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The San Juan Islands span 172 named islands and reefs, however just three are served by regularly scheduled flights from Seattle; San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. Best known for their epic views, untouched wildlife, and regionally-inspired cuisine, the San Juans offer a wide range of things to do for families, couples, and friends.
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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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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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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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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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Sleepy grand firs, a rolling grass field, firepits, picnic tables, and a modern wood barn that seems to have been plucked from a romance novel: just a few of the reasons to visit this slice of vino paradise. Nestled at the base of Turtleback Mountain, Orcas Island Winery has become a community hub for locals and visitors alike.
With a boutique tasting room and a spacious (emphasis on space) outdoor venue, the family-owned winery feels like visiting your chosen family. Dog- and kid-friendly, it’s often a lively affair where parents lounge while littles roam. During the summer, live music and food trucks regularly take up residency on Friday nights — offering a festive atmosphere filled with laughter.
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Known as the gourmet archipelago, the San Juan Islands are home to some of the region’s best farm-to-table chefs. Thanks to their remote location, locally sourced ingredients aren’t just a nicety — they’re a necessity. The dining scene is laid back chic, with joints that would welcome you in heels as quickly as they would jeans. And the ambiance? It’s filled with rustic charm and stunning vistas.
This is the kind of foodie destination that calls for lingering. During Savor the San Juans, inquisitive diners can get a behind the scenes look at the islands’ farms, meet chefs, and partake in seasonal events.
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Some folks take years to become acquainted with the San Juan Islands. There’s a certain beauty in slowly acquainting yourself with the hemlock and peeling Madrone. The gourmet archipelago’s constantly evolving topography grows to as many as 743 rocks at low tide, showing off unspoiled coves and blue-green tidal waters. But for those who don’t have a decade (or more) to explore the rolling farmland, craggy coastline, and quaint island towns — we have the next best thing.
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Never has a bar felt so much like visiting someone’s home. And never has someone’s home had such enjoyable beer. San Juan Island Brewing Co. has all the elements that make a rural pub a quintessential part of a community — a large space, down-to-earth service, and local ownership. But unlike the English pub with dodgy cuisine and standard drinks, this San Juan Island watering hole has a gastropub worthy menu (at affordable price points) and seassionable beers flavorful enough to win awards (while tame enough to enjoy a few pints without wanting a nap).
“This whole place is driven by the community,” explained Tim Alyward, part owner at San Juan Island Brewing Co.
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You don’t have to be a boat lover to enjoy this boater’s paradise. Roche Harbor’s richly preserved history offers nineteenth-century clapboard buildings, old gardens, and incredible sunsets – all perfect for relaxing. Enjoy local seafood, some of the best doughnuts in the Pacific Northwest, and views of the surrounding mountains.
Whether you arrive by boat or seaplane, be sure to keep an eye out for pods of local orcas. They can frequently be seen playing in the waters surrounding the San Juan Islands, especially during the summer months.
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