Friday Harbor House

Resting atop a spectacular bluff, Friday Harbor House has a panoramic view of the island's marina, ferry landing, San Juan Channel and Mount Constitution on neighboring Orcas Island. Out of the hustle and bustle of town, while located mere blocks away from all the shopping, dining, galleries and entertainment venues, Friday Harbor is one of the most well-loved destinations in all of the San Juan Islands.

Rooms with a Seagull's View

There are 23 guestrooms in all, including a one-bedroom suite and three town-view suites. Each room features elegant natural wood furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows that capture dramatic island views. All have a private bath, fireplace with sitting area, and oversized Jacuzzi tub. The European queen bed with custom comforter adds a special touch. (The town-view suites have king beds.)

For the ultimate romantic getaway, ask to have a room with a private balcony. There is something magical about relaxing outside with a glass of wine, watching the last ferry sail into view with its lights reflected on the water. The seagulls' cries from the day have fallen silent and all you hear is water lapping against the docks and occasional laughter drifting from a boat on anchor. In-room amenities include bathrobes, coffee maker, television and refrigerator.

Winemaker Dinners are the Specialty of the House

Friday Harbor House offers a sophisticated culinary experience under the direction of executive chef Matt Colony. With a culinary arts degree from Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute in London, he excels in planning and preparing memorable winemaker dinners.

The four- and six-course meals are paired with wines such as Penfolds, Pepper Bridge and Owen-Sullivan wineries. Seasonal farm-fresh island fare and locally caught fish prepared with a global influence make the dinners unforgettable. The Wescott Bay oysters come highly recommended, as are the mussels from Lopez Island (two ferry stops to the east), but Mardi's favorite is the Lopez lamb. Made with fresh local herbs, it knows no rival.

Come morning, the complimentary continental breakfast is extraordinary. From freshly baked scones to the house-made granola, which some believe to be the best on the West coast. Plus, the fruit is always fresh.

Island Adventures Abound

The inn's San Juan gathering room is a comfortable lounge area for reading a book by the fire or watching a movie on the 52" plasma screen. Outdoor pursuits include fishing, sailing, sea kayaking, plus whale watching and sea life cruises. For landlubbers, there is great hiking and bicycling on the island (and you might try your hand at geo-teaming).

Island-hopping is an activity you too can enjoy as a walk-on to the frequent ferries that arrive and depart just blocks from Friday Harbor House. At night, Mardi and I enjoy a starlit stroll along the docks. Boaters are buttoning down for the night, or sitting topside for an evening chat with another skipper about their comings and goings around the islands.

On our last trip we walked on the ferry with our bikes. The island is so great for rural rides and beautiful views. Pick up the free road map on the ferry and use it to plan out your routes.