Visiting local farmers market is like immersing yourself in the heartbeat of a region. Among the stalls the seasons rule, art is celebrated, and locals chitchat over the latest happenings.
Read moreTo bear hug is to envelop with love. It’s fitting David Ellertsen and Lee Hirswill posted a sign on their kitchen’s exit that reads, “Until We Meet Again – Bear Hugs”.
That’s what the partners are dishing up at Brown Bear Baking, their Orcas Island bakery. In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, David and Lee share a big hug and lots of love with each person who visits.
When they opened in 2013, their menu featured just seven items – including their signature pecan sticky bun. Nearly the size of a dinner plate, this monstrosity borders on dessert with its nut-crusted top and soft interior.
Today, the locally owned and operated bakery is more café-esc in its offerings. The scratch-made menu has been expanded to include a seasonally-inspired collection of hearty soups and sandwiches. The fellas are even pickling their own veggies!
Formerly residing in Las Vegas, baking was initially just a passion for the two men. David and Lee, previously an architect and creative director respectively, spent their vacations at the San Francisco Baking Institute. “We took classes a week at a time because that’s what we could manage with work,” explained David as he pulled a tray of Brown Butter Toffee Cookies from the oven.
With an open-kitchen concept, the aroma of the cookies engulfed the entire restaurant and slipped outside onto the sidewalk. Pedestrians passing paused to breathe a little deeper. David smiled at the eight-inch diameter cookies. And, I tried to calm my growling tummy.
If you want your pick of pastries, I strongly recommend arriving early in the day – especially during the summer. It’s not uncommon for the pastry case to quickly sell out. Come for your morning coffee. (They make a great pour with Victrola coffee, locally roasted in Seattle.) Snag a slice of their rich quiche. (The egg-cream pies are loaded with vegetarian and meat options.) Then finish off your meal with a sweet treat, like one of their delicate aux amandes or seasonal apple gallettes.
Book your tip to Orcas Island!
MORE FUN THINGS TO DO ON ORCAS ISLAND
Hiking Cascade Falls
In a sun-dappled forest grove, a fresh-water creek tumbles down the 40-foot rock cliff and runs beneath fallen tree trunks.
Free Organ Concerts at Rosario Resort
There’s more to Rosario Resort than its picturesque setting. Moran Mansion is home to both a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and a 1900 Steinway grand piano, where free public concerts are regularly offered.
Why Orcas Island Should be Your Next Girl’s Getaway
Low-key adventures loaded with scenic views and an internationally acclaimed food and wine scene, make Orcas Island the ideal testosterone-free, comfy jean destination.
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.
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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.
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.
This is a nature lover’s retreat with rustic cabins, waterfront campsites, and yurts. Amenities include a yoga studio and outdoor soaking tubs with incredible views of the Rosario Straights and the rugged landscape. Guests tend to exhale as they arrive, leave the stresses of modern living at the gates and lean into the peaceful sanctuary of the gorgeous property.
The highlight for me however is the unpretentious, seed-to-table restaurant with a talented chef turning out unique regional cuisine. Orcas Island is on the map for people who travel hungry and the Doe Bay Café is a can’t miss destination for a fabulous meal.
Read moreKara Navradszky was just three-years-old when she made her first piece of living jewelry. Little did she know her passion for daisy chain necklaces would transform into a boutique floral design and jewelry business.
Home-based in Friday Harbor, Kara specializes in ‘wearables’ — elegant jewelry featuring living florals. Her first formal foray into floral jewelry was during high school art class. She learned to make haku hair wreaths — a Hawaiian flower crown.
After earning her Bachelor’s in Anthropology from the University of Washington, Kara continued her floral education. While teaching English in Japan, she also studied Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging.
But the path from flower class to floral jewelry designer wasn’t a direct one. Kara first sailed the Pacific Coast from Seattle to Mexico, became a surf instructor, fell in love, got married, moved to Friday Harbor, and had her first baby. (She and her husband, Emmet Sherwood, are now the proud parents of two adorable toddlers.)
