Friday Harbor takes on a theme park type atmosphere during the summer with the influx of tourists visiting the island for its wide variey of things to see and do.  Many shops and business close immediately after Labor Day and do not re-open until the season re-opens again in May.

The number of residents shrink substantially during the winter which is when the the community really comes alive. That guy at the Post Office or the waitress at your favorite restaurant are now the folks you see singing and acting at the community theater with amazing talent.  Do not miss the opportunity to see a concert or play here if you can as this theater is a real jewel. 

The Port of Friday Harbor is a State run facility that institutes a zero turn away policy. There is a large Customs Dock which accommodates returning boat and float plane traffic from Canada.  Moorage rates change dramatically from summer to winter as do all the harbors in Washington. The harbor staff is amazing and there are plenty of clean shower and washroom facilities. Unfortunately, during our stay, the only laundromat available in town was a "Wash n' Fold" with pick up and drop off service.

All amenities are within easy walking distance of the harbor but be prepared for an uphill trek.  There is a West Marine Express here if you need any last minute items for your boat before cruising the San Juan Islands or heading North to Alaska.

We used Friday Harbor as our Winter base from which we were able to visit many wonderful anchorages and harbors nearby. Chuck made a video the summer we were here which gives some insight as to how busy the port gets during the summer.