If we know anything about kids, we know that even when they’re off (like off school), they’re still on. Which is why setting them free on an island in the Salish Sea to run and explore—even when fewer shops and restaurants are open—is massively appealing.
Kids don’t care if the season is quiet. They are dynamic, growing, and curious. They are always ready for an adventure, and if you use our recommendations, they won’t even know they visited the island during its “off” season. They’ll be too busy talking about the eagles they saw, the trails they explored, and the history they learned. So, start packing the family’s layers because you’re about to have the best island time ever—even if the grass is soggy and the forecast is iffy.
You don’t need to overschedule yourselves like we often do on the mainland. You don’t even need to spend much money. Here are nine places to entertain kids on San Juan Island during the quiet season:
Kid-Friendly San Juan Island Attractions
American Camp
At the south end of San Juan Island with sweeping views of the Salish Sea, Americana Camp offers families one of the most engaging and educational outdoor experiences on the island. Kids will be captivated by this special place where history mixes with rolling prairies and forested trails, all while spotting wildlife that calls this gorgeous place home.
Kids love exploring the network of trails that crisscross American Camp. The paths are well-maintained and offer adventures for all ability levels. Along the way, historical signs tell the story of the “Pig War” and the mid-1800s military occupation in kid-friendly language.
Just a 15-minute drive from Friday Harbor, American Camp is the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, wildlife watching (they can search for the more than 200 species of migratory birds, bald eagles, and the island’s famous red foxes), and living history that will have your kids talking about their experience for years to come.
English Camp
If you’re going to American Camp, you have to go to English Camp, too—if only to see the differences in how each party set up literal camp.
Perched on the pretty shores of Garrison Bay, this preserved Royal Marine encampment from the famous “Pig War” brings history to life in a way that captivates young imaginations. Kids will be intrigued to learn that this peaceful park was once the site of an international standoff that began over that dang pig.
The park’s well-preserved historical buildings, formal garden, and cemetery make it easy for kids to envision life in the 1800s. When little legs need to burn energy, English Camp’s trail system offers options for every type of mini athlete. The easy 45-minute woodland and shoreline loop is great for younger children with opportunities to spot wildlife, while older kids might enjoy the more challenging adventure up Young Hill and through the historic cemetery. Located just 9 miles from Friday Harbor and 5 miles from Roche Harbor, English Camp combines outdoor exploration, historical discovery, and peaceful moments of wonder that create lasting family memories.
And, pssst! Come back to see us in the summer so the kids can become Junior Park Rangers at either camp.
Lime Kiln Point State Park
Kids will be thrilled by a visit to Lime Kiln Point State Park, often called “Whale Watch Park” for good reason! This 36-acre wonderland offers children the rare opportunity to possibly spot majestic orcas from the shore—no boat required. The park is considered one of the best places in the world to view whales from land, making it an unforgettable stop on your family’s island adventure. Young wildlife enthusiasts should bring binoculars and keep their eyes peeled for not just orcas but also gray whales, porpoises, seals, and sea lions swimming in the waters off the rocky shoreline.
Beyond whale watching, kids will love exploring the historic lighthouse built in 1919, where they can imagine life as a lighthouse keeper of long ago. During summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day—we hope you’ll come back and see us then), kids can participate in lighthouse tours and guided walks led by park interpreters who bring the marine environment to life through story. The Lime Kiln Point Interpretive Center also puts up super-informative displays about resident and transient whale pods that will captivate curious young minds.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables dotted along the rocks while waiting for wildlife to appear, and don’t miss the self-guided interpretive trail that reveals the history of the old lime kiln that gave the park its name. With restrooms available and easy walking paths, this park offers the perfect combination of education and excitement that will have children talking about their whale-watching adventure long after your island vacation ends.
The John S. McMillin Mausoleum
We have a whole blog about the history and tips for exploring the John S. McMillin Mausoleum in Roche Harbor, but what we didn’t say specifically in that blog is that it’s also a great place to take kids!
Littles will love the adventure of finding Afterglow Vista, which, in addition to being called the John S. McMillan Mausoleum, is also known as the McMillin Memorial Mausoleum. Your journey begins on an easy woodland trail through the Roche Harbor Cemetary, which is conveniently right across the street from the San Juan Island Sculpure Park (another great place to take kids—more on that below).