But her artistic enthusiasm for flowers never ceased. In 2015, Kara began making flower crowns for little girls at Roche Harbor. “The problem was, the flowers were so perishable. So, I started researching opportunities for something that was less perishable. That’s when I found succulents,” said Kara.
The succulents were a game changer. Using a non-toxic glue, Kara mounts the plants in a moss bed attached to a piece of jewelry. Her ornate bracelets, necklaces, and crowns are fitted with flowers from Kara’s own garden.
A post shared by Kara (@apothecadesign) on Feb 5, 2018 at 11:49pm PST
Through word-of-mouth and her Instagram account (@apothecadesign), pieces are generally commissioned to recognize a milestone, such as a graduation, marriage or new baby. “I love that each piece I create is designed to celebrate an individual. I spend a lot of time thinking about who’s giving the gift and who’s receiving the gift,” Kara explained.
As the name suggests, living jewelry continues to grow. Pieces remain photo ready for roughly two weeks, but can often be worn for up to two months. By that time, the plants outgrow their platform. The jewelry can then become an elegant bedside arrangement. Sections of the succulent can be broken off and replanted. Or the wearable art can be reassembled to create a new piece.
That’s one of the things Kara loves most about her work — it’s lack of permanence. “Flower Art has a fleeting beauty, much like a Buddhist Sand Mandala. It’s meant to be enjoyed in the moment. But what sets living jewelry apart is that each piece has a life of its own,” Kara said.
Making Living Jewelry
Selecting the Flowers
For a commissioned piece, Kara will spend an hour or so selecting flowers — often from her own garden. “I’ll wander through the garden with a big basket, looking at what’s fresh and what speaks to me,” says Kara.
Depending on who is giving and who is getting one of her pieces, Kara may use succulents, fresh flowers or greenery. Or some a combination of all three!
Mounting
The plants are mounted on a piece of jewelry that serves as a wearable foundation. Sometimes this is a dipped silver or brushed brass cuff. Other times it may be a headband or delicate string.
To the jewelry, Kara attaches a boss base. Using a non-toxic glue, she attaches the flowers — carefully nestling the living plants beside one another.
Celebrating
It’s always a celebration to give one of her pieces. This summer, MacKenzie Lommel requested several pieces for a photoshoot to celebrate her final trimester.
Kara joined the beautiful mom-to-be and her family for the shoot, helping to ensure the necklace, flower wreath, and moon-inspired flower arrangement were perfectly placed. San Juan Island-based photographer, Cere Demuth captured MacKenzie and her family on the beach — where they shared intimate moments wading in the water and walking along the shore.
Living Jewelry on Display
This August, you can find Kara and samplings of her work at the 2018 San Juan Summer Arts Festival. Held at Brickworks Brickworks Plaza in Friday Harbor August 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st.
Check Out Kara’s Work in Person
About Cere Demuth
A practicing psychotherapist and published author, Cere occasionally photographs clients on San Juan Island and Orcas Island. Her work captures the intimate moments and highlight the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Her recently published memoir, The Way We Stay, is an exquisitely told story of heartbreaking love, vulnerability, faith, and healing.
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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.
HIKING SOUTH BEACH TRAIL
Windswept grasslands and breathtaking views make the southernmost tip of San Juan Island the perfect location for a day hike.
In the horseshoe of Orcas Island, perched on the rocks above Cascade Bay, Rosario Resort’s stately white exterior beckons the leisurely traveler with exceptional food and stunning views. But there’s more to this waterfront oasis than its picturesque setting. Completed in 1909, the old-world elegance of Moran Mansion is home to both a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and a 1900 Steinway grand piano.
Tuesday through Saturday at 4:00 PM, the musical instruments take center stage during free concerts held in the mansion’s Music Room.
