San Juan Island and Friday Harbor in August

August on San Juan Island is going on guided whale watching tours on zippy zodiacs and bioluminescent kayaking trips, hiking and biking along the isle’s rugged coastline and swimming at Granny’s Cove, one of two sandy beaches on the isle. August is Summer fests and fairs, fresh seafood, farm tours and family fun at its best. Here are your August’s do-not-miss:

Summer Family Art Days

Visit the acclaimed San Juan Island Museum of Art in Friday Harbor on Saturdays at 11:00am for fun family art workshops or spend lazy Sunday afternoons at the inspiring San Juan Sculpture Park and make gigantic, communal art together as a family. Preregistration required. Free.

San Juan Summer Arts Festival

Come to the Brickworks Plaza in the heart of Friday Harbor to browse island-made arts and crafts. Dance to live music, enjoy a refreshing craft beverage and a tasty bit to eat. Save room for scrumptious treats and bring the kiddos along! Every Friday from 4:00pm to 10:00pm.

San Juan County Fair

Treat your family to a good old fashioned county fair, complete with 4-H animals, carnival rides, food and drink and ridiculously good entertainment. August 15-18, at the Friday Harbor Fairgrounds.

Shakespeare Under the Stars

This summer’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is Shakespeare’s most popular play and its mixture of love, magic and laughter reminds us all of the power of dreams. August 7 - August 11, at the Island Stage Left outdoor stage on Wold Road. Admission is FREE! Donations appreciated. Bring a blanket & dress warmly! No latecomers, please.

Free Live Music

Hop on over to the outdoor San Juan Island Historical Museum every Wednesday evening for free, live music, dancing and refreshments. Visit the beautiful San Juan Vineyard on Saturday evenings for island-made wine and free live music on their comfy tasting room patio. Meander through Friday Harbor and stop by the rooftop Skybar, the spacious outdoor patio of Madrone Cellars, or the fun San Juan Brewery for more live music and lovely, island-made libations and fare.