Hi- wanting to travel to San Juan islands next week! I live outside of Seattle. I’m not as mobile as I’d like to be hoping for beautiful sunsets and views along with seeing orcas. I’m thinking of staying in Friday Harbor. Any advice is appreciated! Will have car.
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
2150 posts
If you're considering Friday Harbor, you might also consider parking the car in Anacortes and walking on the ferry, which docks in the heart of FH. There are buses and a shuttle (the Jolly Trolley) to Lime Kiln State Park, where you can often see orcas. FH is pretty hilly, so bear that in mind. If you want to take a car on the ferry, you will need a reservation, which can be difficult/impossible to get at short notice. If you are able to travel on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, you will have better luck. Additional reservations are released at 7am two days before sailing. You don't need a reservation to walk on. Accommodation could be difficult to secure on short notice, as well.
Posted by
Moncton NB
1557 posts
I have no advice to give, I'm just jumping on to relate my San Juan Islands story.
I used to be in the Royal Canadian Navy. Every December, we would take a small ship and a patrol boat from Esquimalt (near Victoria) and bring Santa, presents and our band to many of the small villages in the nearby (but American) San Juan Islands. The locals would invite us all in to their community halls for hot chocolate and snacks. We had a real looking Santa and all the kids would feel so amazed that Santa found their little island. We overnighted in Friday Harbor, but the stops I remember were to the tiny places: Stuart Island, Waldron Island, and Deer Harbor on Orcas Island.
A little Canadian-American friendship back in days when that was easier.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
1627 posts
Darren, I love your story. It is heartwarming - we all need right now.