Plan Your Stay | Bird Rock Hotel FAQ

Everything you need to know before your Friday Harbor stay.

Bird Rock Hotel is a historic boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about check-in, parking, accessibility, and policies. If you need anything else, we’re happy to help.

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Getting to Friday Harbor

How do most guests get here?
Most visitors arrive via Washington State Ferries (Anacortes to Friday Harbor) or by plane. Wheel planes are the most common, though some guests arrive by seaplane.

Should I make ferry reservations?
Yes. Ferry space can sell out, especially spring through fall and on holiday weekends. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

What if my ferry or flight is delayed?
Island travel can be unpredictable. Please contact us if you expect to arrive late. While we are not responsible for travel disruptions, we will always try to assist where possible.

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Location & Atmosphere

Where is Bird Rock Hotel located?
Bird Rock Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Friday Harbor. Restaurants, shops, galleries, and the waterfront are just steps away.

Is it quiet at night?
Bird Rock is a historic hotel in an active downtown location. Friday Harbor may be a small town, but it is a busy working harbor and summer destination. Guests may hear normal town activity, including early morning deliveries and grocery store traffic next door, as well as weekend pedestrian and street activity during peak season.

Many guests love the convenience and energy of being in the center of town. If you are highly sensitive to noise or prefer a more secluded setting, Earthbox Inn & Spa may be a better fit.

Earplugs are provided in all rooms.

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Accessibility & Building Layout

Do you have an elevator?
No. Bird Rock Hotel is a historic walk-up building and does not have an elevator. Guests should be comfortable using stairs.

Are rooms ADA accessible?
Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility is limited. If mobility is a concern, please contact us before booking so we can recommend the best option, or suggest Earthbox Inn & Spa.

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Check-In & Arrival

How does check-in work at Bird Rock Hotel?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Bird Rock Hotel uses self check-in, and detailed arrival instructions are sent prior to your stay.

Bird Rock does not have a traditional 24-hour front desk. Guest support is handled by our Earthbox Inn & Spa front desk team. Staff are on-site at Bird Rock throughout the day for housekeeping and maintenance, and an on-site night manager is present overnight.

Many guests appreciate Bird Rock’s boutique, independent style, similar to a thoughtfully managed inn. If you prefer a full-service front desk environment, Earthbox Inn & Spa may be a better fit.

What time is check-out?
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.

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Parking

Do you have on-site parking?
Bird Rock does not have a private parking lot. Downtown Friday Harbor offers street parking and nearby public parking areas. Availability varies by season and time of day.

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Rooms & Amenities

Do rooms have air conditioning?
Not all rooms at Bird Rock Hotel have air conditioning. Due to the historic nature of the building, some rooms rely on fans and natural airflow. Air conditioning is noted in each individual room description, so we recommend reviewing amenities carefully before booking.

Do rooms have refrigerators or microwaves?
Select rooms include mini refrigerators, this is noted in each individual room description.

Do you offer breakfast?
Bird Rock does not offer breakfast service, but you are steps away from many of Friday Harbor’s best cafés and restaurants.

Do you allow pets?
Bird Rock Hotel does not allow pets. Designated service animals are always welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines.

If you’re traveling with a dog, please consider Earthbox Inn & Spa, where we offer designated dog-friendly rooms.

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Group Stays

Are group bookings allowed?
Bird Rock Hotel is a small, historic boutique property and is best suited for individual travelers and couples. Larger group bookings can disrupt the guest experience, so reservations of four or more rooms are subject to approval and may be declined.

If you are planning a wedding room block, retreat, or larger group stay, we recommend Earthbox Inn & Spa, which is better equipped to accommodate group arrangements.

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Cancellation Policy & Deposits

What is your cancellation policy?

A 10% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is charged the day before arrival.

You may cancel without additional charges beyond the deposit if you provide notice at least 3 days before your scheduled arrival.

If you cancel within 3 days of arrival, the full reservation amount will be charged.

Please note:
    •    We are not responsible for travel complications.
    •    Many weekends and certain rooms require minimum-night stays.
    •    Reservations of four or more rooms are subject to group policies.

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Booking Direct vs. Online Booking Sites

Why book directly with Bird Rock Hotel?
Booking directly through our website or by calling us ensures the most accurate information and allows us to assist you more easily if plans change.

What happens if I book through Expedia, Booking.com, or similar booking sites?
Reservations made through sites like Expedia, Booking.com, Hotels.com, or other online travel agencies are subject to their policies and commission structures. Once a reservation is made through those platforms, our ability to modify or override terms is limited.

Can I change an online booking site reservation with the hotel directly?
Changes to reservations made through online booking sites typically must be handled through the original booking platform.