San Juan Island Lodging Tips

Nestled in the Salish Sea, this gem promises not only breathtaking landscapes, but also an array of cozy lodgings that make your island retreat truly unforgettable. A picturesque haven in the Pacific Northwest—San Juan Island lodging ranges from marina views to mountain hideaways.

As an added bonus, Kenmore Air offers the fastest way to reach San Juan Island with direct wheeled plane flights from Boeing Field and Paine Field to Friday Harbor Airport and direct seaplane flights to Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor Marina. 

Top San Juan Island Hotels, B&Bs, Resorts & Rentals

With its breathtaking beaches, epic whale watching, and vibrant restaurant scene, San Juan Island is easily one of our favorite destinations. Here, serenity and hospitality abound at the impressive selection of San Juan Island hotels and resorts. 

Friday Harbor House

Sweeping views of the marina, in-room jacuzzis, and king beds make this modern San Juan Island Hotel a favorite. Located in the heart of Friday Harbor, it shares the same block as the island’s famed Whale Museum. 

What’s more, The Restaurant at Friday Harbor House is heralded by Chef Bryce Harding, whose pedigree includes the famous Willows Inn on Lummi Island. Dishes here rely heavily on local ingredients, like the Chioggia Beets made with beets from New Hannah Farm on San Juan Island. 

Saltwater Farm

Best known as one of the top wedding venues in the San Juan Islands, Saltwater Farm is also a boutique inn nestled among 162 acres of woodland. The sustainable venue offers a handful of guest houses and a sunrise suite. 

Thanks to the elegant and spacious Scandinavian designs, windows become picture frames, creating a sense that you are both in a cozy cabin and part of nature. Fair warning though, it’s best to book as early as possible. Reservations can be hard to come by. 

Lakedale

The charm of Lakedale Resort is truly captivating. This expansive 82-acre property offers diverse lodging options, from cozy camping sites and luxurious ‘glamping’ tents to log cabins and charming lake-front lodge rooms. Featuring three spring-fed lakes, boats, bikes for exploration, a convenient general store, and an extensive network of trails, the resort provides a serene escape.

Is that all? Nope! The resort has Aquacycle, bocce ball, and giant chess. And don’t skip the tie-dying station in the Activity Tent. It makes for the perfect memento!

Roche Harbor Resort

A coveted destination for boaters, Roche Harbor Resort’s land-based accommodations are arguably the plushest on island and undoubtedly the most historic. The 20-room Hotel de Haro was built in 1886 around the original Hudson Bay Post. Once a lime mining hub, remnants of the kilns remain today.

Luckily, the lodging has stepped up a notch. New buildings have risen from the hillside, offering luxury homes for rent, plush rooms at Quarryman Hall, and family-friendly McMillin Suites. The resort is also bustling with activities especially during the summer months when tours operators are in full swing and the local artists booths are open. 

Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites

Perched at the edge of Friday Harbor’s downtown core, Tucker House Inn and Harrison House Suites are one of the coziest San Juan Island bed and breakfast destinations. Housed in two historic homes (Tucker House was built in 1989 and Harrison House was built in 1905), these eco-friendly lodging options offer little touches of luxury.

Those who like the option to dine-in will appreciate the rooms that come equipped with kitchenette and/or BBQs. (This can be a major boon if you’re traveling off-season when fewer restaurants are in operation.) Love a good soak? Check out the Friday Harbor Suite. It offers a hot tub on the balcony! And be sure to wake up hungry. All guests are treated to a complimentary multi-course breakfast made with seasonal, fresh ingredients.

San Juan Island Hotels FAQ 

When should you book your San Juan Island Hotel?

Don’t wait to book your lodging in the San Juan Islands, especially if you plan to visit during the peak summer months. Rooms can be hard to come by. We recommend booking as early as possible.

Do I have to have a car when I stay in Friday Harbor?

Nope! There’s a plethora of car-free things to do in Friday Harbor. If you want to explore the island, we recommend renting an electric bike or a scoot coupe.

I’d really like to rent a car. What are my options?

There are a few different car rental options on San Juan Island:

• M & W Auto
• Orcas Cars (yes, they do serve San Juan Island)
• San Juan Island Car Rental

Are there good places to eat on San Juan Island?

If food is an important factor in your trip, you are in for a treat. Chefs in the San Juans are well-known for paying homage to the region’s rich bounty. Fresh, seasonal ingredients reign supreme. Farm-to-table dining is loaded with foraged goods and frequently showcases seafood. Discover 12 of our favorite places to eat on San Juan Island.

Are there any dog-friendly hotels on San Juan Island?

We’re big fans of fur babies. In fact, we’re a dog-friendly airline. Which is why we love that there are several dog-friendly hotels in the San Juan Islands. Among them is Tucker House Inn and Lakedale Resort. Just be sure to check the specific pet policy of your rental before booking. Requirements can vary. 

Are there kid-friendly places to stay on San Juan Island?

San Juan Island is an incredibly family-friendly destination filled with fun things to do and places to eat with kids. In particular, Lakedale and Roche Harbor Resort have a host of activities suited for families. 

Are there romantic places to stay on San Juan Island?

While San Juan Island is indeed family-friendly, it’s also one of the more romantic destinations. From honeymoons and babymoons to a just-because getaway with your partner, San Juan Island doesn’t disappoint. The intimate rooms and Tucker House are always a favorite, as are the view-filled suites at Friday Harbor House. 

Fun Things to Do in the San Juan Islands