3 Most Unusual Farms to Tour on San Juan Island
What do freshly shucked oysters, Madrona-infused Brandy and lavender massage oil have in common? They are all sustainably grown and lovingly made on San Juan Island. Clean water, clean air and fertile soil make the isle not only the perfect place for wild things, like the Orca Whales and Bald Eagles, but also for small, family-owned farms to grow and manufacture healthy, fun, unique crops. The best part: you can tour these unusual farms for free and eat, drink and smell your way through their exquisite harvests.
7 Not-to-be-Missed, Late Summer Things to Do on San Juan Island!
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.
5 Unique Places for Mother’s Day Breakfast & Brunch in Friday Harbor
The next best thing to breakfast in bed on Mother’s Day, is breakfast, brunch or an early lunch on a beautiful island in the Pacific, before a day of whale watching, hiking, exploring the Pelindaba Lavender Farm or the San Juan Island Sculpture Park. Regardless of whether you are an early bird or wake at the crack of noon, Friday Harbor has the place to nourish and pamper you and yours on Mom’s Day.
10 Things to do for Free on San Juan Island
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!
10 Tips on how to relax and de-stress after the Holidays
All of us here at the Bird Rock Hotel wish you a very happy and healthy New Year! Another year, another holiday season and we are all still here and ready to start the new year off right with these tips on how to relax and de-stress after the holidays:
10 Tips to make sure you get exactly what you want when booking a room
Our Bird Rock Hotel, one of the oldest hotels on San Juan Island, has 15 contemporary and distinct rooms. Some have two-person jetted tubs, some have a fire place, some have a harbor view
How to Plan a San Juan Holiday Getaway
Late fall and winter are marvelous times to visit San Juan Island. The Olympic Rain Shadow graces the island with crystal clear, sunny days while other Washingtonians are donning fleece and rain gear. The peak season is over, the beaches and trails are empty, some restaurants and adventure providers close, but with a little insider knowledge and planning, you can treat yourself to an unforgettable island holiday for half the price of a summer vacation.
San Juan Island’s Westcott Bay Shellfis
The 35 year old Westcott Bay Shellfish Company in the north of San Juan Island, once served their tasty bivalves all over the country. Over the years, the farm declined and was eventually put up for sale as a home site.
My Favorite Savor the San Juans Events
October is a lovely month in the San Juans. Long sunny Fall days give way to crisp, starry nights. Our hard working island farmers harvest the abundant fruits of their labor, and in turn, our skilled island chefs create delicious feasts, living up to our fame as the “gourmet archipelago”. Island artists delight with new creative works, inspired by nature and paradise. Savor the San Juans is a month-long medley of food, art and culture, so rich that it’s hard to decide what to do. Here are several of my absolute favorite Savor events.