THINGS TO DO IN FRIDAY HARBOR
Regarded as one of the best whale watching spots in the globe, there are tons of exciting things to do in in Friday Harbor! Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day on the water exploring killer whales and jellyfish, or want to wander around one of the island’s stunning parks, Friday Harbor is the place to go to enjoy an unforgettable shoreside getaway.
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WHALE WATCHING
One of the best places to spot wild orca whales, Friday Harbor is known for its exceptional whale watching tours! At Friday Harbor Suites, we’re partnered with San Juan Safaris, offering high-quality, engaging tours out of Friday Harbor on a regular basis. Enjoying a tour with San Juan Safaris is one of the best things to do in Friday Harbor, Washington.
Did you know? Over 95% of guests see whales on their tour, plus a ton of other fascinating local creatures like sea lions, seals, and eagles!
Visit their website to learn more about the many tours available with San Juan Safaris.
PARKS
Surrounded by natural beauty, Friday Harbor boasts a ton of parks that make for a perfect day of picnicking, fishing, birdwatching, or just simply sitting back and taking in the view. Stay near the San Juan Park area at our charming hotel!
Did you know? Lime Kiln Point State Park is also known as Whale Watch Park as it's one of the best places to see whales from land. Spot humpback
Make sure to stop by Lime Kiln Point State Park to take in beautiful views of the ocean and faraway mountains.
Visit the iconic lighthouse and seasonal interpretive center to learn more about our resident and transient whale pods.
Explore the 19th century lime kiln that the park's named after!
Kayaking
Choose a more intimate experience for your next whale-watching and wildlife-spotting trek. Friday Harbor's shimmering waters are perfect for kayaking, whether you're an beginner paddler on a tour or an advanced adventurer exploring alone. Follow the shoreline to see the island from the water!
Choose from a variety of tours, including a 5-hour route, a sunset tour, visiting specific island harbors, or a family-friendly tour.
Learn more about kayaking tours here on the island.
Moped Rentals
Speed around the island with ease by moped scooters! Fun, easy to ride, and voted as the Favorite Moped Rental spot since 1986.Susie's Mopeds offer the opportunity to explore all of San Juan Island for the day.
Choose from three models, including Scoot Coupes, Pedego Electric Bikes, and Kymco bikes.
The team is happy to offer different recommended routes so you can squeeze in all your sights!
Daily and hourly rates available.
HISTORIC SITES
Step back into 1861 when you visit San Juan Island National Historic Park! As the setting of a one-time conflict between British and American forces, visitors will find recreations of the camps that belonged to each nation as they battled for control of the island.
In addition to the historic elements of the park, the park also features a ton of incredible wildlife to view, along with exciting activities like boating and kayaking.
Did you know? In the summer, the English Camp hosts a re-enactment that is fun for the whole family!
The English Camp is a 16-minute drive from us.
The National Historic Waterfront is a 14-minute drive from us.
FARMS
After taking part in some water-based activities during your stay, one of the best things to do in Friday Harbor is to pay a visit to Pelindaba Lavender Farm! Stroll through these sprawling fields, pick some of your own, and discover over 200 lavender products to enjoy in the adjacent gift shop.
Make sure to stop by Krystal Acres Alpaca Farm and Country Store to visit the cute animals and pick up some gifts from the on-site store.
Friday Harbor Suites is just a 10-minute drive from the farm.
"Peak of purpleness" is July - August but there are many activities and products available for browsing from May to October.
Admission is free!
GETTING AROUND
Car Rental:Rent a car from one of the many businesses offering the service as soon as you get into Friday Harbor. For around $65, you can enjoy a 24-hour rental.
Mopeds: One of the most exciting ways to explore the island, our local moped company has one and two seaters available for rent.
San Juan Transit: Our transit service provides transportation to major points of interest like the English Camp, Alpaca Farm, and San Juan Vineyards. For more information on reserving a spot, visit their website.
Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley:Our city’s jolly trolley provides an exceptional tour of the island, taking guests along the Scenic Byway and making stops at some of San Juan Island’s top attractions. Learn more about their schedules by visiting their website.
There are tons of great things to do in Friday Harbor, Washington! Book your stay at our charming, centrally-located hotel to experience the best of the island with ease.
