Why do they call it Friday Harbor?

The shepherd was a native of the Hawaiian Islands, then known as the Sandwich Islands. He thought the oarsmen were asking his name and replied, “Friday.” Thereafter the smoke from Friday’s wooden shack served to guide seafarers into the bay. Subsequently the town became known as Friday’s Harbor.

Should I bring my car to Friday Harbor?

There’s no need for a car to see Friday Harbor. Everything is within walking distance of the ferry landing, and it is easy to get around, including shuttle buses and a trolley to take you around the island, as well as bike, three-wheeled Scootcoupe, and moped rentals.

Are there bears on the San Juan Islands?

A bear is a rare sight around the San Juan Islands but one bear has been spotted several times over the last couple weeks on quite the island hopping journey. ORCAS, Wash.

Which is better Orcas Island or San Juan Island?

As we eluded to above, Orcas Island is larger than San Juan Island. With a bit more real estate, the lack of and incorporated town and and a more aggressive terrain with dense Northwest woodland, Orcas Island feels pretty secluded, more remote and, depending on your perspective, more relaxing than San Juan Island.

Can you get around San Juan Island without a car?

Getting around the island without a car can be achieved through the San Juan Island Transit shuttle or the Jolly Trolley. I recommend the shuttle as it’s easy and inexpensive ($5 one way). You can also rent bikes and mopeds at various shops around Friday Harbor or take taxis.

Is Friday Harbor an island?

Friday Harbor is a fantastic getaway destination in the San Juan Islands of far northwest Washington State. It’s a historic community set on San Juan Island itself – one of the largest of the archipelago. The town and surrounding island are accessible only by boat or seaplane.

What celebrities live on San Juan Island?

Bill Gates, Steve Miller, and Tom Skerritt are some of the other well-known people who own estates on the San Juan Islands.

How long is ferry ride from Friday Harbor to Anacortes?

approximately 1 hour
Make your trip on the ferries smooth sailing The ferry ride from Anacortes to San Juan Island (Friday Harbor) is approximately 1 hour. To reach Anacortes from Interstate-5, take exit #230 at Burlington.

Are there cougars on San Juan Island?

Cougars live in all corners of Washington state, from the foothills in Issaquah to the eastern mountains to the San Juan Islands.

Are there sharks in the San Juan Islands?

We also used to see vast schools of spiny dogfish sharks in the San Juan Islands. These small 1 meter long sharks were so abundant that they sometimes covered several acres of water as they chased shoals of herring.

What is the best month to visit San Juan Islands?

The best time to visit the San Juan Islands is between April and October. July and August are the warmest months to visit and also the busiest. The summer months bring on peak prices, too. Knowing how to visit the islands efficiently can help you enjoy your time there without draining your pocketbook.

Are there Ubers on San Juan Island?

A: You won’t find Uber or Lyft in the San Juan Islands. Instead, take the transit or trolley around San Juan Island, rent a car or scoot coupe, or bring your bike. Orcas and Lopez Island have less transportation options, so bringing your car is recommended.