The presentation is led by an accomplished musician, author, and Rosario historian, Christopher Peacock. It includes both musical performances and a historical narrative. Christopher will often play music from Phantom of the Opera, which eloquently highlights the organ’s 1,972 pipes.
(Beginning mid-September, concerts are only available Saturdays.)
About the Mansion
In the late 1800s, Robert Moran arrived in Seattle with just a dime in his pocket. Through hard work and ingenuity, he became arguably the most well-respected shipbuilder of his time. He even won the naval contract to build the battleship U.S.S. Nebraska.
But the work took its toll. Advised by doctors that he only had a few years left to live he bought 7,000 acres on Orcas Island in 1904. Moran discovered, as many island residents can attest, just how good island life can be for your health — he lived until 1943!
The mansion took several years to complete, in large part because of Moran’s commitment to craftsmanship. From the rich mahogany paneling to the stained glass lighting, no detail was too small.
Vanilla? If that’s your scoop. But these Pacific Northwest ice cream shops are dishing up a flavor-packed array of cold treats that go way beyond the bean. Discover six of the best ice cream joints in the San Juans, Victoria, Vancouver, and Seattle.
Clever Cow Creamery
Located in the heart of Orcas Island’s Eastsound, this quaint shop features more than 30 rotating flavors of ultra-creamy homemade ice cream. Traditional shakes and sundaes are also available, as are the delightfully caffeine-loaded affogatos (a scoop of ice cream topped with a shot of espresso).
Lopez Island Creamery
More than 20 years ago, Lopez Island Creamery started churning handmade ice cream — one batch at a time. Operating out of a kitchen no bigger than a bedroom, they developed flavors by trading samples for feedback. Today, this island gem is known for having some of the best ice cream in the Seattle area. You can find their cold treats at retail stores and restaurants throughout the Pacific Northwest, including the Lopez Village Market and San Juan Food Co-Op.
Cold Comfort
Creative flavors; locally-sourced, organic ingredients; and a proclivity for booze-infused scoops have earned this Victoria ice cream joint a country-wide following. (In a 2016 BuzzFeed poll, Canadians rated Cold Comfort the fifth best ice cream in all of Canada!)
Favorite flavors include Gin and Tonic (made from local gin and local tonic concentrate), Avocado, and Cinnamon Toast. Those with dietary restrictions will be pleased by their selection of dairy free, (unofficially) “gluten-free” ice cream sandwich cookies, vegan, and occasionally available diabetic friendly selections.
Jackson’s Ice Cream
If you believe in floating on a flavor-packed sugar high, Jackson’s Ice Cream is just for you. Located at Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf, this ice cream stand offers a variety of scooped and soft-served treats. They even have a kid-size menu perfect for your little ones.
Brown Paper Packages
This Vancouver dessert stop makes the kind of ice cream sandwiches that make grown men giggle like schoolgirls. Scoops, pints, floats and sundaes are also available at Brown Paper Packages. But really, why would you not opt for your creamy ice cream to be wedged between two detectibly soft cookies? As the name would suggest, sandwiches come wrapped in brown paper. Sandwich flavors lean towards grown-up, with a constantly changing selection that may include raspberry with chocolate cookies and cardamom with lemon almond cookies.
Bella Gelateria
Heavy on the milk and light on the air, Bella Gelateria’s gelato is well-known for its ultra-creamy texture. Located just blocks from Canada Place in downtown Vancouver, it’s the perfect sweet treat to enjoy while out for a sunny stroll. Favorites include hazelnut and stracciatella (chocolate chip). But don’t overlook their seasonal varieties, such as summer strawberry.
Bluebird Ice Cream
Travel back to the time of soda fountains, where jovial banter with your ice-cream wielding bartender is the norm. At Seattle’s Bluebird Ice Cream, you’ll find vintage kitchen gadgets and diner-style glass sundae cups and sweet homemade waffle cones loaded with inventive flavors. This micro-ice cream chain offers small-batch flavors range from Elysian stout and snickerdoodle to Meyer lemon and dark chocolate cherry cabernet.
