San Juan Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

San Juan Island, located in the San Juan County of Washington, is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history. This stunning island beckons travelers with its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the main attractions on San Juan Island is the breathtaking Lime Kiln Point State Park. Known as the "Whale Watch Park," it offers visitors a chance to witness the awe-inspiring sight of orcas swimming in their natural habitat. The park also boasts stunning coastal trails, picnic areas, and a historic lighthouse that adds to its charm.

For those seeking a taste of history, a visit to the English Camp is a must. This historic site was once a British military camp during the Pig War dispute in the mid-19th century. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings, learn about the island's fascinating past, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area.

San Juan Island is also home to the charming town of Friday Harbor. This vibrant community offers a range of dining options, quaint shops, and art galleries. Strolling through the town's streets, visitors can soak in the laid-back island atmosphere and enjoy the friendly hospitality of the locals.

Nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the island's natural wonders. Moran State Park, located on nearby Orcas Island, offers miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and lead to stunning viewpoints such as Mount Constitution. The park also features beautiful lakes, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.

San Juan Island is also renowned for its culinary scene, with a variety of farm-to-table restaurants offering fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative cuisine. Whether you're craving a gourmet meal or a casual seaside bite, the island's dining options are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical landmarks, San Juan Island hosts a vibrant arts community. Visitors can explore local galleries, attend art festivals, and even participate in workshops to unleash their inner creativity.

Alternative names: Area: 55.05 mi²Maximum elevation: 1080 ftArchipelago: San Juan IslandsCoordinates: 48°32'16"N, 123°4'59"W

Location

WashingtonUnited States

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San Juan Island Top Attractions

San Juan Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

San Juan Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Lime Kiln Light, San Juan Safaris Whale Watching, San Juan Island National Historical Park, Lime Kiln Point State Park. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Lime Kiln Light
The Lime Kiln Light is a functioning navigational aid located on Lime Kiln Point overlooking Dead Man's Bay on the western side of San Juan Island, San Juan County, Washington, in the United States.
48°32'7"N • 123°0'54"W
San Juan Safaris Whale Watching
Boat tours • Nature and wildlife tours • Dolphin and whale watching
Park
San Juan Island National Historical Park
San Juan Island National Historical Park, also known as American and English Camps, San Juan Island, is a U.S. National Historical Park owned and operated by the National Park Service on San Juan Island in the state of Washington.

Day trips

San Juan Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of San Juan Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Peace Arch State Park (Blaine), Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum (Port Townsend), Pickett House (Bellingham).

35 milesNE
Monument and lawns on U.S./Canada border
Peace Arch State Park, Blaine
Nestled on the border between the United States and Canada lies Peace Arch State Park, a historical landmark that embodies the enduring friendship between these two nations. Located in the charming city of Blaine, Washington, this park is home to the iconic Peace Arch...
31 milesSE
Museum, Military museum
Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum, Port Townsend
Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum is a military museum located at Fort Worden State Park on Puget Sound, in the State of Washington. The museum occupies part of Building 201, a former barracks at Fort Worden.
31 milesNE
Museum
Pickett House, Bellingham
The Pickett House is the oldest house in the city of Bellingham, Washington, located on 910 Bancroft Street. Built in 1856 by United States Army Captain George Pickett, who later became a prominent general in the Confederate States Army during the Civil War, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
31 milesSE
Park
Fort Worden, Port Townsend
Fort Worden Historical State Park is located in Port Townsend, Washington, on 433 acres originally known as Fort Worden, a United States Army Coast Artillery Corps base constructed to protect Puget Sound from invasion by sea.
32 milesSE
Lighthouse, Vernacular architecture
Admiralty Head Light, Coupeville
The Admiralty Head Light is a deactivated aid to navigation located on Whidbey Island near Coupeville, Island County, Washington, on the grounds of Fort Casey State Park. The restored lighthouse overlooks Admiralty Inlet.

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Best Time To Visit San Juan Island

Learn when is the best time to travel to San Juan Island weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in July. Most of it rains in November.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in San Juan Island?

The top attractions to visit in San Juan Island are:

What is the best time to visit San Juan Island?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May. The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January.