Archive for category: Things to do in the San Juan Islands

During the fall, the San Juan Islands transform into a serene and colorful getaway, creating a safe haven for those seeking peace, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery. Autumn brings a slower rhythm to island life, making it the perfect time to unwind, explore, and enjoy the quiet charm of the Pacific Northwest.

Kenmore Air makes fall travel effortless and unforgettable with daily flights from Seattle on both seaplanes (through early or mid November depending on route) and Kenmore Air Express wheeled planes. You can skip the drive and be on “island time” in under an hour, soaring over sparkling waterways, evergreen forests, and quaint coastal towns before landing directly at your island destination.

Whether you crave a romantic weekend, a restorative solo retreat, or a cozy getaway with loved ones, Kenmore Air’s exclusive fly n’ stay travel packages make it effortless to plan the perfect island escape. Enjoy lower seasonal rates, fewer crowds, and a one of a kind getaway experience that showcase the heart and soul of island life reimagined for fall.

Why Travel in Fall?

• Fewer Crowds & Lower Rates: Shoulder season brings peace, privacy, and exceptional travel deals.
• Scenic Beauty: Gorgeous autumn scenery meets sparkling blue waters and misty mornings.
• Convenient Flights: Skip the long drive and fly direct from Seattle to your island retreat.
• Unique Fall Experiences: Seasonal dining, cozy spa days, whale watching, bonfires, and more.

Outlook Inn

Location: Orcas Island, WA

In the heart of Eastsound on Orcas Island, the Outlook Inn encompasses the perfect Pacific Northwest fall escape. Located only 80 miles northwest of Seattle, Washington, your quiet, getaway is just a quick, scenic Kenmore Air flight away. This island retreat blends the natural island beauty with refined comfort for travelers seeking restoration, connection, and elevated hospitality.

Wake to the gentle sounds of the Salish Sea, explore Eastsound’s local shops, or take in the crisp autumn air along the forested trails. The Outlook Inn offers spacious guestrooms and waterfront suites that combine modern amenities with coastal charm to make every moment on the island feel luxurious and relaxing. Fall on Orcas Island is also the perfect season for outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking along scenic trails, kayaking in peaceful coves, or indulging in wellness activities that restore the body and soul.

The New Leaf Cafe, the beloved on site restaurant is celebrated by the community for their local sourced, fresh ingredients to create their beloved brunch classics, vegetarian dishes, and handcrafted cocktails creating a tide-to-table dining experience. In the evening, enjoy seasonal dinners highlighting Pacific Northwest flavors with ingredients sourced from local vendors, complemented by an approachable wine list and local brews. Special offerings, including happy hour events and holiday dinners make dining at New Leaf Cafe a highlight of the island experience.

Fall on Orcas Island is the ideal season for quiet outdoor adventures. Enjoy the autumn scenery through the tranquil hiking trails or embrace wellness activities designed to refresh the body and mind. For those seeking a slower pace, Eastsound Village offers a variety of shops featuring handmade ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and other artisan crafts, perfect for leisurely browsing and connecting with the island’s creative spirit. Seasonal highlights include the Fall Market, held from the first weekend in October to the weekend before Thanksgiving, offering local foods, crafts, and a chance to experience community life on the island.

Outlook Inn “Best of Orcas Island” Package Includes: 

• 10% off your round-trip airfare on a Kenmore Air Express flight from Seattle/Boeing Field to Eastsound on Orcas Island for two guests
• 20% off Outlook Inn’s Best Flexible Rate
• One $100 Dining Credit to New Leaf Cafe
• Two (2) branded hand-crafted mugs from local ceramists, Forest Ceramic
• A copy of Ode: Orcas Island –  A glimpse of life, art, and the power of place on remote Orcas Island.

Doe Bay Resort and Retreats

Location: Orcas Island, WA

For a truly secluded and restorative fall escape, Doe Bay Resort and Retreat on Orcas Island offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, rustic charm, and curated relaxation. With the Fly, Stay, Save Doe Bay & Flight Package, you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the calm, secluded beauty of Orcas Island.

Sitting on 38 acres of pristine waterfront, Doe Bay Resort offers rustic yet charming cabins, yurts, and campsites that provide the foundation for a perfect fall getaway. At what once was a secret gem of the Pacific Northwest, Doe Bay has a rich history and a devoted following of fans both locally and worldwide.

While the resort is open year-round, the fall and winter provide a particularly calm and secluded experience, making it the ideal time to embrace quiet reflection and reconnect with nature. Walk quietly to Meditation Point and take in the playful sea life or take a hike up Mt. Constitution for breathtaking panoramic views. A highlight amenity is the Doe Bay Spa, which offers a variety of relaxation activities, including their soaking tubs, sauna, massages and yoga sessions, offering both communal and private rental options.

