Is visiting Friday Harbor worth it?
Yes and no. In my opinion, missing going to Friday Harbor on your first San Juan Islands trip is like missing seeing the winning score at a game. The flipside is that Friday Harbor is just another small touristy seaport. Another consideration is that you can visit Friday Harbor by car, but the marine parks are only accessible by boat. In my case, I enjoy Friday Harbor and other ports of call, but many times we have not stopped at Friday Harbor or any other port and just visited the outer island parks.
OK, let's get serious, the best vacations will offer great value and astounding memories. True!
So having an orca breach just a few feet from your dinghy fits the description - right again!
So does a romantic sunset dinner in a deserted anchorage, discovering a tiny octopus in a tidepool, or having a lost seal pup crying at your transom. But if history fascinates you and killer whales terrify you, perhaps a museum should be on your short list.
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| Friday Harbor Marina |
If you are visiting the San Juans by car, by boat, or on foot and only have one place to choose for your stop, make it the city of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island.
If at all possible you should allow a full day for exploring and then spend the night on board your boat at the marina or at a local tourist lodge, B&B or motel. For campers, head for the county campground at Smallpox Bay on the west side.
Ride your bicycle, drive your car, or purchase an all day transit pass for $15. Friday Harbor and San Juan Island is your number one choice.
While on San Juan Island, stop by the visitors center in Friday Harbor for maps and brochures. ( it's on Spring street across from Kings Market) Check out the Whale Museum,the San Juan Historical Museum, American Camp, English camp, Lime Kiln State Park (aka "Whale Watch Park")and a host of private enterprises and artsy craftsy studios, but don't miss Roche Harbor, and the Sculpture Garden at Westcott Bay Reserve. Local shops and eateries will satisfy your appetite for cuisine and collectables.
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