At the end of your short, mostly flat hike awaits an incredible surprise: a massive stone structure with huge columns surrounding a round table with stone chairs. Children can count the special stairways (built in sets of three, five, and seven), explore the circular limestone table, and imagine what it would be like to have a magical meeting in this open-air magical room. The entire experience feels like discovering ancient ruins, and since it’s often quiet and uncrowded (especially during the Quiet Season), kids can explore freely. There’s also historical signage right as you enter the mausoleum that little history buffs love.
Don’t forget to bring flashlights or headlamps if you’re visiting near sunset for an extra touch of adventure, and pro tip: Come in October to see the Mausoleum all spooked up for Halloween.
The San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
Just a ten-minute drive from Lakedale, near Roche Harbor, the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park offers an outdoor art experience that kids of all ages will enjoy exploring. This 20-acre wonderland showcases more than 150 sculptures along five well-marked trails, creating a perfect blend of nature walk and artistic discovery. Children will go nuts for the variety of whimsical, colorful, and sometimes puzzling creations made by artists from around the world.
What makes this park particularly family-friendly is the freedom for kids to move at their own pace, pointing out their favorite pieces as they navigate the natural setting. The park’s pond adds another element of exploration, where younger visitors might spot local wildlife while taking a break from art appreciation. Pack snacks if you need to re-up blood sugar while you’re out, and don’t forget your camera—many of the sculptures make for perfect photo opportunities for family memories.
For a small donation, this always-changing outdoor gallery delivers big entertainment value. Since sculptures are frequently rotated and sold, returning visitors will discover something new each visit—making it a perfect activity for both first-time island guests and regular San Juan vacationers.
The San Juan Island Library
In the heart of Friday Harbor, the San Juan Island Library offers a perfect indoor retreat for families, especially when island weather turns unpredictable. This community treasure serves the island’s 7,000 residents with an impressive collection that includes plenty of options for young readers of all ages. With over 47,000 books, including a well-curated children’s section, plus 3,300 videos and numerous children’s magazines, kids can discover new stories or reconnect with familiar favorites.
The library’s welcoming and colorful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for families to spend an afternoon. Children can browse through picture books, listen in on occasional storytime events, or find a quiet corner to read about island history and wildlife before their next outdoor adventure. For tech-savvy kids, the library offers computer access and online resources that can help them learn more about the unique ecosystem they’re visiting.
What makes this library special isn’t just its impressive collection (San Juan ranks among the top five libraries in Washington for per capita circulation!) but its location in one of the most beautiful settings in the Pacific Northwest. After perusing books, take advantage of the library’s proximity to Friday Harbor’s other family-friendly attractions for a full day of island exploration.
The Family Playground and Skate Park at the Fairgrounds
For families who want some good old-fashioned playtime while you’re out and about on the island, the San Juan County Fairgrounds offers a perfect pairing of recreation options that will thrill kids of different ages and interests. Located on Argyle Avenue, the Family Park & Playground and San Juan Island Skate Park offer complementary experiences that make for an easy half-day outing.
The Family Park & Playground is specifically designed for children ages 2-12, with playground equipment that encourages active play and imagination. Parents will appreciate the covered shelter featuring two picnic tables and a barbecue—perfect for preparing lunch while keeping an eye on the littles. Pack some sandwiches and snacks (we suggest Bakery San Juan, King’s Market, or The Market Chef) to enjoy in this community hub where island families and visitors mingle from 8:00 a.m. until dusk.
Right next door, older children and teens can test their skills at the San Juan Island Skate Park, a fun venue for skateboarding and biking enthusiasts. While helmets and pads are recommended (and we strongly encourage them!), this supervised-by-you space gives kids the freedom to practice tricks and builds confidence in a dedicated environment. The proximity of both recreation areas means families with children of different ages can split time between the two spaces, ensuring everyone finds their preferred form of entertainment.
And, Of Course, Lakedale!
One of the best things about Lakedale is it’s fun for the whole family—all year. Whether you cozy up with a movie from our DVD library located in the Lodge, challenge your loved ones to one of the dozens of board games we have onsite, or take a cruiser bike out for a spin around the property, there are endless ways to enjoy each other at Lakedale. It’s one of our points of pride, honestly, and it’s why our guests return year after year.
Show us where your kid-driven island adventures take you! Tag us in your social media posts (we’re @lakedaleresort on Instagram and Facebook) so we can send hearts to you and all your fun.