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When Earthbox Inn & Spa came up for sale in 2003, Laura and her family saw something others didn’t. What looked like a tired 1960s motor inn in the heart of Friday Harbor felt like an opportunity to create something special.
At the time, Laura had recently moved to San Juan Island with her two young daughters, looking for a life that balanced family, adventure, and meaningful work. Earthbox became the perfect place to bring those values together, combining her background in international management, her love of design, and a natural instinct for warm, thoughtful hospitality.
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The property itself needed vision. There was a chainlink fence around the pool, vinyl curtains, and orange bedspreads that had clearly seen better days. Instead of tearing it down and starting over, the decision was made to preserve the character of the original motor inn and reimagine it.
Over time, Earthbox was transformed with renovated rooms, landscaped gardens, and the addition of a full-service spa and seasonal coffee shop. It remains a work in progress and a true labor of love, with ongoing updates each winter to keep the property fresh, comfortable, and more environmentally thoughtful.
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Throughout the property, pieces of island history remain. The main lobby and gift shop are housed in a historic Spring Street building. The spa is located in a charming 1895 home once owned by Captain Cash of the Mosquito Fleet. Even Building D has its own story, having been barged over from Whidbey Island and thoughtfully repurposed into guest accommodations.
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Today, Earthbox offers something rare on San Juan Island: a relaxed, welcoming place to stay that blends vintage charm with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy the island’s only indoor heated hotel pool, along with a hot tub, sauna, and peaceful garden spaces.
Whether you’re here to explore, unwind, or simply slow down for a few days, Earthbox is designed to make your stay feel easy and restorative.
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We are proud to provide year-round employment with benefits to our team and to welcome seasonal staff from around the world each summer. Caring for this place also means caring for the island we call home, and for the people who make it so special.
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Earthbox continues to evolve, but the heart of it remains the same: a place built with care, creativity, and a genuine desire to help guests feel at home on San Juan Island.
Planning your stay on San Juan Island?
Take a look at our rooms and find the one that's for you: View Rooms