• Navigate with Confidence
    • • Plan your route and itinerary
    • • Use tides and currents to your advantage
    • • Explore Marine Parks
    • • Discover boat-in spots from Sucia’s anchorages to the trails of Stuart and Jones Island
    • • Experience the Islands
    • • Visit bustling Friday and Roche Harbors
    • • Find serene, secret coves • Your adventure begins now!
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Jul 1, 2025

Cruising Guide to the San Juan Islands: Top Anchorages, Marinas, Public Docks, and Activities

What are the best anchorages, marinas, and places to visit when cruising the San Juan Islands

This cruising guide to the San Juan Islands highlights popular anchorages, marinas, and public docks for visiting boaters. Stops include Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor, Deer Harbor, and smaller public docks throughout the islands. The guide also points to hiking trails, shore activities, and planning resources to help boaters choose destinations for a relaxed San Juan Islands cruise. 

Planning a boating trip to the San Juan Islands?

Whether you're sailing a trailerable sloop, motoring a pocket trawler, paddling a kayak, or even pedaling a bicycle, this is a good time and place to start planning your next island outing.

Popular Harbors, moorages, and Stops in the San Juan Islands

Cruising the San Juan Islands usually includes a mix of lively harbors and quiet anchorages. Friday Harbor offers fuel, groceries, and restaurants, while Roche Harbor combines a marina with a historic resort setting. Smaller stops such as Deer Harbor and public docks around the islands provide quieter access to hiking trails, kayaking areas, and scenic coves. 

Mcmillan Mausoleum at Roche Harbor
Missing Column Mausoleum at Roche Harbor

Best Anchorages in the San Juan Islands