Getting to the San Juan Islands

There are no bridges to or from the San Juan Islands and mainland Washington State.  Travelers to the San Juan Islands arrive by plane or boat.  Most travelers arrive in Seattle (SeaTac International Airport)  or drive through Seattle before coming to the San Juans.  

Arriving in Seattle

If you are flying to Seattle from the Midwest or the East Coast, we strongly recommend that you plan to arrive in Seattle the day before your program begins. Those of you flying from the West Coast should plan to arrive at SeaTac International Airport as early as possible in the morning (recommended arrival time before 10:00am) so that you can take a mid-afternoon ferry to the island. We recommend scheduling outbound flights after 2:00pm (to allow for travel time back to SeaTac International Airport).

Arriving In the Islands by Regional Air Service

From Seattle, you may travel to the San Juan Islands with Kenmore Air.  Kenmore Air flights depart from Boeing Field or by float plane from Lake Union in the downtown area.  Prices subject to change and luggage limits may apply. Complimentary shuttle service to/from SeaTac International Airport is available.  Please ask the airline agent when making your reservation.

Arriving by Airporter Shuttle Bus & WA State Ferry

From SeaTac International Airport, you may arrange for Bellair Airporter shuttle bus service from SeaTac Airport to the Anacortes, WA  State Ferry terminal.  The Bellair Airporter shuttle bus from SeaTac International Airport to the Anacortes, WA ferry terminal is approximately a three hour ride.  For schedule, reservations, and current rate information visit the Airporter website.

Once at the Anacortes ferry terminal, you will purchase a ticket as a "walk-on" passenger.  No reservations are necessary.  For  Washington State Ferry service schedule and fare information, visit them on line. Please check with the ferry service to confirm the schedule before leaving on your trip.

Arriving by Car and WA State Ferry

You can reach the San Juan Islands by car via Interstate 5 from Seattle to Anacortes and then by Washington State Ferry to Friday Harbor. For Washington State Ferry service schedule and fare information, go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries. Please check with the ferry service to confirm the schedule before leaving on your trip.  There are no reservations for the ferry.  It is recommended to arrive at the ferry terminal 1.5 hours to 2 hours prior to sailing time if you plan on taking your car on the ferry.

Driving Directions To the Anacortes Ferry Terminal
It takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive from SeaTac Airport to the San Juan Ferry Terminal).

From Seattle
Drive north on I-5, about 60 miles to Burlington/Mt. Vernon. Turn west (exit 230) onto Highway 20 and continue another 20 miles west to Anacortes. Follow the signs to the San Juan Ferry Terminal (3 miles west of Anacortes).

From Bellingham
Drive south on I-5. Turn west (exit 230) onto Highway 20. Follow the signs to the San Juan Ferry Terminal (3 miles west of Anacortes).