San Juan Island Visitor Information

Orca Whales seasonally feed just off the SW shore of San Juan Island, so head to Lime Kiln Park for a chance of observing these magnificent creatures from the water’s edge. (BTW they aren’t whales, they’re big dolphins.) To best appreciate the natural environment and its creatures, take a whale watching/nature cruise or kayak adventure; numerous operators depart from Friday Harbor or Roche Harbor. There are miles of hiking trails to enjoy. Don’t miss the views from upper American Camp and English Camp! Take a zip line through the forest, catch an art or yoga class, play golf, see a local theater production, ride a bike, join the boat crowd at Roche Harbor to dine, dance, shop, and wander in the sculpture park – whether you want to mingle or simply retreat to a quiet cove with a book, there’s an opportunity to do it all on San Juan Island! If you are visiting the Islands in our Summer High Season we strongly recommend you make restaurant reservations well in advance of your stay. The Islands have a limited number of eating options and wait times can be long.

San Juan Island, the county seat and commercial hub of the Islands, is home to 8,000 year-round residents. Drawn here by a desire to live near to nature and far from chaos and congestion, Islanders have a creative, artistic, and independent nature. They are deeply committed to their unique community and avidly participate in its social and charitable organizations. Some tourists come, fall in love with the lifestyle, and never leave!