San Juan Islands,  Washington

Top 10 Things to do on San Juan Island

The San Juan islands are (in my opinion) the most beautiful place in Washington State. If you live in the area or are planning to visit, they should be on the top of your list. We visited the main island, San Juan Island, and here are the top ten things you have to do on your visit.

#1 American Camp
I listed American Camp first because it was my absolute favorite view on the island. It provides the most breathtaking views of the island, strait of Juan de Fuca, and Victoria off in the distance. American Camp is one of the two old forts on the island and this view is on the top of Grandma’s Cove right down from the camp. Read my full post on American Camp HERE.

#2 Lime Kiln Point State Park
This State Park has the prettiest lighthouse on the island. It is also the best place to watch for whales from the views of the island. Fun for kids, if you go at low tide you can find all kinds of ocean life in the rocks down by the water. Read my full post on Lime Kiln with details HERE.

#3 Friday Harbor
Friday Harbor is the biggest (but is little) town on the island. You’ll most likely be landing here if you travel via ferry. It is full of shops, restaurants, and Bed & Breakfasts. There are also plenty of activities in the area. Check out my full post of Friday Harbor and what to do in the area HERE.

#4 Roche Harbor
Roche Harbor is the only other town on San Juan Island. Though it is quite a bit smaller than Friday Harbor, it offers some fun attractions and beautiful spots. Read about Roche Harbor in my post HERE.

#5 Take a Kayak Tour with San Juan Island Outfitters
This was our favorite activity on the island! We did the 3 Hour Family Kayak tour but San Juan Outfitters offers many different kinds of tours. We got to kayak around some of the smaller outlying islands and visit Posey Island State Park. Read about our tour and pricing info in my post HERE.

#6 Cattle Point State Park & Lighthouse
This spot is another gorgeous view of the island and has the only other lighthouse on the island. There are beaches, rocky shores, and lots of trails to check out. Read my full post on Cattle Point HERE.

#7 San Juan Vineyard
Just fifteen minutes outside of Friday Harbor you’ll find San Juan Vineyard. They have a tasting room, chapel, vineyard, and a large outdoor seating area where you can sit and enjoy a glass or two. View more info on their website HERE.

#8 Pelindaba Lavender Farm
If you love looking at lush purple lavender fields, or tasting cookies and drinks made with lavender, then head over to the only lavender farm on the island, Pelindaba. We strolled through the fields, snacked on some lavender goodies, and checked out the shop.
View info on the farm HERE.

#9 English Camp
The other old camp on the island is English Camp. It has old buildings, trails, and a beach to explore. Read my full post on English Camp HERE.

#10 San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
This park is on multiple acres and has over 200 sculptures to look at. Some are available for purchase and some are just for display. There are plenty of places to spread out and enjoy a picnic. Read more about it HERE.

For other things to see and do during your time on San Juan Island, read my other posts:
A Foodie’s Guide to San Juan Island
English Camp
Friday Harbor
Traveling on a Ferry
Roche Harbor
The Best Instagram Photo Spots on San Juan island
Family Kayak Tour
American Camp
Lime Kiln State Park
Cattle Point
Where to stay in Friday Harbor

Finding the fun everywhere life takes us!
Love, Olivia Michelle