San Juan Island & Friday Harbor

Gateway to the San Juan Islands

If you want to escape to a slower pace, you’ll be enchanted by Friday Harbor—a charming, historic, walkable seaport just steps from the ferry landing, with small, friendly shops and restaurants, and a refreshing absence of fast-food chains.

In this visitor-, family-, and dog-friendly town, you’ll find many of the San Juans’ whale and kayaking tour headquarters, The Whale Museum, the San Juan Islands Museum of Art,  the San Juan Community Theatre for plays and musical events, the San Juan Historical Museum, and so much more.

There's no need for a car to see Friday Harbor. Everything is within walking distance of the ferry landing, and it is easy to get around, including shuttle buses and a trolley to take you around the island, as well as bike, three-wheeled Scootcoupe, and moped rentals. From Friday Harbor you can also catch an inter-island ferry to Lopez, Orcas, and Shaw Islands. If you do bring your car, use this parking map to find available spaces. 

See our Frequently Asked Questions about Friday Harbor.