July 12, 2024 / Elopement Pacific Northwest Washington
A San Juan Islands Elopement Guide
A San Juan Islands Elopement Guide | In The Alpenglow
There’s nothing quite like an island wedding. The seclusion and wild natural beauty you’ll find just off the coast is unmatched and often guarantees the perfect amount of romance and adventure. Which is why I immediately recommend a San Juan Islands elopement to any couple that comes to me for advice about the Pacific Northwest!
Washington state obviously (as you can tell from a quick perusal of my blog or any social media content haha) has countless beautiful areas to exchange vows, but there’s something uniquely magic about the San Juans. Located off the northwest coast of the state, they’ll take your breath away with their acres and acres of lush forests, serene beaches, and the sweetest coastal towns with sweeping views of the Salish Sea.
And despite feeling remote and private, the islands are super accessible and are an easy day trip for you and your closest friends and family. Also…the endless fresh seafood and local farm delicacies + quaint venues for both lodging (and your ceremony) = a dream combination.
I hope this guide on how to plan your San Juan Islands elopement makes the process feel easy and exciting, and that you’ll soon share my love and admiration for this beautiful corner of the world! Read on for more details on each island, the best time to visit, and my favorite spots to stay:
The Islands
San Juan Island
The “big island” of the San Juans! This one is a favorite for good reason. Its main hub is Friday Harbor, which is the quintessential island town. You’ll find tons of shops with local goods, amazing restaurants, and art galleries. For an elopement, I’d recommend either Lime Kilm Point State Park, and the San Juan Island National Historical Park. And if you’re wanting to experience the wildlife, Lime Kiln Point State Park is also perfect for some whale watching. If you choose this island for an elopement, you’ll have plenty of charm, beautiful outdoor spaces, picturesque harbors, and a vibrant arts community to explore.
Orcas Island
Orcas Island is famous for its natural beauty and incredible artisan goods sold throughout Washington state and beyond. There are lots of local farms serving delicious restaurants, which are mostly found in Eastsound — the central village on the island. This is a great island for the adventurer, as it’s the largest of the islands (tons of hiking trails) and renowned for its natural beauty. I highly recommend checking out Moran State Park — especially Mount Constitution with its panoramic views — for an elopement. Another great option would be Turtleback Mountain Preserve.
Lopez Island
Lopez Island is the ideal spot for the more laid-back, island vibe couple. It’s a less touristy option than Orcas or San Juan Island, but with a great town — Lopez Village — featuring a marina, great shops, and sweet cafes. It’s also known for its scenic bike routs, rugged shorelines, and farmland. I’d recommend checking out Shark Reef Park, the Lopez Island Historical Museum, and Lopez Island Vineyards (great spot for an elopement!).
Shaw Island
This is the smallest of the four ferry-served islands, but still a great option for a peaceful, idyllic elopement setting. It’s known for its more pastoral landscapes, and you’ll be able to explore without the crowds of the more popular islands. I highly recommend Shaw Island County Park for exchanging vows!
Other Islands (Non-Ferry Served):
Lummi Island: This one is magical and worth the trip. It’s known for a vibrant artists’ community, beautiful scenery, and the iconic Willows Inn.
Decatur Island: Another quiet and peaceful island, its only accessible by boat or plane — but will take your breath away with its natural beauty and scenic views.
Truly, you can’t go wrong with any of these islands. They each have their own unique character and appeal, from vibrant communities with cultural attractions to secluded natural landscapes perfect for relaxing and exploring the outdoors. You can always check out a few of the islands to really experience the full breadth of PNW island life. Each of these islands offers a distinct character and appeal, ranging from vibrant communities with cultural attractions to secluded natural landscapes perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. I love that the San Juans give you a chance to rest in tranquil spaces and experience some adventure.
NOTE: Make sure to look into permits and if there are certain requirements if you plan to get married at a park! It can vary island to island, so do some research before officially booking anything. 🙂
The Best Time of Year for a San Juan Islands Elopement
As any Washingtonian will tell you, summertime is a DREAM. It’s definitely the peak island-hopping season, with temperatures hovering between high 60s and 70s. The days are long with tons of sunlight, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and any fun outings before & after! If you’re hoping to enjoy more adventurous excursions like kayaking, whale watching, hiking, etc., then I’d definitely plan your elopement between June and August.
Another great option is the shoulder seasons, which would include spring (April through May) and fall (September through October). The temperatures range from mid-50s to mid-60s, so still pretty mild. If there is any rain, it tends to fall in the morning and clear by the afternoon/evening — with some pretty incredible sunsets across the water. You’ll also see lots of blooming wildflowers in the spring or fall colors later in the year. These months will be quieter and less touristy, so they’re great if you’re hoping for a more peaceful getaway!
Regardless of the season, you’ll always want to do some research on ferry travel and make sure you’re booking a reservation far in advance — especially during the summer months! Ferries book up fast and you definitely don’t want to be stranded/waiting in long lines on your elopement weekend.
Where To Stay
There are a TON of options throughout the San Juan Islands for an elopement, all very different in terms of style, access to activities, and ability to host a ceremony. Below are a few of the types of accommodation and my recommendations:
Waterfront Resorts and Inns
Many resorts and inns on the San Juan Islands offer waterfront views, private beach access, and luxurious amenities. These are definitely ideal for couples seeking a more romantic setting with stunning views of the Salish Sea and convenient access to outdoor activities like kayaking or beachcombing. A few examples I love are Rosario Resort and Spa, Friday Harbor House on San Juan Island, and Lopez Islander Resort on Lopez Island.
Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts
B&Bs on the islands are the perfect cozy accommodations with personalized service and a very homey atmosphere. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a more intimate and private experience, often with beautiful gardens and quiet settings for an elopement. My faves are Tucker House Inn and Harrison House Suites on San Juan Island, and Kangaroo House Bed & Breakfast on Orcas Island.
Rustic Cabins and Cottages
If you’re wanting a more secluded and rustic setting, cabins and cottages on the islands offer more privacy and a closer connection to nature. These are great for couples who enjoy a simpler and more rustic charm, with tons of options ranging from basic to more upscale cabins. Check out Doe Bay Resort on Orcas Island (cabins and yurts) or Snug Harbor Resort on San Juan Island (cabins and suites).
Historic Inns and Boutique Hotels
Some of the islands boast historic inns or boutique hotels with unique charm, elegant decor, and lots of history. I love recommending them if you’re a couple who appreciates history and character, want more upscale dining options, or are looking for special packages for weddings and elopements. A few options are Outlook Inn, The Orcas Hotel, and The Inn at Ship Bay — all found on Orcas Island.
Finally, there are always great rental locations on the islands! Check out my Airbnb list for more ideas.
When you’re choosing a spot for your elopement, definitely consider factors like proximity to your ceremony location and any amenities that are important to you (like spa services, dining options, or outdoor activities). And perhaps most importantly — the overall atmosphere that most closely aligns with your vision for your big day.
That’s all, friends! I hope this guide was helpful as you plan your elopement. Or that it inspired you to consider the San Juan Islands for your future ceremony! They are a wonderful option for couples who want to feel connected to nature and enjoy the peaceful, laid-back vibe of island life. And if you’re still early on in the planning process and looking for a photographer to help you both plan AND memorialize this significant life moment — I’d love to be that gal. Head to the link below to start a conversation:
