Silent Nights & Salty Air – December on San Juan Island

Treat your family to a peaceful Winter retreat this Holiday season, without mall music or traffic, just twinkly lights, island time, and coastal, small-town cheer. Buy your gifties from local artist and artisans at cute holiday markets in walking distance to our Friday Harbor hotel. Go birding on the prairie and look for Orcas at the whale watching park, before having a delightful dinner on the waterfront. Relax, rejuvenate and make new memories on a tiny island this Christmas.

Christmas Tree Lighting

On the first Friday in December we gather, carol and sip hot coco, while Santa lights the town’s Christmas tree. Friday Harbor is enveloped in twinkly lights and shops are open late. Head to the Grange overlooking the waterfront afterwards for pics with Santa, snacks and crafts.

Chardonnay Shopping

On the first Thursday of December get your holiday shopping done in style. Support local businesses and restaurants while enjoying special discounts, extended hours, raffles and, since you don’t have to drive anywhere, Chardonnay.

Holiday Markets

Don’t miss the Old-Fashioned Holiday Market at Brickworks over the second weekend of December. Browse crafts, island-made food like sea salt and smoked salmon, local wellness products, and other gifts for the holidays, plus tons of kids’ activities.

Head over to the Grange Hall on Sunday, December 14, 2025, for the Maker’s Market.

Treat yourself to the indoor Saturday Farmers Market on December 6 and 20, 2025, complete with delicious food, festive arts and crafts, chair massages and free, live music.

Beach Day

Tucked into the Olympic rain-shadow, San Juan Island enjoys over 247 days of sunshine. Head to the beach, fly a kite, watch for foxes and otters, loons and eagles, find the prettiest stones and coolest driftwood before getting cozy in our indoor pool, sauna and hot tub.

Museum, Art & Movie Day

Bring the kids to the amazing Friday Harbor Whale Museum with real whale skeletons, interactive displays and the coolest gift shop. Send the teens down the block to watch a movie at the Historic Palace Theater by themselves. Explore the Winter exhibitions at the acclaimed Museum of Art and nine Friday Harbor galleries.

Christmas Dinner at COHO

The cozy farm-to-table restaurant COHO, just steps from our Friday Harbor hotel, offers awe-inspiring, set, 5-course dinners on all holidays. Treat yourself to an unforgettable Christmas or New Year’s Eve dining experience. Make your reservations early.