30 Wonderful Things to Do in September on San Juan Island

1. Fall Foliage Hikes

Treat yourself to stunning island hikes as the foliage turns. Find our Favorite Hikes on San Juan Island here.

2. First Friday Art Walk

Meander through charming Friday Harbor and check out the nine galleries in walking distance of Bird Rock Hotel

5. Complimentary Beach Cruiser Bikes

Take one of our complimentary beach cruisers for a spin around Friday Harbor. They're sturdy, one-speed bikes, perfect for exploring downtown, riding to the marina, or heading to nearby Jackson Beach. It's one of our favorite ways to experience island life at a slower pace.

6. Sumptuous Oyster Lunch

Head out to the gorgeous Westcott Bay Seafood Farm and treat yourself to freshly shucked oysters, oysters Rockefeller, oyster po' boys, plus other island-made fare and libations while overlooking the farm and water.

9. Guided Kayak Tour

Explore the serene Salish Sea on one of the last kayaking tours of the season with our friends at San Juan Outfitters in Roche Harbor. Learn about kelp forests and watch for orcas under the watchful eyes of curious harbor seals.

10. Saturday Farmers Market

Every Saturday through September, Friday Harbor's Farmers Market comes alive with island produce, fresh flowers, artisan foods, handcrafted goods, live music, and delicious local treats.

13. Sunset Picnic at the Whale Watching Park

In September the sun sets exactly around dinner time at the renowned Lime Kiln State Park. Get your favorite take-out and head to a waterfront picnic table at one of the best places in the world to watch for whales from shore.

14. Romantic Dinner at the Isle’s Original Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Treat yourself to dinner at Duck Soup out in the woods. Indulge in seasonal island-grown fare, handcrafted cocktails and out-of-this-world desserts by the fireplace.

17. Day at the Museums

Visit the stunning Friday Harbor Whale Museum. Meander through the outdoor San Juan Historical Museum, and don’t miss the newest powerful PNW exhibition at the Museum of Art, all within walking distance of Bird Rock Hotel.

18. Self-guided Island Tour on a Scoot Coupe from Susie’s Mopeds 

Experience the isle from one of the colorful scoot coupes at your own pace. Take plenty of dessert breaks and stop to smell the fresh flowers on the roadside stands.

19. Round of Golf

San Juan Golf & Tennis Club, home of the Celebrity Golf Classic, situated on stunning Griffin Bay with views of magnificent Mt. Baker, features a beautifully manicured 9-hole golf course with alternating tee boxes that convert into a long and challenging 18-hole experience. They rent clubs and carts. 

20. Explore two National Historical Parks

Vast American Camp and wooded English Camp pay tribute to the last war fought on American soil. Check out the interpretive center, old barracks and gardens and the wildlife on one of the many, awe-inspiring hikes along the coast.

23. Go See a Play

Have an elegant evening at the San Juan Community Theatre just a few blocks from our hotel. See the newest play, enjoy wine and chocolate during intermission, and take in the newest art exhibition in the fancy foyer.

24. Narrowest Coffee Shop in Washington State

Crow’s Nest Coffee Shoppe is not only the narrowest, but also the best coffee shop in town. Grab a quick bite and an expertly made coffee drink on your way to the beach.

27. Shopping Spree Friday Harbor

Our small coastal town is filled with locally owned boutiques, bookstores, galleries, bistros, and restaurants. Stop by Little Salt Shop for island-made, solar-powered sea salt, honey, salted caramels, and other uniquely San Juan souvenirs.

28. Roche Harbor Mausoleum

Park at the Roche Harbor airport and follow the signs to the mausoleum deep into the woods. The McMillen’s, who owned Roche Harbor and its limekilns, built this impressive mausoleum as a family resting place. Surrounded by gigantic Greek pillars, the mausoleum is laden with freemason symbolism.