Top Hotels in San Juan Islands
Top Things to do in San Juan Islands
10 Top-Rated Hotels in San Juan Islands, Washington
Start your Pacific Northwest vacation in style, with a seaplane or ferry ride to the San Juan Islands from Seattle. It’s the ultimate way to take in the beauty of this region that Mother Nature has so abundantly blessed. You have a choice of three alluring islands – Lopez, the most rural, a mix of rolling farmland and beaches; Orcas, the largest of the San Juan Islands and replete with verdant mountains and placid lakes; and San Juan Island, where vibrant Friday Harbor welcomes ferry and seaplane guests and offers an array of charming accommodations and gourmet eateries. Whether it’s whale-watching and sea kayaking, touring an art gallery or browsing a local farmers’ market, the San Juan Islands offer pleasing diversions for every age and interest. For the best chance to view orca whales and other sea life, plan your trip between April and September – a number of tour operators are available throughout the islands. Rev up your energy level with biking tours through rolling meadows and farmland, go birding on San Juan Island, hike the region’s modest mountains – offering outstanding vistas from the top – or go charter fishing for the day. Other favorites include hiking to Lime Kiln Lighthouse on San Juan Island, taking a scenic flight over the area, attending an outdoor summer concert in the park and horseback riding.
Things to do in San Juan Islands
1. Friday Harbor Suites
Overall Ratings
4 based on 227 reviews
A comfortable and friendly hotel in a quiet location just half a mile from the harbor - enjoy the unique architecture of a true island favorite. At Friday Harbor Suites you will have plenty of space to enjoy your scrupulously clean room with private patio and separate bedroom, plus a living room with a pull-out sofabed, and an eating area with refrigerator and microwave. As is wifi, parking and on-demand shuttle service to the ferry, the airport, the harbor, shopping and local in-town restaurants. Ask the friendly front desk staff for suggestions for beautiful walking and sightseeing trails, and scenic drives that will take you around the island before returning to your beautiful private suite. Friday Harbor Suites isn't snooty - it simply offers the most comfortable and spacious rooms on San Juan Island. We now have a four bedroom 3 bath house available for rent on the property and it is a great way to save money if you are looking for multiple rooms at a great price !
Dingy & Outdated, Needs Updating
Reviewed By B7668RBdeborahsGreat location & nice setting off the the main street In Friday Harbor, the rooms are large & have a nice seating area. But this hotel needs updating & cleaning. I don't think I'd call it "dirty" but shabby & sad come to mind. The bed was horrible, the covers were dismal & the pillows lumpy & old. Plumbing works but took 20 minutes to fill the tub 1/2 way. White towels were grey & dingy needed to be replaced. Hallways are depressing, long windy & confusing. I would not recommend this place, book elsewhere.
2. Edenwild Boutique Inn
Overall Ratings
5 based on 313 reviews
Welcome to The Edenwild, an island Victorian Hotel that is friendly not stuffy. We are located in the heart of the Quaint Village of Lopez. We offer you an elegant, intimate experience and the opportunity to de-stress and restore in a beautiful, natural setting. Lopez Island has so much to offer from beach combing, biking, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and more. Let us share our sweet little Island with you and help you experience the wild paradise of the San Juan Islands.
Wonderful boutique hotel on Lopez
Reviewed By 68jantWonderful place to relax and stay on Lopez. It is up-to-date, nicely set up, and comfortable. Very clean. Located right in the middle of Lopez village, so close to stores, restaurants, market. We stayed during COVID so breakfast was provided to go, but it was better quality than most hotels provide when dining in. Highly recommended when on Lopez - this must be the best hotel on Lopez (that I know of)
3. Discovery Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 720 reviews
The Discovery Inn is known as the friendly hotel in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Located a mile from the ferry landing, our hotel features spacious and clean rooms in a relaxing atmosphere with a delightful park-like setting. Our recently renovated rooms feature air-conditioning, private bath, one or two queen beds, Keurig coffee maker, flat screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Please be our guest and enjoy our renowned customer service, lovely property with yard games and sitting areas and decks with flowers, barbecues and our seasonal outdoor Jacuzzi (May 1 - October 31). The Discovery Inn provides free trip planning and concierge services. The Discovery Inn has been a family-owned and operated hotel for almost 40 years.
Nice visit
Reviewed By allycatt30We enjoyed our week long visit. We thought the rooms were clean and comfortable. An added bonus was the coffee, microwave and small fridge we didn’t realize we would have. It’s a good location, close to town. We also had good wifi and had no trouble connecting to the internet. There was also a large television in the room, on the wall. The only one negative was the shower curtain. It had the smell of something that sits in the washer too long. We would definitely stay again.
4. The Orca Inn
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 343 reviews
Spend a night...Not a fortune! It's really simple: Smaller Rooms = Smaller Rates. At The Orca Inn, we are proud to offer the smallest rooms in the state of Washington! Which means we have the lowest hotel room rates on San Juan Island. (Of course, for just a few dollars more, we have larger King and Double Queen rooms). With the money you save, you can spend more on amazing whale watching tours, incredible kayak trips, and other island adventures that you will remember for a lifetime. As Mr. Carson once said, "The business of life is the acquisition of memories." And at the Orca Inn, business is good!
