A weekend getaway to San Juan Island, with its breathtaking nature, astonishing wildlife and rich culture, always feels like a world away. Even more so in the off season.
We had a tumultuous Summer, my husband and I--involving teenaged kids, aging grandparents, a health scare, several moves. Events which challenged the way we think of ourselves, our way to handle crisis, to evaluate what’s worth doing in life and how to appreciate what we have.
We here at the Bird Rock Hotel love people in love. We love putting little notes in our guest’s rooms when there is an anniversary to celebrate. We love getting fresh roses, champagne and salted caramels for sweet Honey- and Babymooners. We get really excited when somebody plans to propose while staying with us; even more so if we get to suggest some of our favorite places to pop the question.
Summer is almost over! Did you make yours count? There is something special about visiting San Juan Island in late Summer, going on the last whale watch tour of the season, shucking your own oysters on the beach before the Seafood Farm closes for the Winter, experiencing the abundance of late Summer at the Farmer’s Market and going for that once a year swim in the mighty Pacific Ocean.
As awesome as Christmas can be, it can also be a challenging holiday for many of us with the stress of holiday shopping and visiting family. Last year, I decided to make a change and do something different. I vowed instead to spend Christmas morning at a beach on San Juan Island with the man I love.
Getting married on San Juan Island is one of those things which keeps on giving.
A lifetime of memories, an easy, absolutely gorgeous place to come back to each year for your anniversary and an abundance of things to do to make new memories and add adventures to your life together.
I consider San Juan Island my home away from home. When I board the ferry to Friday Harbor, all my worries melt away. As soon as the boat rounds the corner into the port of town, time slows down and I realize I have a huge smile on my face.
Visiting beautiful San Juan Island with its stunning wildlife, breathtaking nature, rich history and culture is the most relaxing, awe-inspiring and rejuvenating experience. Planning such a getaway can be a little intimidating, especially when you haven’t been to the island before and ferry travel is involved. But don’t worry, we’ll give you the insiders scoop. Here are the most common mistakes when planning a trip to San Juan and how to avoid them.
Visiting San Juan Island doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. It is true, things are a bit more expensive here than on the mainland. Just think that everything, from pillow to nail, from gas to coffee has to be shipped or flown over. Wages, taxes and utilities, especially drinking water, are much higher. But don’t let that keep you from experiencing beautiful San Juan Island with its pristine nature, astonishing wildlife and amazing culture. There are tons of fun, unique things to do here which only require your presence and sense of wonder and don’t cost a thing. Come explore!
Pristine San Juan Island, nestled in the crystal-clear waters in the north of Washington State, is known for its breathtaking nature, diverse wildlife and rich history. It is also home to incredibly talented and creative people, inspired by their serene surroundings, rivaling the cultural offerings of big cities. We are honored with more working artists per capita than anywhere else in Washington State.
