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With the exception of Lopez Island, which has just a handful of rather homey inns, accommodations in the San Juans can be quite plush. Rosario Resort & Spa on Orcas Island and Roche Harbor Resort on San Juan Island are favorite spots for special-occasion splurges, and both islands have seen an influx of either new or luxuriously updated inns in recent years. These places often have perks like lavish breakfasts and on-site outfitters and tour operators.
The family-friendly Doe Bay Resort has definite hippie roots, and some of that vibe remains intact—its large communal hot tubs overlooking a lovely little bay are still clothing optional—but the current owners have restored the charming rustic cabins that dot the 38-acre waterfront resort, all of which are clean and comfortable. The treehouse, boasting a lofted bed and an indoor bathroom with a window that hugs a tree trunk, is the hardest to snag during summer.
This old-school cabin compound with a dazzling beachfront location on the island's northwest shore, just a 10-minute drive from Eastsound, can be a good value for families and groups of friends, especially in the shoulder season—most of these compact, rustic cabins sleep four to six guests, and all have kitchens. The furnishings are fairly basic, although the owners continue to make upgrades; if you're seeking a few more creature comforts, request one of the deluxe suites, with large deck and more room to kick around. Amenities include a convenience store and espresso bar with a good selection of groceries, beer, wine, and Lopez Island Creamery ice cream; boat rentals; and a full-service marina. There's RV and tent camping at the resort, as well as a handful of tent cabins.
