Part II in the series:
Tips for Planning a Wedding in The San Juan Islands
Look at you, you lucky bride! The Pacific Northwest has so many beautiful places to get married, but you managed to snag one in perhaps the loveliest. I’m talking about one of my absolute favorite places to visit, the San Juan Islands. Growing up in Bellingham, the San Juans were basically in my backyard and a short ferry boat trip away. So, my love runs deep; which is great for you because it means I can help you out with your must-sees/visits/dos. More specifically, I can set you up with what your GUESTS should see/visit/do. After all, unless you are honeymooning there, too, you’re going to be plenty busy already!
Each of the islands has their fantastic attractions, I’ll be focusing specifically on San Juan Island itself, and Orcas.
Where to Stay
Roche Harbor Resort
San Juan Island
The Roche Harbor Resort is a San Juan Island landmark, and easily one of my favorite places to visit. Even if you don’t end up booking rooms there, it’s worth a visit to see the perfectly cared for grounds. And visit one it’s three restaurants with spectacular views while you’re there or book a spa treatment to pamper yourself. The Roche Harbor Resort knows how to spoil their guest.
The Haro Hotel is perhaps one of the most iconic buildings on the island, boasting beautiful, albeit smaller rooms full of old charm. The five front-row cottages offer a simple, more secluded place to stay with a beautiful view of the sunset. The resort also offers larger, fully updated rooms and suites, townhouses and condos. Each one is holding onto that breezy island feeling, where things feel like they’re moving just a little more slowly. Don’t worry though. While island life moves a little bit more slowly, that doesn’t mean the islands aren’t bursting with energy.
Rosario Resort & Spa
Orcas Island
Centered around the historic Moran Mansion, Rosario Resort & Spa boasts 88 guestrooms and suites over its 40-acre property. The Mansion itself does not contain any guestrooms but instead offers The Mansion Restaurant, spa and The Moran Mansion Museum. The Museum is a must visit for any history buff or nautical lover. All of the guest rooms offer a wide-open view of Cascade Bay, but I think the Roundhouse (formerly the Moran kid’s Playhouse) is one of the coolest…however, it’s not really all that kid-friendly. And if you’re staying with another family/couple, definitely consider The Residences.
Bed & Breakfasts
The Bed & Breakfasts on the San Juans are numerous and absolutely worth considering during your guest’s stay (or yours even)! Almost all the B&B’s offer free wifi, obviously breakfast, and all of them are taken care of magnificently. Be on top of it though, with fewer rooms available than the resort and hotels, these rooms fill up fast and cost a little more in the peak season. You have to admit it though; there is something so enchanting about a cute little B&B. Start with this short list of some of the best to get started:
What To Do
Roche Harbor Resort
San Juan Island
How many wedding locations can boast whale watching?! From May-Oct, the San Juans are visited by three whale pods, with over 75 orcas. That’s not even mentioning the other wildlife with humpback and minke whales, bald eagles, seals and sea lions. You may even have the opportunity to do some of that viewing while kayaking, which is another must do for your adventurous guests. Kayak tours are available for 3-hour, 5-hour or multi-day tours. Equipment is also available for rent by the hour. For the land lovers, the island boasts a great trail system, which is easy to follow, with the option of smaller loops, so your guests can enjoy nature without having to worry about getting to the rehearsal dinner late because they got lost.
Lastly, while you are checking out the cute boutiques and ice cream shops, take a second to enjoy a game of Bocce. Roche Harbor has two, side-by-side 65-foot bocce courts which are complimentary to visitors. All of your guests, whether young or just young at heart, can appreciate a little competitive game.
Friday Harbor
San Juan Island
Odds are you got to San Juan Island through Friday Harbor. And while you may have driven onto the island, once you’re there, find a place to park that car and get out and walk! Friday Harbor wasn’t really made for a lot of car traffic, but it is perfect for foot traffic. With dozens of restaurants, a few great bars, and plenty of waterfront views (sensing a pattern here, yet??) it’s easy to spend an entire day just enjoying perhaps the liveliest town of all the islands.
Orcas Island
The wildlife and natural escapes are just as wonderful on Orcas as they are on San Juan, so no worries about missing out by picking on island or the other there. If you’re looking for a little natural healing, and spas aren’t really your thing, check out Doe Bay Hot Springs. The whole Doe Bay Resort is a nice getaway if your guests are looking for something a bit more rustic. They have the option of cabins, yurts and simple campsites. Why not turn a wedding trip into a family camping trip after the “I do’s”? Orcas Island’s cute little shopping center in the Eastsound is a great way to spend ½ a day, just perusing the small shops and grabbing a bite to eat. I highly suggest checking out New Leaf Café if you’re wanting something a little more upscale, and Island Skillet if you want to eat like a local.
While I can give you all the suggestions in the world, one of the best things to do on either island is simply to put on a comfy pair of shoes and explore. You won’t be disappointed.
