Things to do in Friday Harbor, WA (San Juan Island)
San Juan Island is an excellent representative of the entire cluster of islands lying between Washington and Victoria, B.C. On its welcoming shores visitors find Friday Harbor, an ideal place to stay while exploring the fascinating history, thriving culture and natural landscape of the San Juan Islands. Upon arrival guests are offered a wide array of accommodation to choose form, including several historical B&Bs in historic architecture.
The San Juan Islands only take in half the rainfall as Seattle and as a result are a popular year-round destination for those seeking water-centered recreation. Friday Harbor has abundant opportunities for kayaking, sailing, fishing, scuba diving and whale-watching. The town's waterfront park showcases the art of local Susan Point and offers views of the unique island setting. Friday Harbor's downtown feels far from city life with no stop lights and a plethora of shops, art galleries, restaurants serving local produce, and even an open air market.
The one hundred-year-old town is proud of its history and displays it in its buildings, carefully preserved and documented on the historic walking tour. Friday Harbor offers unique dining opportunities in many of these historic settings, including the Front Street and Garden Path Cafes and the McMillin Dining Room at Roche Harbor Resort. Visitors should not miss learning of an interesting island history at the Historical Museum. The surrounding wildlife of the Salish Sea can also be explored at the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor. Around 85 Orca whales live in the waters around the islands providing ample opportunities to spot them by boat or shoreline.
The unique history of the conflict over island ownership is reflected in its parks, the American Camp and the English Camp. Both parks provide expansive beaches, lagoons, bluffs, hiking trails, fire pits for potential picnics and interpretive centers. Take a pleasant stroll through the Sculpture Park at Wescott Bay Reserve. Many other parks, including Lime Kiln State Park with its historic lighthouse, can be discovered throughout the island, ideal for hiking, beach-combing, scenic views and whale-watching.
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FRIDAY HARBOR, WA
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