Getting ashore
Ships call at Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Passengers land at the harbour, and the town is a short walk away. Check your ship’s notice for whether you will tender.
Watch-outs
The islands are a ferry-served area, and the roads are slow and winding. Weather in the Salish Sea can be cool and damp. Whale-watching trips are weather-dependent.
Friday Harbor
The town is small and walkable, with shops, galleries and cafés along the waterfront. The Whale Museum covers the orca families that visit the islands.
Whale watching
Orcas visit the San Juan Islands in summer, and boat tours run from Friday Harbor. Tours follow strict distance rules around the whales, so expect a respectful distance.
Roche Harbor and the islands
Roche Harbor, on the north end of San Juan Island, has a historic lime works and the Hotel de Haro. Lopez Island and Orcas Island are reached by ferry.
Food & shopping
Pacific Northwest food, including seafood, cheese and local wine. The waterfront restaurants are the easiest choice.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the US dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Mobile signal is limited on some islands.
Accessibility & mobility
The waterfront and the town are mostly flat. Whale-watching boats involve gangways. Roads on the islands can be steep. Ask your operator for accessible vehicles.