One of my favorite seasons to visit Washington's San Juan Islands is winter -- simply because you'll have the place to yourself. Even some of the locals have fled, flying away to warmer climes. Last February my hubby and I spent my birthday on San Juan Island. It was also Super Bowl weekend, and the weather was clear, cool and sunny and included both a spectacular sunrise and sunset.
We booked a Penthouse at The Island Inn, a wonderful new property in Friday Harbor overlooking the water and featuring plush Eurostyle guest rooms. After taking a Sunday morning ferry from Anacortes via Washington State Ferries (the sailing is about an hour), we parked our car at the inn and went across the street to Downriggers Restaurant for Bloody Mary's and a late breakfast.
The weather was so ideal we headed out for the afternoon, stopping at Lime Kiln Point State Park (aka Whale Watch Park); exploring Roche Harbor Resort & Marina (nothing was open, either because of the Super Bowl, or closed Sundays in winter); and poked around downtown Friday Harbor. We ended up back at the inn, watched some of the game accompanied by birthday bubbly and smoked salmon, and that evening went across the walkway to The Bluff Restaurant at Friday Harbor House where we enjoyed a wonderful birthday dinner, complete with a celebratory candle at the end.
Since the next day was a Monday, my hubby had to go to work in Seattle, so he opted to travel the speedy way via Kenmore Air from Friday Harbor to Lake Union. I wasn't in a big rush, so hung around Friday Harbor before catching an afternoon ferry back to Anacortes. A perfect overnight birthday getaway ... sunshine included!
The Island Inn Winter Love Packages
12th Man Love | For Seahawks fans | Rates start at $135
- Accommodations for two 12th men or more in a Penthouse, Sweet or Euro
- Seahawks Fans Parking Only sign to mark complimentary garage parking spot
- Blow-up referee punching bag
- Copy of 100 Things Seahawks Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die
- Valid through Feb. 28, 2013
Puppy Love | For dog lovers | Rates start at $189
- Accommodations for two people plus one canine
- Dog bowl and bed for use during your stay
- Puppy treats
- Dog bone int roller to take home
- Valid through March 31, 2013
INN Love | For your favorite Valentine | Rates start at $212
- Two nights for two guests in a Penhouse
- Bottle of bubbly
- Bouquet of fresh flowers
- Complimentary garage parking
- Handmade island truffles
- Valid through March 31, 2013
LOVE Food | For food lovers | Rates start at $199
- One night for two in a Penthouse, Sweet or Euro
- Complimentary garage parking
- $75 dining voucher to a neighboring restaurant
- Heart-shaped Red Velvet cake with custom message
- Valid through Feb. 28, 2013
GO SLOW during the month of February with savings up to 25% off. Valid Feb. 1-28, 2013 (may not be combined with any other discount). Mention or enter GO SLOW when booking.
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