A Beautiful Coastal Town In Washington Boasts Plenty Of Scenic, Outdoor Fun

While Washington State is blessed with an amazing amount of jaw-dropping scenery in the form of snow-capped mountains, ethereal and lush rainforests, shimmering lakes, and windswept ocean beaches with iconic rock formations, one of the state's most precious gems is the San Juan Islands. Situated in the Salish Sea near the border with Canada, this archipelago of more than 170 submerged rises features hidden coves, stands of evergreens, lakes, rolling fields, and picturesque little settlements, including Friday Harbor.

Nestled in a shallow inlet on San Juan Island, Friday Harbor may be the largest town in the San Juans, but it never loses its sleepy vibes. The town itself boasts historic wooden houses, native carvings, cool cafes, and a surprisingly good food scene. It's also home to a waterfront park that's a terrific place to spot orcas and whales moving through the local waters.

Friday Harbor is a perfect coastal launch pad for exploring San Juan Island, as well as the surrounding channels and inlets. Whether it's hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, cycling, birding, or casting a line for the salmon that run through the waters during certain times of the year, Friday Harbor is an ideal weekend getaway. Here — just three hours from the buzz and bustle of Seattle — you'll find yourself in a world of quiet beaches, fresh air, and pastoral island perfection.

Long home to the Coast Salish first nations people, the San Juan Islands were named for the viceroy of New Spain by a Spanish expedition to the area in 1790. They were eventually transferred to the United States in 1819, though, in 1859, the Americans and British nearly erupted into open battle in the islands over a border dispute known as the Pig War (the conflict's only casualty was a hog).

Today, the town of Friday Harbor is home to just under 3,000 people and is known for its chilled-out vibes, as well as its unspoiled natural surroundings. Start by renting bikes in town and peddling around the island before hiking up Young Hill. This 587-foot rise offers arresting views of the San Juans, Canada's Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, and the Olympic Peninsula — home to one of the country's best national parks for backpacking. Sit down for a picnic lunch at the stunning San Juan Islands Sculpture Park, and while you're out and about, stop by Lime Kiln Point State Park. The preserve on the west side of the island sits on a rocky cliff and not only has an old-school lighthouse but also bills itself as one of the best whale watching spots on Earth.

However, much of the action in Friday Harbor happens out on the surrounding saltwater. Sea Quest is located in town and rents out stand up paddleboards as well as kayaks.  Discover Sea Kayaks also has everything you need to explore the inlets and shores of the island (this outfitter has good reviews and also offers a bioluminescence tour). While you're gliding along the surface of the water, keep your eyes open for marine wildlife, including seals, sea lions, porpoises, whales, and the ever-present orcas.

While Friday Harbor is surrounded by scenic outdoor views, the town itself is also full of plenty to see and do. For a bit of education on the local fauna, stop by the Whale Museum, which is dedicated to the preservation of the Southern Resident group of orcas. The islands are also home to a vibrant community of artists, so it should come as no surprise that Friday Harbor's San Juan Islands Museum of Art is a terrific showcase for homegrown talent.

When it comes time to sit down for a drink, pop into the San Juan Island Brewing Company for an expertly concocted ale or two, or sip a rich coffee, shake, or smoothie at Sweet Retreat and Espresso. The town also boasts a wealth of quality eateries drawing from the excellent fresh ingredients available in the area. The Market Chef is a highly regarded deli where all the food is made from scratch. Westcott Bay Shellfish Co. specializes in locally harvested oysters and mussels, while the Friday Harbor House features farm-sourced food with one of the best views in town.

After eating, stroll down to Fairweather Park on the town's scenic waterfront. This little park features grass and picnic tables along with a small waterfall, and offers sublime views of the town's picture-perfect harbor. There are also works of art, including red cedar house post carvings that honor the Coast Salish people. Friday Harbor is about three hours from Seatac International Airport by car and ferry, which you catch in the town of Anacortes. For more of the splendor found throughout the San Juans, check out Lopez, considered to be the friendliest island in the archipelago.