Fainting Goat Gelato
While well-known Molly Moon’s may be down the street, Seattleites have developed a love for Fainting Goat (thanks to its shorter lines and ultra-creamy gelato). Family-owned and operated, each batch is made in-house with locally-sourced organic milk. Flavors rotate daily, but may include bilberry, spicy chocolate, and sour cherry swirl.
Like every small town, Roche Harbor has its own unique traditions that keep the locals stepping in time and the tourists relishing their vacation. The mornings at this water-side village begin with carillons from Our Lady of Good Voyage and hot donuts, freshly made at the Lime Kiln Café.
Jo Jo makes the donuts Monday through Friday. She opens the kitchen way too early (at least by this lady’s standards) and goes straight to work mixing batter and heating oil. She’ll make about 100 donuts a day during the shoulder season. During the busy summer months, the production is an entirely different story – Jo Jo will make several hundred a day!
As a San Juan Island native, Jo Jo’s favorite donut is vanilla with sprinkles; or wait, maybe her favorite is cinnamon and sugar, when it’s hot. Really, it’s both. And it has been since the Lime Kiln Café was just a tiny kitchen on the pier.
Back then, the restaurant was a simple walk-up window – a far cry from the established diner we now know. The little kitchen, then known as Johnny R’s, earned a devoted fanbase for its perfect fried confections. While the building has changed, name evolved, and menu grown, the fresh doughnuts have remained a mainstay.
These sweet treats keep the locals fortified and the visitors hungry for more. They are perfect when paired with strong coffee and a second donut (just sayin’).
Few things put the happy in ‘Happy Holidays’ like small-town charm. From tree lightings and artisan fairs to holidays concerts and festivals, Christmas in the San Juan Islands abounds with things to do. These are some of our favorites.
Christmas in the San Juan Islands
November 18 – January 6: Holiday Art Show at WaterWorks Gallery (San Juan Island)
Located in quaint Friday Harbor, WaterWorks Gallery is a contemporary light-filled space. The gallery features artists from the San Juan Islands and throughout Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.
During the 2017 holiday season, this local boutique is featuring a special show of unique gifts perfect for friends and loved one. The selection includes jewelry, ornaments, paintings, and sculptures.
November 24: Village Gathering & Holiday Lighting (Lopez Island)
Once the turkey’s been eaten and the leftovers stored, Lopez islanders gather to celebrate the start of Christmas. This annual event features a torch light parade, caroling, and the lighting of lights at Lopez Village. Food is provided by local businesses and warm clothing is strongly recommended.
November 24 – November 25: Olga Symphony, More or Less (Orcas Island)
For nearly 20 years, the Olga Symphony has celebrated the season with a musical extravaganza. This year’s performances will feature the guitar, fiddle, bass, banjo, mandolin, saw, and of course – vocals.
November 24 – November 25: San Juan Island Artisan Holiday Marketplace (San Juan Island)
For the 39th year, the best artists from San Juan Island will gather at the Friday Harbor Elementary School to share their work. Selections range from soaps, lotions, and island-made food to jewelry, paintings, and clothes.
Local caterer Paella will be providing snacks. And, proceeds will benefit the Island Artisans Scholarship Fund.
November 25: Holiday Festival of Arts (Orcas Island)
Held at the Orcas Senior Center, the Holiday Arts Festival on Orcas Island features hand-crafted works from artists throughout the region.
November 25: Holiday Bazaar (Lopez Island)
From gift shopping to live music, the 38th annual Lopez Pre-School Holiday Bazaar is holiday festivities are its best. 70 vendors are planning to attend. A special children’s corner will be set up with crafts and games. Raffle prizes will be distributed throughout the day. And, a bake sale will feature a variety of tasty treats!
December 1: Island Lights Festival (San Juan Island)
This magical Friday Harbor holiday celebration has become a favorite for those near and far. It features Santa pictures at Brickworks, crafts at the Whale Museum, and hot chocolate at the Riptide Café. Plus, there will be caroling, treats, and – of course – the tree lighting!
