7 March Must-dos on San Juan Island

A March getaway to San Juan Island feels a bit like you've just gotten away with something. All the restaurants and shops are opening up, like the lovely Oyster Tale on the waterfront. The isle is abloom with spring flowers and budding trees. And your cuteness sensors will be on full overload observing all the baby animals on land and sea.

March promises every weather you can possibly image, sometimes all in one day, so bring your layers and sunglasses. Come on up as the island is is renewing and rejuvenating and it's a great opportunity to do the same for yourself.

1) Return of the Humpbacks

In the spring, the mighty Humpbacks are returning from Hawaii with their newborn calves in tow. Search for them while meandering the American Camp National Historical Park prairie or around Cattle Point. Did you know Humpbacks don't eat during their migration north and sure are hungry upon arrival in our crystal clear waters?

2) Spring Flower Hike

Check out the beautiful hikes around English Camp National Historical Park abloom with Daffodils and pear trees. Find the first wildflowers on your way up Young Hill and see all the other islands from the summit.

3) Oyster Lunch at the Net Shed

The Net Shed at the Westcott Bay Shellfish Farm is open for lunch Thursdays through Sundays in Spring. No reservations necessary. Treat yourself to a sumptuous oyster lunch with a nice glass of local wine or beer while sitting around the fire or share a long table, overlooking the gorgeous farm and beaches.

4) Raptor Watching at American Camp

Find the Island's Winter visitor, the white Short-eared Owl, hunting low, during the day, over the American Camp prairie before returning to Alaska for the Summer, while the resident Bald Eagles, Kestrels and Red-tailed Hawks are defending their usual and accustomed hunting grounds. Enjoy the show while remembering to keep a long-distance relationship. Hear the Red-winged Blackbirds and Hummingbirds calling while you inhale the sweet smell of Spring flowers and the clean, salty air.

5) Sculpture Park

Visit the stunning, 20-acre Sculpture Park on the north end of the island while over 8,000 daffodils and other spring flowers are emerging. Get inspired by art and nature and the many interactive displays, like the Starfish Project, a sandbox filled with art supplies for kids to create their own sculptures.

6) First Seating at COHO Restaurant

Dine at this fabulous farm-to-table restaurant a few blocks from our Bird Rock Hotel between 5:00pm and 5:30pm and enjoy 4 set courses for only $45 per person. Reservations recommended.

7) Saturday Farmers Market

Enjoy San Juan Island's Farmers Market in downtown Friday Harbor each first and third Saturday in March and find lovely lunch, art, live music, chair massages and an abundance of locally made food, fare and gifties.