May Favorites in Friday Harbor

May on San Juan Island is festive and lovely. As the isle is bathed in wildflowers, the whales return and the pastures, prairies and the serene Salish Sea are speckled with baby wildlife. Come celebrate Mother’s Day and History Month with sumptuous brunches, oyster lunches, guided walks and everything San Juan Island has to offer before school is out and the fun Summer season kicks off. Here are our May Favorites:

Explore the cute coastal town of Friday Harbor

Find Bird Rock Hotel a block from the ferry landing and in the heart of town. Simply cross the street to visit the acclaimed Whale Museum, delicious Vinny’s Ristorante and the lovely, local libations and live entertainment at the Madrone Cellars & Ciders tasting room. Go on a self-guided historical walk, check out the poetry gardens, galleries and farm-to-table restaurants. Poke your head into Griffin Bay Books for an author reading, dance to the live, free music at the Brewery and don’t miss the new exhibitions at the Museum of Art.

Mother’s Day Extravaganza

Have fresh flowers waiting in your Friday Harbor hotel room for Mom. Treat her to a shopping spree at all the cute shops and boutiques just steps from our hotel. Take her out for Mother’s Day mimosas at the Sky Bar and a bodacious brunch at Downriggers on the waterfront. Book her a relaxing massage and rejuvenating facial at the adorable Spa at Earthbox and get tickets for the newest play at the fabulous San Juan Community Theatre.

Guided Whale & Wildlife Tour

Our friends at San Juan Safaris offer whale & wildlife tours every day in May in search of Orcas, Humpbacks, sea lions, dolphins and more. Go on an exhilarating ride on an open air zodiac or glide through the Salish Sea in style on the comfy, double decker Osprey, while sipping a beer from the galley.

May is History Month

History is everywhere on San Juan Island. As soon as you step foot off the ferry, you are greeted by the gorgeous Portals of Welcome, a totem by Salish Coast artist Susan Point. Learn more about the Coast Salish People who have fished, gathered and hunted here since time immemorial at the comprehensive Visitor’s Center at American Camp National Historical Park. Check out pioneer life at the outdoor Historical Museum in downtown Friday Harbor and don’t miss the two historic lighthouses on the isle.

Guided Hikes & Tours

Leave your car behind and the planning to Jason from Trace your Trail. Jason will pick you up at our Friday Harbor hotel, take you on the most stunning island hikes, serves you lunch and brings you right back. Tours start mid-May.

Favorite May Events

Experience the fun Farmers Market in downtown every Saturday. Visit for the First Friday Friday Harbor Arts Walk. Sip local wine to free, live music at the gorgeous San Juan Vineyard every Saturday. Treat yourself to fresh oysters and local libations at the stunning Westcott Bay Seafood Farm and don’t miss our authentic, small town Memorial Day Parade and celebration on Memorial Day proper.