December 1: Eastsound Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting (Orcas Island)
Orcas Island locals and visitors will kick off the holidays with a healthy dose of small-town fun at the Eastsound Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance. Live music will be playing. Hot cider and cookies will be served. And of course, the tree will be lit!
December 1 – December 3: Friday Harbor Winterfest 2017 (San Juan Island)
Step back in time. Experience a magical European-style Christmas at the Friday Harbor Winterfest. Held at Brickworks, you’ll have the chance to savor homemade soup, homemade mac and cheese, and freshly baked bread. Activities will be available for the little ones. Life holiday music will abound. A spirits garden will be open. And, local artisans will be showing off their wares.
December 1 – December 31: Rosario Resort 7th Annual Festival of Trees (Orcas Island)
Visiting the San Juan Islands in December? This is a can’t miss event. The old-world elegance of Moran Mansion will once again welcome the festive charm of Christmas Trees during Orcas Island’s annual Festival of Trees. Seven local non-profits will decorate a tree. For just a $1 per ticket, visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree. Proceeds will benefit participating organizations.
While you can visit and vote throughout the month of December, a special Open House will be held December 8 through December 10, featuring complimentary hot apple cider and cookies.
December 2: Orcas Library Holiday Silver Tea (Orcas Island)
For the last 55 years, the annual Holiday Silver Tea has been a beloved tradition for Orcas Island residents and visitors alike. Held at the Orcas Island Public Library, this festive event features cookies, sandwiches, local music talent, and tea! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be stopping by to say hello. And, of course, your favorite librarians will also be in attendance.
December 2 – December 3: Artisan Fair at Odd Fellows Hall (Orcas Island)
Featuring 40 local vendors, this annual artisan fair offers a celebratory opportunity to shop for holiday gifts. Featuring 40 local vendors from throughout the San Juan Islands, you’ll find a wide range of carefully crafted items including: jewelry, clothing, body care products, ceramic and textile products, gourmet baked and much more. A special lunch will be provided at the Odd Fellows restaurant, located downstairs.
December 2 – December 3: Lopez Islander Resort Annual Holiday Craft Fair (Lopez Island)
Local Craft Vendors will gather to show off their artistic talents at this fun annual holiday craft fair. Come join in the Holiday spirit and accomplish your Holiday shopping.
December 13 – December 17: A Christmas Carol (Orcas Island)
We all have the power to become kinder, wiser, and more generous. That’s the powerful message of A Christmas Carol. The inspiring performances will feature uplifting music, the story of Scrooge, and lots of laughs.
December 16 – December 17: Nutcracker (San Juan Island)
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the Nutcracker. Presented by the Salish Sea Ballet, this world-famous holiday classic will delight those of all ages. Showcasing an original ballet choreography, the performance has been designed to celebrate San Juan Island’s culture while staying true to the Nutcracker’s classical roots.
December 20: The Nutcracker (Orcas Island)
As the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, Marie’s wooden nutcracker on Orcas Island transforms into a prince. This Christmas classic ballet is a timeless story filled with enchantment and magic – featuring lively music and inspiring choreography.
December 19 – December 20: The Seven Joys of Christmas (San Juan Island)
Winter songs and holiday carols will abound as the San Juan Island Community chorus celebrates Christmas. Held at the San Juan Community Theater, anthems and poems will also be performed.
Discover More Fun Things to do in the San Juan Islands
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!
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.
Where the Gilmore Girls Would Eat in Friday Harbor
Can’t you just imagine Rory and Lorelai relishing the quaint island getaway the is Friday Harbor? The Gilmore Girls would indeed nibbling (or gobble) their way through it.
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 which can frequently be seen playing in the waters surrounding the San Juan Islands.
