Friday Harbor WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Friday Harbor, Washington.
1. Amaro Farm
RUSTIC FARM EXPERIENCE
Amaro Farm is a rustic farm nestled in rolling hills that features interactive experiences with friendly sheep and photo moments with a vintage tractor. Visitors can shop for unique wool products made from the farm's own sheep. The farm is also developing a new distillery, adding another attraction to this charming agricultural destination.
2. Lime Kiln Point State Park
WHALE WATCHING PARADISE
Lime Kiln Point State Park offers tranquil coastal views with well-maintained walking trails and serene whale watching spots. The park features a historic lighthouse and provides one of the best land-based whale watching opportunities in the world. Educational signage throughout the park helps visitors learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.
3. The Whale Museum
MARINE LIFE EDUCATION
The Whale Museum offers an educational experience focused on the marine mammals of the Salish Sea, particularly the endangered Southern Resident orcas. Exhibits include whale skeletons, interactive displays, and information about conservation efforts. Visitors can learn about the unique ecosystem of the San Juan Islands and how to protect its marine inhabitants.
4. Westcott Bay Shellfish
FRESH SEAFOOD EXPERIENCE
Westcott Bay Shellfish provides visitors with an authentic shellfish farm experience where they can enjoy fresh oysters, clams, and mussels. The waterfront setting offers spectacular views while sampling some of the freshest seafood available on the island. Visitors can learn about sustainable aquaculture practices and the importance of shellfish to the local ecosystem.
5. San Juan Islands Museum of Art
LOCAL ART GALLERY
The San Juan Islands Museum of Art showcases contemporary art with a focus on artists from the Pacific Northwest and the Salish Sea region. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, featuring various artistic media and styles. Its modern building design provides an elegant backdrop for the diverse artistic expressions on display.
6. American Camp
HISTORIC PARK SITE
American Camp is part of the San Juan Island National Historical Park and preserves the site of the American military camp during the Pig War boundary dispute of 1859-1872. The site features beautiful beaches, prairie landscapes, and forest trails with opportunities to spot wildlife including foxes, eagles, and deer. Visitors can explore historical buildings and learn about this unique chapter in Pacific Northwest history.
7. English Camp
HISTORICAL MILITARY SITE
English Camp offers visitors a glimpse into the British military presence during the Pig War boundary dispute of 1859-1872. The well-preserved site includes a formal garden, historical buildings, and interpretive displays explaining this peaceful resolution to an international conflict. Located on Garrison Bay, the camp also provides beautiful water views and hiking trails through diverse landscapes.
8. Pelindaba Lavender Farm
FRAGRANT PURPLE FIELDS
Pelindaba Lavender Farm invites visitors to wander through fragrant fields of purple blooms during the summer season. The farm produces a wide range of lavender products, from culinary items to essential oils and body care products available in their on-site store. Visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices and the process of distilling lavender oil.
9. San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
OUTDOOR ART DISPLAY
San Juan Islands Sculpture Park displays over 150 sculptures across 20 acres of beautiful island landscape. The outdoor gallery combines art with nature, allowing visitors to enjoy both creative works and scenic views of Westcott Bay. Walking paths meander through the park, providing different perspectives on the diverse collection of contemporary sculptures.
10. Brickworks Plaza
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Brickworks Plaza serves as a center for cultural life in Friday Harbor, hosting the popular San Juan Island Farmers' Market on Saturdays. The restored historic building features a large hall and outdoor plaza used for concerts, community gatherings, and special events. Visitors can find fresh local ingredients, meet farmers, enjoy baked goods and prepared foods, and listen to live music during market days.
11. Cattle Point Lighthouse
SCENIC COASTAL BEACON
Cattle Point Lighthouse stands on the southern tip of San Juan Island, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding waters. The historic lighthouse, built in 1935, marks an important nautical passage between the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Haro Strait. Visitors can enjoy coastal hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and dramatic landscapes at this scenic point.
12. Spring Street Shopping District
CHARMING DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES
Spring Street forms the heart of Friday Harbor's shopping district, featuring a diverse collection of boutiques, galleries, and gift shops. Visitors can browse for unique jewelry, fine art, books, locally made clothing, and souvenirs within this walkable downtown area. The street extends from the waterfront up to Argyle Street, including several cross streets that offer additional shopping opportunities.
13. Friday Harbor Waterfront
SCENIC HARBOR VIEWS
Friday Harbor Waterfront provides visitors with charming views of the bustling marina and ferry terminal that serves as the gateway to San Juan Island. Waterfront restaurants offer fresh seafood and other local specialties with scenic dining views of the harbor activity. Visitors can watch boats coming and going while enjoying the relaxed island atmosphere of this picturesque seaport.
14. San Juan County Park
COASTAL CAMPING EXPERIENCE
San Juan County Park offers visitors a beautiful waterfront camping experience on the western shore of San Juan Island. The park provides excellent kayaking opportunities and views across Haro Strait toward Vancouver Island. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, beach exploration, and the chance to spot orcas passing by this scenic shoreline.
15. Roche Harbor
HISTORIC RESORT VILLAGE
Roche Harbor is a historic resort village on the north end of San Juan Island, centered around a picturesque marina and the landmark Hotel de Haro. The village features beautiful gardens, dining options, shopping, and a fascinating outdoor sculpture garden nearby. Visitors can explore the lime kiln ruins that speak to the area's industrial past while enjoying the elegance of this charming harbor community.