC and Jordan Dyck

Some might ask, “Why visit Victoria this winter?” But don’t let this northern gem fool you into thinking it has closed up shop. While the hanging baskets are stored for the season, there are still a plethora of fun things to do in Victoria this winter.

Sure, you’ll want to pack a good jacket. But don’t worry that exploring will put you at risk of frostbite, as it will throughout much of North America. The BC Capital is tucked at the edge of the Olympic Rain Shadow, making winters relatively mild and an early spring a common occurrence.

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Christmas at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria BC

Christmas in Victoria B.C. at the Fairmont Empress & Beyond

Parliament Buildings Christmas

Christmas in Victoria, B.C., is a magical experience. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal events, and charming traditions. The world-renowned flower displays at The Butchart Gardens become a dazzling display of lights, while the iconic Fairmont Empress turns into a winter wonderland filled with charm and intrigue. 

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Dinner at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton

Clive’s Classic Lounge Chef Josh Chilton

Dinner spread at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton

Come for the craft cocktails. Stay for the fuss-free, locally sourced cuisine.

Clive’s Classic Lounge has the essence of a sultry speakeasy — a windowless bar, moody lighting, and plush seating where one might linger a little closer to their partner. 

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HAVN tubs

Destination-Worthy Self-Care

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HAVN in Victoria

Like chicken soup for the soul, self-care offers the opportunity to relax and recharge. It’s the soothing remedy for a fast-paced life where meetings can pile up and deadlines loom. 

But the practice of self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. From ocean-side soaking tubs and rejuvenating facials to farm-to-table cuisine, we all need something a bit different. As the summer season tapers into cool crisp days, take a moment to let yourself relax and replenish. Discover some of the best destination-worthy self-care getaways in the San Juans, Victoria, and beyond!

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Tea at the Fairmont Empress

Experience Timeless Elegance: Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea

Fairmont Empress High Tea

Nestled at the edge of the Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress stands as a majestic icon of luxury and history. This grand hotel has been a cornerstone of Victoria’s charm for over a century. No experience is more iconic here than indulging in the renowned Afternoon Tea at the Empress.

Whether visiting the BC capital for the day or enjoying an extended getaway, this is an unforgettable afternoon delight. Wrapped in elegance and sophistication, it gives you a glimpse into a royal tradition. 

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