Friday
7:00 PM – Dinner at Madrona Bar and Grill
Stroll in for a laid back meal at the Madrona Bar and Grill where the seafood is fresh and the drinks are flavorful. Among the menu favorites is the prawn and avocado margarita cocktail. Packed with black tiger prawns, this baby is garnished with a smooth touch of avocado and a kick of homemade, wasabi infused cocktail sauce.
Saturday
9:00 AM – Breakfast at the Lime Kiln Café
Doughnuts at the Lime Kiln Café might just be the best in the Pacific Northwest. These cake like babies are certainly a far cry from your Krispy Kreme, national chain experience. This mom and pop joint makes theirs fresh daily in a variety of flavors including: cinnamon sugar, chocolate frosting and maple glaze. Beyond the sugar-fried goodness, they dish up some savory options worth snagging a seat to enjoy. Sit on the deck for a view of the marina.
10:30 AM – Stretch your legs with the alpacas
Three miles from Roche Harbor are 80-acres of gently rolling grass hills. Speckled with shade from 100-year-old oaks, the Krystal Acres Alpacas farm is an idyllic setting for stretching your legs. Their large alpaca herd roams the grounds, totaling 80 in number and still growing. Have alpaca questions? Keep an eye out for Kristen (aka Kris), one of the owners. She can frequently be found tending the herd in her signature green coveralls. For a take-home memento, visit their Country Store where you’ll find a vast selection of alpaca toys, clothing, and accessories.
Krystal Acres Alpacas – 3501 West Valley Rd., Friday Harbor
12:30 PM – Dig in on Fresh Seafood
Located at the bottom of the ramp on Roche Harbor’s main dock, this summer-only stand sells fresh seafood. Caught in the morning and sold in the afternoon, North Sound Seafood typically has a selection of shrimp and crab, plus smoked salmon. This year, local owner and operator, Keith Porter, will expand his offerings to include locally caught clams, oysters and salmon fillets. Depending on how you like your seafood, you might want to hit up the Roche Harbor Market for a loaf of fresh bread or some crackers. Also of note, last summer Keith flew in a few live king crabs. Those babies alive are a site to behold.
Roche Harbor Market – 195 Reuben Memorial Dr, Friday Harbor
2:00 PM – Get out in the water
Take to the sea in a kayak made for two (or three). Explore the calm waters of the harbor and the expansive views of Haro Straight, the Olympic Mountains, Cascade Mountains, and beautiful shoreline. Keep an eye out for fins. Haro Straight is known as the “Orca Highway.” You just might encounter one of the San Juan Islands’ resident pods.
Sunset – Watch the Colors Ceremony
This is considered a must for the full Roche Harbor experience. Wander down to the docks in the early evening for the Colors Ceremony. From May 8 – Sept. 27, 10 minutes before sunset, each of Roche Harbor’s flags is lowered to their given anthem. In the grand finale, the American flag is lowered to the sound of a solo trumpet playing taps. Following the Colors Ceremony, announcements are made over the loud speaker as birthdays are shared, anniversaries recognized and special guests are welcomed.
7:30 PM – Dinner at McMillin’s Dining Room
Think island formal. Think two to three hours of indulging in savory and sweet bites. Think waterside views, exceptional service, and celebration. That’s what you’ll find at McMillin’s. They are best known for their prime rib. This is a 40-day-aged, dry rub, slow roasted, sliced to order affair. Enjoy a drink (or maybe two) and watch the last of the sun slip below the water as you dine in elegance.
Sunday
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Beechtree
Visit Beechtree and sip like you’re at home. Serving Starbucks coffee, this small coffee stand offers all the regular lattes, mochas, and espresso shots you want. A selection of light breakfast options are also available ranging from yogurt and granola to pastries and fruit. During the afternoon, this café transforms into an ice cream shop, dishing up cold treats perfect for warm days.
9:00 AM – Self-Guided Tour
Roche Harbor’s rich history is preserved throughout the town. On the self-guided walking tour, you’ll find historic sites such as the Hotel de Haro, built in 1886 as lodging for John McMillin’s customers.