An Island without Starbucks - 5 Cool Coffee Shops in Friday Harbor

Part of the quaint charm of beautiful Friday Harbor is its utter lack of corporate food chains. No McDonalds, no Arby’s, no billboards, no traffic lights. You may say: “That’s fascinating, but not before I had my coffee.” We understand. So where do you go for a good cup of Joe here on the isle? Fear not. Here are 5 Earthbox staff and guest approved choices on how to stay properly caffeinated while in paradise:

1) Crow’s Nest Coffee Shoppe at the Earthbox Pool Patio

Wake up at the Earthbox and get the best cup of coffee right here by our pool. The acclaimed Crow's Nest Coffee Shoppe is operating a tiny summer sister coffee shop by our pool patio this 2024 season. The authentic, artisan coffee shop serves rare Vivace bean coffee, brewed to perfection, has an excellent Chai selection, homemade sandwiches, granola, and pastries.

Crow's Nest at Earthbox is open 7:00am to noon, mid June to mid September, closed Tuesday & Wednesday. Yumm!

2) Riptide Cafe

Directly on the water, underneath Downriggers Restaurant you'll find the beautiful Riptide Cafe, crafting Stumptown Coffee drinks and serving local, freshly baked scones, muffins and sweets, emphasizing natural and organic ingredients, as well as savory pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Get a cup and a sandwich to-go before boarding your whale watch boat just steps away.

3) Roy’s Drive Thru

The perfect choice on your way to hiking or kayaking, Roy’s makes outstanding coffee, milk shakes, hot dogs, sandwiches and more. 25 Nichols Street, open 7:00am to 3:30pm daily.

4) The Sweet Retreat

A block from the Earthbox at 264 Spring Street. Open from 7:00am to 4:00pm. A pick up window for a quick, uncomplicated bite and a coffee. Espresso, breakfast sandwiches, hot dogs, pastries, ice cream. Our favorite: Breakfast sausage ciabatta with a real fruit shake.

5) San Juan Coffee Roasting Co

When you park in the ferry lanes for your trip home, you have to walk down the few steps to Cannery Landing for a pound of island roasted coffee to take home, an iced Mocca, handmade truffles and a scoop of ice cream. 18 Cannery Lane Landing.

For more excellent coffee choices, please check out our Breakfast blog