Doe Bay Café is a destination in itself, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many grown in Doe Bay’s very own organic garden. Every meal is crafted with care, often leaving guests declaring it the best dining experience on the island.

Doe Bay Fly, Stay, SAVE Package Includes:

• 10% off round-trip Kenmore Air Express flight from Seattle’s Boeing Field to Eastsound on Orcas Island
• 30% off Doe Bay accommodations
• Complimentary private or communal spa session (subject to availability)
• $50 credit per person for the Doe Bay Cafe or General Store

Friday Harbor House

Escape to the serene beauty of San Juan Island with a stay at Friday Harbor House, perched on a bluff overlooking the marina and offering stunning views of the Salish Sea. With Kenmore Air, your island getaway is effortless. You can choose between a wheeled plane flight from Boeing Field or a seasonal seaplane flight from Seattle/Lake Union or Kenmore/Lake Washington to start your island adventure in comfort and style.

Whether arriving by seaplane or wheeled plane, you’ll enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey that sets the tone for a relaxing and unforgettable island getaway. This modern, charming hotel combines comfort, style, and convenience, making it ideal for romantic escapes, babymoon retreats, or easy-going trips with friends and family. Guests enjoy luxury guestrooms with king beds, most offering stunning views of the marina, ferry landings, San Juan Channel, and even Mount Constitution on Orcas Island. The hotel is just steps from the downtown hub of the island, providing access to art galleries, boutique shops, bookstores, and local eateries, while maintaining a sense of peaceful seclusion.

At the heart of the experience is The Restaurant at Friday Harbor House, where a seasonal menu highlights local ingredients and flavors. From indulgent burgers and fresh pastas to creative craft cocktails, every meal promises to be memorable. Evening fireside nights on the patio offer the perfect way to unwind, sip a cocktail, and watch boats float in the marina.

Exploration extends beyond the hotel with nearby attractions such as Roche Harbor, San Juan Island Sculpture Park, The Farm at Krystal Acres, San Juan Vineyard, and San Juan Island Brewing Co., providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, wine tasting, and local culture.

Friday Harbor House Package Includes:

• Round-trip airfare for two (2) on a Kenmore Air Express or Seasonal Floatplane Flight
• Luxury overnight accommodations at Friday Harbor House
• $100 Dining Credit to The Restaurant at Friday Harbor House
• Bottle of Sparkling Wine
• Transportation assistance

Edenwild Inn

Location: Lopez Village, Lopez Island, WA

For those seeking charm, creativity, and calm this fall, Edenwild Inn offers an intimate escape in the heart of Lopez Island. Often called “the Friendly Isle,” Lopez is known for its welcoming spirit, open landscapes, and charming village atmosphere. This boutique inn captures the essence of island life – quiet, comfortable, and full of heart. Fall in the islands brings in a slower pace, a welcoming community spirit, and time to enjoy Lopez Island’s stunning waterfront, farm-to-table dining, and outdoor adventure.

With the new year-round Kenmore Air Express flights operating out of Boeing Field, getting to Lopez has never been easier or faster. With Kenmore Air you can you skip the long drive and ferry with flights from Seattle’s Boeing Field to Lopez Island, offering a breathtaking scenic tour of the Pacific Northwest.

Fall is the best time to visit Lopez — with its lowest prices of the year and far fewer visitors, it’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to recharge. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows at a beach bonfire, exploring tide pools, or simply enjoying the view from your window, Edenwild lets you experience the magic of Lopez at your own pace.

Fall in the San Juan Islands is particularly unique. The weather is still sunny (thanks to the 247 average days with sunshine), while the summer crowds have begun to thin. Farm tours and festivals abound (thanks to Savor the San Juans). And, the foliage is bursting with color. In short, there are a plethora of fun things to do in the San Juan Islands this fall. 

Island life is slow and beautiful in Friday Harbor. Here, the streets feature roundabouts rather than stoplights and restaurants showcase farm-to-table cuisine. Perched one block above the Friday Harbor Marina, Friday Harbor House is ideally positioned for the ultimate weekend getaway. 

This quaint San Juan Island hotel offers expansive views of seaplanes landing and ferry boats docking. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of the entire downtown core, while still feeling removed enough to give you a sense of solitude. Not to mention, it’s home to one the best restaurants on the island — The Restaurant at Friday Harbor House. 

Orcas Island has all of the ingredients for a perfect getaway in the Pacific Northwest. There are beautiful lodging options, miles of hiking trails that traverse a rich topography and offer stunning views. You’ll find a plethora of fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and locally-crafted libations. 

This isn’t the destination for a fast-paced dance club, though you will find several restaurants and bars host live music nights. But the things to do on Orcas Island are plentiful and rewarding. Artist studios. Golfing. Farmers markets. Clothing optional soaking tubs. The list goes on and on. These are some of our favorites.