Top Rainy-Day Activities in the San Juan Islands
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.
12 Things to do on San Juan Island When it Rains
1. Whale Museum
This family-friendly educational museum was founded in 1967 to study the region’s beloved Southern Resident Whales. It’s located in downtown Friday Harbor and offers a variety of interactive exhibits about not only orcas, but all ocean life.
2. Jolly Trolley
Operated seasonally, the Jolly Trolley offers guided tours of San Juan Island. It takes participants along some of the most stunning stretches of Washington State’s Scenic Byway, and offers stops at several key locations.
3. San Juan Island Brewing
From their fabulous pours to their family-friendly atmosphere, San Juan Island Brewing has been a community hub since day one. Witness the brewing process, sample the locally brewed pints, nosh on some top-notch pizza, and more!
4. Palace Theater
This quaint hometown theater offers a fun place to catch recently released films and beloved classics.
5. The Studio on San Juan Island
This bright an airy San Juan Island exercise studio offers pilates, yoga, GYROTONIC, barre, TRX, and more. The classes are available on drop-in basis, giving you the freedom to attend last-minute (which can be nice if the weather is less than desirable).
6. San Juan Island Museum of Art
The San Juan Island Museum of Art is a stunning addition to Friday Harbor. Its three galleries featuring rotating collections specially selected to inspire the mind and enliven the soul.
7. San Juan Island Distillery
Making the best apple brandy in the US, the San Juan Island Distillery is located on the northern side of San Juan Island near Roche Harbor. In addition to sampling their latest varieties, you’ll also be able to tour the distillery.
8. Bowling at Paradise Lanes
There’s nothing like throwing an ace on a rainy day.
9. San Juan Community Theatre
The San Juan Community Theater hosts a wide range of engaging performances ranging from plays and musicals to instrumental concerts and community showcases.
10. San Juan County Historical Museum
Located in Friday Harbor, the San Juan County Historical Museum is comprised of eight historic buildings. Housed on the once expansive James King farmstead, it includes the original farmhouse, carriage house, stone root cellar, milk house, as well as the first jail in San Juan County.
11. Lavendera Massage
Spend a rainy day letting your body be pampered at the Lavendera Massage. Services include relaxation massages and couple’s massages to hot stone massages and balancing treatments.
12. San Juan Vineyards
San Juan Vineyards tasting room allows you to sample the locally grown varieties and often meet the wine makers themselves. Hours change seasonally. Please consult the website for current openings.
9 Things to do on Orcas Island When it Rains
1. Island Hoppin’ Brewery
This Orcas Island staple has been attracting locals and visitors since day one, thanks to its impressively flavorful beers. Visit the tap -room where you can sample their regular selection and seasonal pours. Sometimes you might even be treated to something “just now” available.
2. Orcas Island Artworks
Looking for a locally-made memento? Orcas Island Artworks is a must-visit. The gallery’s collection features more than 40 different artists with pieces ranging from paintings and carved wood bowls to intricate jewelry and organically made soap.
3. Pizza by the Slice at Ladybug Pizza
Orcas Island’s slice shop is undoubtedly the most affordable place to grab a bite on island. But don’t let the price point fool you. The New York style pies are served in generously large options and feature a delectable, toothsome crust.
4. Orcas Island Historical Museum
Located at the heart of Eastsound, Orcas Island’s hub, the Orcas Island Historical Museum features historical artifacts and stories from Orcas Island.
5. Orcas Island Winery
This boutique family vineyard and winery is located just below Turtleback Mountain. The tasting room hours change seasonally. Please visit their website for current availability.
6. Darvill’s Bookstore
An independent bookstore, Darvill’s has an impressive curated collection of works by local authors, along with classics and soon-to-be-discovered. The cookbook section is particularly intriguing, filled with inspiring titles and fun cookware. When you find a can’t-miss title, don’t overlook the coffee bar tucked at the back of the bookshop. The windows overlook Fishing Bay. The coffee is exceptional and if the weather clears you’ll be treated to stunning views.
7. Doe Bay Wine Co.
Opened by Orcas Island native Cole Sisson and his wife Stephanie, Doe Bay Wine Co. features a carefully curated selection of wines and beers. But the real star of the shop is their tastings. They feature pours selected by the exceptionally well-educated, yet down-to-earth, couple.
8. A Massage by the Sea
Let your body and your mind relax at A Massage by the Sea. Each service has been carefully developed to promote healthy living through relaxation.
