If your dog could talk, we’re pretty sure he’d tell you to bring him to the San Juan Islands. Luckily for the best boy (or girl) in your life, our archipelago offers no shortage of amazing adventures for a dog-gone good time.
Throw Fido a bone and check out our recommendations for a paw-sitively perfect San Juan Islands dog-friendly getaway!
Lopez Island
At just 30 square miles, Lopez Island is a dream destination in our neck of the woods that offers visitors a friendly, laid-back change of pace. But while the island is often lovingly referred to as “Slo-pez,” don’t let that stop you and your pup from having a ball.
Things to Do
A pair of parks—Spencer Spit State Park and Upright Channel State Park—give you plenty of Pacific Northwest scenic beauty to soak in (and sniff) together. From hiking trails and beach access to crabbing, clamming, fishing, and more, there’s an abundance of tail-wagging adventures to be had.
Restaurants
When it comes to dining, a handful of dog-friendly restaurants call Lopez Island home. At the Islander Bar and Grill, you can pull up a chair on the outdoor patio and savor fresh seafood while your pooch relaxes by your side. Dogs are also welcome to dine al fresco with you at Vortex—although they need to remain outside while you order in the restaurant.
Paw tip: No matter where you’re looking to nosh, call ahead to confirm the restaurant’s dog policies.
Places to Stay
For a comfy stay, the Lopez Islander Resort is a popular choice for humans and their four-legged friends. If snoozing underneath the stars is more your style, Spencer Spit State Park welcomes vacationers in private campsites, beachside sites, and group camps.
Orcas Island
The largest of the San Juan Islands, Orcas Island features 57 square miles of breathtaking (and diverse) scenery. There are a lot of Fido-friendly activities on Orcas—more than we have time to list here—so consider these our top tips for an excursion you won’t forget.
Things to Do
Kickstart your day with a trip to Moran State Park, a 5,000-acre recreation area that boasts five freshwater lakes, 150 campsites, and 38 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Moran is also home to Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands (yes, all of them!) that offers up some seriously incredible views. After trekking through the nearly eight-mile Mount Constitution Loop Trail, an afternoon nap for you and your best pal never sounded so good.
Restaurants
Dining on Orcas Island is a treat, with several restaurants that welcome dogs and their well-behaved owners. Olga Rising is one of our favorite breakfast and lunch spots—and if you stop in, do yourself a solid by ordering their *chef’s kiss* classic egg sandwiches. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with Island Pie, a pet-friendly pizzeria in Deer Harbor that’s too good to miss. And if wetting your whistle tops your Orcas to-do list, swing by Orcas Island Winery and Island Hoppin’ Brewery to sip the day away.
Places to Stay
A host of dog-friendly options make Orcas Island a perfect place for you and your trusty sidekick to call it a night. The iconic Orcas Hotel, which has been welcoming travelers since 1904, has pet-friendly rooms with beautiful views and easy access to trails and parks. For a more rustic experience, consider staying at Doe Bay Resort & Retreat—just make sure you register your canine companion in advance.
San Juan Island
Hopping between the San Juan Islands is a breeze. And while visits to Lopez and Orcas are sure to keep you busy, don’t forget to leave some room in your itinerary to raise the woof on San Juan Island!
Things to Do
A truly delightful destination for human and canine visitors alike, dog-friendly San Juan Island does not disappoint. Your pup will give two paws up to burning off some energy at Eddie and Friends Dog Park or Pup Town Dog Park (both located in picturesque Friday Harbor). There’s also a plethora of sights to see, including Lime Kiln Point State Park—our top spot for whale watching. But to really get your engine revving, buckle up in a Scoot Coupe from Susie’s Mopeds. A scenic drive with your dog riding shotgun? Sounds like heaven to us.
Restaurants
San Juan Island is a mecca for fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Topping our fido-friendly dining list: Friday’s Crabhouse, where you and your dog can enjoy prime patio seating while working your way through a mouthwateringly good menu. The Market Chef is another eatery that welcomes dogs outdoors, and a stop at Medio Cafe can take your morning from ho-hum to yum-yum.
Places to Stay
That’s where we come in! Lakedale Resort’s pet-friendly options ensure a comfortable stay for you and your pooch. Dogs are welcome in our Log Cabins and the Lake House all year, and in the summer, our campground provides the perfect place for you and your pup to relax. In the quiet season—between October and May—pets go crazy for “Leash-Free Lakedale” where they can roam to their heart’s content.
With house-made dog treats and plenty of adventures to be had, Lakedale is the perfect base for exploring the island with your pup—no matter when you plan to visit! Be the best fur-end you can be and book your stay online or call 800-617-2267 to reserve a dog-friendly spot.
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Wondering what makes the San Juan Islands dog friendly? Check out our curated list of things to do, restaurants to try, and places to stay throughout the archipelago. Trust us: Your canine companion will thank you later!
