5 Things to do on San Juan Island without a Car

Updated May 2017

There are many reasons to travel to San Juan Island without a car. Maybe you like to tread lightly and mind your carbon footprint. Maybe the Washington State Ferry has no vehicle reservations for your travel dates (you only need reservations when travelling with a car, you never get turned away walking on). Maybe you are flying in with Kenmore Air from Seattle. There are so many things to do here without a car, starting with your accommodations. The Bird Rock Hotel is a block and a half from where the ferry and the seaplanes land. You can do everything there is to do in Friday Harbor on foot and you’ll not miss out on any island or sea based adventures or outings.

Whale Watching

San Juan Safaris offer 3-4-hour whale watch tours from the docks of Friday Harbor from March through October. They always have two fun & knowledgeable naturalists on board, a heated cabin and bathroom, binoculars and blankies, and toys and life vests for the kiddos.

Kayaking

San Juan Outfitters offers a variety of day kayak trips from Roche Harbor. With prior arrangement, the company picks you up and drops you off right in front of our hotel. Book a family tour, tailored to your family’s needs, or a tour in search of Orcas, as a once in a lifetime experience.

Beach Cruiser Bike Tour

Our sturdy, single speed bikes are not meant to replace island transportation. Even though it has been done before by a few strong and determined souls. They are perfect though for a fun 3-5-mile trip. Take them to the nearest beach or to a wine tasting at the San Juan Vineyards, three miles out of town.

Zip Lining

Zip San Juan, open from April through October, lets you fly through the trees, over mossy rocks, giant ferns, and a pond. You’ll climb giant Douglas Firs to zip on eight lines, the highest being 50 feet, and cross one wildly swinging suspension bridge high up in the trees. They’ll pick you up on the end of First Street; the street our hotel is on.

Jolly Trolley Island Tour

Friday Harbor’s Jolly Trolley operates from June through September. This fun, narrated tour of the island along the Scenic Byway stops at all major island attractions, parks and farms and lets you hop on and off wherever you would like to spend your time.