The San Juan Islands ferry route is now a SCENIC BYWAY.
From Seattle: drive to the town of Anacortes and take the ferry to San Juan Island.
Anacortes is where one would take the ferry to come across to all the San Juan Islands. The ferry ride from Anacortes to San Juan Island (Friday Harbor) is approximately 1 hour.
The Washington State ferry lands in Friday Harbor, which is on the east side of San Juan Island.
If you are driving up from Seattle, you do not need to bring your car across on the ferry, in our opinion.
There are many ways of getting around San Juan Island. The small town of Friday Harbor is walkable. It is only about 4 blocks by 4 blocks.
There are also bicycles, mopeds and scoot cars for rent near the ferry landing, plus there is shuttle bus to the other side of the island.
Fly from Anacortes to San Juan Island
If you cannot make a ferry, miss your ferry or prefer not to take the ferry, you can also fly from Anacortes (apr. $55 pp) San Juan Airlines.
Driving Directions From Seattle to Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA
Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours driving time.
Take Interstate 5 north to the Burlington exit (230). Turn west (left) on Highway 20 until you reach Anacortes.
Once in downtown Anacortes, follow the signs (San Juan Island Ferries) to the ferry landing where you will turn right to go in.
If you are NOT bringing your car across, stay to the left of the toll booths, park your car and purchase a walk on ferry ticket. (Passenger only is about $13 per adult - round trip)
If you are bringing your car across, stay in line at the toll booths. The approximate price for car & driver is about $50 (round trip), passengers extra. Put your car in line and wait as directed.
Departing from Lake Union, Seattle and Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
800-450-6858 or 360-378-1323
Departing from Lake Union, Seattle and Friday Harbor, San Juan Island