How to Get Here

Getting to San Juan Island

The journey here is part of the magic.

Getting to San Juan Island is easy—and stunningly beautiful. Whether you choose a 1–1.5 hour ferry ride from Anacortes, Washington, or a scenic 40–45 minute flight from Seattle, the journey itself is unforgettable. Keep an eye out along the way: it’s not uncommon to spot orcas, humpback whales, bald eagles, or seals en route.

Bird Rock Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Friday Harbor, just two blocks from the ferry terminal and about one mile from the airport. You can’t miss us—we’re the big white, three-story historic building that looks like it time-traveled straight from the 19th century. Come on in and get comfy.

By Car Ferry

The Washington State Ferry runs multiple trips daily from Anacortes, Washington, about 90 minutes north of Seattle.

The ferry ride to Friday Harbor takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on stops
Vehicle reservations are strongly recommended if you plan to bring a car
Walk-on passengers do not need a reservation
Many guests choose to leave their car in Anacortes and walk on—it’s an easy, scenic crossing, and Bird Rock Hotel is just two blocks from the ferry dock

Check ferry schedules and make reservations →

By Air

Flying to Friday Harbor is fast, scenic, and easier than many guests expect. Most flights take just 40–45 minutes and depart from Sea-Tac, Boeing Field, Lake Union, or nearby regional airports.

Here are a few trusted air carriers we recommend:

Kenmore Air – Seaplanes and wheeled aircraft from Seattle and Victoria, with service to both the marina and airport
San Juan Airlines – Affordable flights from Anacortes, Bellingham, and Victoria, B.C.
Island Air – On-demand private charters based in Friday Harbor

Bonus: The views from above—emerald islands, deep blue water, and snow-capped peaks—are worth the flight all on their own.

Passenger Ferries and Shuttles

Traveling without a car? No problem. Several seasonal, passenger-only ferries provide direct service to Friday Harbor, and there’s also an easy shuttle option from Seattle to Anacortes.

Airporter Shuttle – Bus service from Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, with multiple daily departures
Puget Sound Express – Seasonal passenger ferry service from Edmonds and Port Townsend to Friday Harbor

Tip: Passenger ferries and shuttles are a relaxed, car-free way to travel. Sit back, enjoy the views, and let someone else handle the driving.

San Juan Island & Friday Harbor without a Car

Leaving your car in Anacortes and walking onto the ferry to Friday Harbor has so many advantages: You won’t need to make a reservation or show up an hour or two beforehand. Walking-on costs a fraction of driving-on. Once in Friday Harbor, you won’t have to deal with finding parking. Here's how to get around on San Juan Island without a car.

10 Most Frequently Asked Questions about San Juan Island

We San Juan Islanders love our island and we love to share this special place with our visitors. And we especially love you to be well informed and totally excited about coming here and knowing what to expect when you get here. We have compiled answers to our lovely guest’s most frequently asked questions

10 Family Fun Things to do on San Juan Island in the Summer

The best Summer Getaway is providing something fun to do for everybody in your family, with just the right mixture of outdoor adventure and relaxation, where you learn something new, get inspired and spend quality time together, making memories of a lifetime.