things to do in friday harbor

Friday Harbor is a charming town on San Juan Island in Washington state, known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreational activities. Here are some things to do in Friday Harbor:

1. Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Kayaking: Explore the waters around San Juan Island by kayak and get up close to sea life, including seals, sea lions, and whales.
3. San Juan Islands Museum of Art: Visit this museum to learn about the island’s art, history, and culture.
4. Friday Harbor Laboratories: Take a guided tour of this marine research facility, which offers insights into the island’s marine ecosystem.
5. Cattle Point Lighthouse: Visit this historic lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and islands.
6. American Camp National Historical Park: Learn about the island’s rich history and the Pig War of 1859 at this national park.
7. English Camp National Historical Park: Explore the island’s British and American military history at this park.
8. Hiking and Biking: San Juan Island has numerous trails, including the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, which offer opportunities for hiking and biking.
9. Beachcombing: Spend time exploring the island’s beautiful beaches, such as South Beach and Cattle Point Beach.
10. Friday Harbor Farmers Market: Visit the market on Saturdays during the summer to sample local produce, crafts, and food.
11. San Juan Brews: Take a brewery tour or sample local beers at this craft brewery.
12. Friday Harbor Winery: Visit this winery to taste local wines and learn about the island’s wine production.
13. Downtown Friday Harbor: Explore the town’s charming shops, galleries, and restaurants, which offer a range of local cuisine and crafts.
14. Outdoor Adventures: Go birdwatching, horseback riding, or take a scenic drive to explore the island’s natural beauty.
15. Events and Festivals: Attend one of the many events and festivals held in Friday Harbor throughout the year, including the San Juan Island Lavender Festival and the Friday Harbor Film Festival.
16. Visit a Farm: The San Juan Islands are known for their organic farms and artisanal food producers. Visit a farm to learn about sustainable farming practices and sample local products.
17. Fishing: Go fishing for salmon, halibut, or other species in the waters around San Juan Island.
18. Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and waters, including the Gulf Islands and Shaw Island.
19. Visit the Whale Museum: Learn about the island’s whales and marine life at this museum, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
20. Stargazing: Due to the island’s minimal light pollution, Friday Harbor offers incredible stargazing opportunities on clear nights.

Remember to plan your trip according to the season and weather, as some activities may be seasonal or weather-dependent.