Washington has so many beautiful tourist-friendly towns that Washingtonians never have to leave the state to feel like they’ve had a great vacation. But some of them are definitely harder to leave than others.
Friday Harbor is definitely on the list of irresistible Washington places. If it wasn’t for day jobs and other commitments on the mainland, most of those who visit would never leave.
Friday Harbor is a tourist-friendly town on the shores of San Juan Island, the largest of the cluster of islands known as the San Juans.
Ellen Macdonald / Flickr
To reach Friday Harbor, you’ll need to take a ferry, typically from Anacortes or one of the other islands.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr The ferry ride itself is extraordinarily beautiful.
Once you’ve arrived, take some time to explore the historic downtown area.
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr Step inside the local shops, art galleries, cafes and ice cream shops. The town is brimming with charm.
Life seems to move at a slower pace here, and that’s exactly how the locals like it.
Chris / Flickr Island time is always in full effect.
If you drive past the port and the downtown area, you’ll find a peaceful rural community with farms and ranches.
objectivejay / Flickr Pelindaba Lavender Farm and Westcott Bay Oyster Farm are top producers. Needless to say, the Farmers Market in town is amazing.
San Juan Vineyards is a great place to taste wine, especially since the tasting room is an old schoolhouse from 1895.
San Juan Vineyards Facebook
Lime Kiln Point State Park alone will make you fall in love with Friday Harbor.
Mick Thompson / Flickr Known as the “Whale Watch Park,” the views here are absolutely breathtaking.
And don’t even get us started on the sunsets.
Visit San Juans Facebook They’re magical.
Friday Harbor is definitely one of the most scenic spots in the San Juans. Here are a few of the beautiful hidden gems on the islands.
Ellen Macdonald / Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
The ferry ride itself is extraordinarily beautiful.
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
Step inside the local shops, art galleries, cafes and ice cream shops. The town is brimming with charm.
Chris / Flickr
Island time is always in full effect.
objectivejay / Flickr
Pelindaba Lavender Farm and Westcott Bay Oyster Farm are top producers. Needless to say, the Farmers Market in town is amazing.
San Juan Vineyards Facebook
Mick Thompson / Flickr
Known as the “Whale Watch Park,” the views here are absolutely breathtaking.
Visit San Juans Facebook
They’re magical.
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