Decent for price, but watch out for being double-charged
Reviewed By 618tiannaaI paid for the room online, then when I went to check-in, she asked for my credit card. As she was typing in the numbers, it occurred to me to ask if she was about to charge my card for the room, and she said yes. I had to explain that I had already paid for it, and she said the system didn’t show her that. After doing something on the computer for a few minutes, she finally said everything was fine and gave us our room key without charging my card. The room was small and very clean. The water heater only allows for one shower every 25 minutes, so we had to stagger our showers. The bed was rather saggy, so it could use being flipped or replaced. I’d recommend this economical stay, although make sure you don’t get double-charged!
5. Deer Harbor Inn
Overall Ratings
4 based on 286 reviews
Finding an ideal family-friendly hotel in Deer Harbor does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Deer Harbor Inn, a nice option for travelers like you. Guest rooms offer a flat screen TV and a refrigerator, and Deer Harbor Hotel makes getting online easy as free wifi is available. In addition, guests can enjoy a hot tub and an on-site restaurant during their visit. As an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. There is no shortage of things to do in the area: explore popular marinas such as Deer Harbor Marina. Deer Harbor Inn puts the best of Deer Harbor at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.
Read this if you don't want be locked out in heavy snow
Reviewed By Abhi0123I stayed at the Inn for two nights and it was quite memorable, albeit not for good reasons. Ferry dropped me off after 11 PM! It had also started snowing. Google Maps directed me past a fire station to a steep downhill that I didn’t dare going down because of the icy conditions. There were houses around, and I saw lights in the windows, but no one answered when I knocked on the doors for help with directions. Finally, someone came out and told me to get back on the main road and the Inn would be on my right. Having arrived at the property, I was confused where my room was. From the pictures I had seen, it seemed like the room would be in the lodge but the front door was locked. I called Vacasa, and had the distinct displeasure of speaking with their dumbest and rudest CSR, who kept insisting that I put in the passcode I had received in email, although she couldn’t say where because there was no keypad in sight. I found the office at the center of the property, and there were numbered boxes with keypads on the exterior wall, but my code didn’t work on the one that had my room number. The Vacasa CSR gave me a “backup code” that opened the box, but when I tried the key at the door, it wasn’t the right key! At that time the Vacasa rep hung up saying her job was done. Never mind the key was useless. I then went around and tried the key at every door of the property, at every cottage, and it didn’t open any doors. By this time, it was snowing heavily and past 1 AM. 2 hours had passed since my arrival. I had no cell phone reception except for the front (locked) door of the lodge. As a last-ditch attempt, I went into the office one more time and found a phone number for a Craig Carpenter on the bulletin board. Upon calling several times, Mr. Carpenter answered and identified himself as the owner of the property. As I explained to him the situation, he said he was going to call the local Vacasa manager, and call me back. After about 10 minutes, he did call me back and said that his son, who lives nearby, is arriving to help. Once the junior Carpenter arrived, he was instructed to take a bunch of keys from the office and try them all at the door! Which he did as I shone a light, but none of the keys worked. He called his dad again and was told to try and get a window open. He was able to remove the screen from a window and force it open, then climb through it and open the main door! The room actually was on the 2nd floor and did have a lockbox beside the door, which opened when I put on my passcode and presented the room key. The next morning, I received a call from the local Vacasa manager who told me that the main door wasn’t supposed to be locked. He apologized profusely and refunded me the room charge for the 1st night. He also said he would change the locks on the doors so that no one is locked out again. Here are the things I see wrong with this experience: 1. I understand there’s no resident manager/caretaker at the property but there *needs* to be an emergency phone number for someone who can assist quickly. 2. There are sign boards for the inn, but those aren’t lit. If there were well-lit signs, I’d have spotted it from the road and avoided half the misery. 3. I was given a room number but not told where this room was. A property map should be included with every reservation confirmation showing where the guest would be staying. As for the room itself, it was decorated in a rustic fashion. The bed was made of logs, and so was the towel hanger. Cleanliness: I found the coffee maker to be dusty and the pot had some leftover water with coffee flakes floating in it, ewe. The bed and the towels looked clean enough. Overall, 3/5. I’d have given it a one if not for the helpful owner and the local Vacasa manager but they have to do much better.
6. Lopez Islander Resort
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 149 reviews
Welcome to Lopez Islander Resort, your Lopez Island “home away from home.” Lopez Islander Resort aims to make your visit as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, which is why so many guests continue to come back year after year. Given the close proximity to our unique little village (1.0 mi), guests of Lopez Islander Resort can easily experience the friendly vibe of our locals and village business owners that make our Island so special. Guest rooms offer amenities such as a flat screen TV, some with kitchenettes, they all have a microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker. The property also boasts a pool, hot tub and an on-site restaurant, to help make your stay more enjoyable. If you are driving to Lopez Islander Resort, free parking is available. While staying on Lopez Island, you can check out a popular deli like Vita's, famous Holly B's bakery and more. Looking to explore? Our Island is only 15 miles long and 8 miles wide so its pretty easy to check out all the Island has to offer if bringing a car. Leave the car at home and park at our free parking lot right above the Anacortes ferry landing and we will pick you up on the Lopez side. Call for details Lopez Islander Resort puts the best of Lopez Island at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.
