Historic Roche Harbor serves up a slice of luxury on San Juan Island. The resort town with marina, pool and spa attracts families and couples and gives easy access to hiking paths and multiple ocean-based activities.
In the late 19th century this old-world village became a company town for John McMillin’s lime works. Many of the historic buildings on the sloping hills overlooking the harbor have since been preserved and transformed into guest cottages and hotels.
Treat yourself to an overnight stay in the resort or just visit for a few hours of lavish dining, shopping and spa treatments. Take part in whale watching, kayaking or hiking tours or simply explore the harbor on foot.
The picturesque marina is a port of entry for pleasure boats. Stroll along the seafront to admire the fine-looking crafts along the seafront. It you love historic sites, check out the tiny 1892 Our Lady of Good Voyage chapel or the pioneer cemetery. Also take in the 1886 facade of the historic Hotel de Haro, which was named after one of the first Europeans to discover the San Juan Islands, Gonzalo López de Haro.
Restaurants also line the harbor, so enjoy fresh fish or other treats and enjoy the sea views. Each summer evening, the island’s history is honored with a traditional flag ceremony. Witness the cannon salute listen to the arrangement of American, British and Canadian recordings of national anthems.
In summer the village has a heated outdoor swimming pool, which stays open until the early evening and has a cafeteria. Play a round of Ping-Pong with the kids after playing in the water together.
Roche Harbor sits on the northwest of San Juan Island, just to the north of English Camp and Westcott Bay. Only Henry Island and the Haro Strait separate it from Vancouver Island in Canada. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to Roche Harbor from Friday Harbor, a scenic trip. Taking a water taxi is another scenic option, with a chance to spot marine creatures along the way.
