There are several options for getting to the islands. The point of departure, for most travelers, will be Seattle. Travelers arriving from other points can skip to the section below on arriving in the islands by car.

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 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.

Arriving In the Islands by Regional Air Service

You can fly with Kenmore Air, they leave from Boeing Field or by float plane from Lake Union in the downtown area. Luggage limits may apply. Please ask your airline when making your reservation.

Arriving by Airporter Shuttle Bus & WA State Ferry

An airport shuttle bus will pick you up at Seatac Airport and transport you to the Anacortes ferry landing to take the ferry to the islands.    The shuttle bus from Seattle airport to the Anacortes 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 Juans 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.

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).