Tucker House Inn

Built in 1898 in the Victorian-style, the Tucker House Inn was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Clarence M. Tucker. Located one and one half blocks above the ferry landing in a quiet residential neighborhood, this home is rich in island history.

Mr. Tucker came to San Juan Island to build and operate a grist mill. Although the mill struggled to stay in operation, Clarence became involved in the town's economic growth, serving as County Treasurer. Today, the Tucker House Inn welcomes guests at the original Tucker home as well as the Joy House (a second Victorian house built at the turn of the century) and two guest cottages.

Innkeepers with a Worldly Vision

A sister property of the neighboring Harrison House Suites, the Tucker House Inn is owned by David Pass and Anna Maria de Freitas. The two visited Friday Harbor in August of 2004 during their 5-year quest to find the perfect B&B opportunity. The next year, the owner of the Tucker House asked David if they were interested in buying this B&B as well.

After some brainstorming, David and Anna Maria realized that the Tucker House was complementary to the Harrison House and they moved forward with the purchase. Having spent years traveling the world to many B&Bs, David and Anna Maria have a deep understanding of the service, surroundings, and the importance of all the little details that go into creating an exceptional guest experience. Along with innkeeper Michael Buckley, their love of entertaining and sharing fine cooked meals is evident throughout your stay.

With manicured gardens, outdoor patios and a large, private deck, the casual elegance of the Tucker House Inn is carried into the many common areas including the sitting room, the solarium and the sun room. All the guest rooms are furnished with antiques and have private baths.

Upper House, Lower House, or a Cottage?

The upper Tucker House (the Joy House) has five guest rooms and four of those rooms have fireplaces as well as two-person Jacuzzi tubs. Hardwood flooring and beautiful oriental rugs complement the decor throughout. The lower Tucker House has three guest suites. Two offer Jacuzzi tubs and one, a two bedroom, two-bath suite has a wood burning stove. The two cottages have private baths, kitchenettes, and wood burning stoves.

Our favorite is the Four Winds suite. This three-room suite offers sweeping views of the town and surrounding hills. From the king bed in the bedroom with French doors leading to a sitting area, to the fireplace and private balcony, to the vaulted ceilings and oversized hand-tiled private bath with a two-person Jacuzzi tub, this suite has everything you need for a romantic stay.

A Page from Anna Maria's Cookbook

Anna Maria's cookbook, La Cucina Anna Maria: Good Life Recipes from San Juan Island, is the result of her culinary experiences and inspires her menu.

Served at the Garden Café in the neighboring Harrison House, the complimentary breakfast consists of four courses-fresh fruit, granola with stirred yogurt, the hot entrée of the day and dessert. Should you fall in love with the granola (as we did!) know that you can purchase it to enjoy back at your house on the mainland.

I bought Anna Maria's cookbook and each time I prepare a recipe I remember the wonderful week I spend exploring San Juan Island.