🏝️ San Juan Island | A Serene Escape Near Seattle

I recently visited San Juan Island for research at FHL and ended up falling for its quiet charm. Took an early ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor — and jumped straight into fieldwork right after landing. Rainy-day boating was no joke: choppy, cold, and dizzying… but it was all worth it for the meaningful data 🧪 — and the surprise appearance of playful sea lions that totally made my day! 🦭 🍽️ Food Finds on the Island: Downrigger’s ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tried the clam chowder, Buddha bowl with shrimp, and pan-seared sockeye salmon — all solid! Great location right next to the ferry station. Sweet Retreat & Espresso ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cozy spot for a hearty American breakfast — a spicy chai + meat lover’s croissant totally hit the spot! Golden Triangle ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thai/Vietnamese joint serving comforting beef pho and sweet Thai iced tea — perfect for a chilly day. Jima Sushi ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Our pre-ferry stop — simple sushi, nothing fancy but decent. 🌅 Sights & Stops: Lighthouse at the island’s west end 🗼 Just a 2-minute trail from the parking lot to sweeping ocean views. On a clear day, you can even see Victoria, Canada across the water! The Whale Museum 🐋 Home to impressive adult whale skeletons and even fetal specimens — moving and educational. 📘 A little life-update-style post — thanks for reading my island diary 😊 🏷️ #SanJuanIsland #FridayHarbor #SeattleWeekend #IslandLife #PNWTravel #SeaYouSoon