A room with a view and much more :)
Reviewed By SjmodoWe really enjoyed our weekend away in Lopez Island. The Islander resort had a nice big room that was pet friendly. We enjoyed sunset views from our balcony. We eye at the Tiki bar which has excellent wings and coconut shrimp. A bit on the pricey side but you have to realize where you are and what it takes to get supplies. It was a sleepy late March weekend when we were there. I imagine this place is busy busy in season. Plan ahead!
7. San Juan Island Hostel
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 14 reviews
San Juan Island Hostel located in the middle of downtown Friday Harbor is a convenient walk to the ferry, shopping, restaurants and more. If you are on a budget and looking for a place to lay your head or just enjoy meeting new people, this is the perfect place for you. We offer private dorms and shared dorms, we also have a group dorm if you are coming with your friends. There is a common area with two 60 inch flat screen TV's, a pool table and a fully stocked kitchen with state of the art appliances for you to prepare meals. And for those warm days we also have a BBQ area. We invite you to come see the new Hostel on San Juan Island.
AVOID THIS HOMELESS SHELTER AT ALL COSTS
Reviewed By Ashleywest90This is the dirtiest hostel I’ve ever been to. We refused to take off our shoes unless we were in bed and even then, we slept fully clothed because we were so uncomfortable. We have stayed at hostels across the country and the world and this was by far the lowest of the low. The hostel also doubles as a homeless shelter! So there are homeless men hanging around inside and out all day long hoping for a room. The air smells like urine and body odor. The bathrooms were filthy with feces and urine. Most didnt even have toilet paper until today. The long term “residents” leave their toiletries in the bathroom and it’s just honestly disgusting. The fridge was FULL of fruit flies and other bugs. The homeless have their feet up on all the furniture. I wish I could leave zero stars.
8. Friday Harbor House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 701 reviews
Friday Harbor House perfectly complements the charm and serenity of the San Juan Islands and delightful shops and restaurants of the town. Upon entering our lobby, a friendly smile greets you. Your room features a cozy and romantic, Zen-like atmosphere with a picture window, a fireplace and an oversized, jetted tub-for-two that is the perfect way to wind down at the end of your day. Enjoy locally-sourced cuisine inspired by the Islands at the Friday Harbor House restaurant, all while admiring panoramic views of the San Juan Channel, ferry landing and marina.
Excellent accommodation, beautiful view and friendly welcome
Reviewed By RaisingdovesWe stayed in a harbor view king room for 4 nights and can recommend this place. Room was lovely, bathroom excellent and the views are fabulous. Appreciated the complimentary coffee both in the room as well as the lobby. We dined at Vinny’s Italian restaurant next door which was great. Would definitely stay here again if we return to the island.
9. Tucker House Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 663 reviews
Tucker House Inn is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Friday Harbor, offering a romantic environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. Close to some of Friday Harbor's most popular landmarks, such as American Camp (0.4 mi) and St Francis Catholic Church (0.5 mi), Tucker House Hotel is a great destination for tourists. Free wifi is offered to guests, and rooms at Tucker House Inn offer a flat screen TV and a kitchenette. During your stay, take advantage of some of the amenities offered, including a 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and baggage storage. Guests of Tucker House Hotel are also welcome to enjoy a hot tub and free breakfast, located on site. For travelers arriving by car, free parking is available. During your visit, be sure to check out one of Friday Harbor's popular oyster restaurants such as Friday Harbor House Restaurant, Vinny's Ristorante, and Downriggers, all a short distance from Tucker House Inn. Should time allow, IMA - San Juan Islands Museum of Art is a popular art museum that is relatively easy to get to. Enjoy your stay in Friday Harbor!
Replace the matress and loose the chemicals
Reviewed By susank838Moct important aspect of a accomadation is a good matress , between 10 and 11 pm, I went to bed only to find a matress that sagged about 6-7 inches. Boy were my hips sore in the morning ! The chemical sticks you use are just that - chemicals , we were able to solve this by placing these oueside for the duration of our stay. But subjecting all your guests to this personal preference or to cover up something is poor inn practice.
10. Bird Rock Hotel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 412 reviews
Bird Rock Hotel of Friday Harbor is a refreshing combination of an historic external structure and clean, modern interiors. Bird Rock Hotel’s authentic, original, old San Juan Island hotel exterior opens to an exquisitely crafted, eco-intelligent collection of stylishly modern interiors ranging from deluxe, harbor-view, king-jacuzzi suites to simple european-style sleeping rooms.
Great Hotel in Friday Harbor, San Juan Island WA - Bird Rock Hotel
Reviewed By gailw114The Bird Rock Hotel is a wonderful gem in Friday Harbor WA, on San Juan Island. It is right near the ferry and the town center and many great restaurants. My husband, adult daughter and I had a two room suite that was perfect for us. They provide coffee and tea. The beds are very comfortable. It was an excellent choice for our stay!
