4 Best Hotels in San Juan Island, The San Juan Islands

There's a pretty striking contrast of accommodation styles at this cosmopolitan complex that tumbles down a hillside overlooking Friday Harbor, from intimate Euro-style rooms that lack exterior windows to expansive suites with water views to ginormous bi-level penthouses with two bedrooms, private decks, gorgeous full kitchens, and astounding views. Amenities include Blu-ray players, posh Malin + Goetz bath products, and satellite TV.

This 82-acre property may not have invented glamping, but it was one of the first to nail the travel trend, and the resort's hip 450-square-foot yurts—which share a private lakefront beach and firepit—are as luxurious as they come, with fireplaces, kitchenettes, spacious bathrooms, and private decks with hot tubs. Other options include real log cabins, a lake house, and the handsome lodge, which sits on a scenic lake frequented by swans and geese. There's also a campground for tent and RV camping and some canvas tents for a rustic stay.

This sprawling resort, with several types of accommodations ranging from historic hotel rooms to luxurious contemporary waterfront suites, occupies the site of the lime works that made John S. McMillin his fortune in the late 19th century. Rooms in historic Hotel de Haro are filled with notable antiques, like the claw-foot tub where actor John Wayne used to soak. Posh suites in the McMillin House and Quarryman Hall have fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, and panoramic water views from a private veranda. The beachside Company Town Cottages, once the homes of lime-company employees, have rustic exteriors but modern interiors. Elsewhere are contemporary condos with fireplaces; some have lofts and water views. Walking trails thread through the resplendent gardens and the old lime quarries, an elegant spa offers a full slate of treatments, and several atmospheric restaurants serve food at a range of price points.

The charming lodging options here range from affordable, compact rooms with private baths down the hall, to downright cushy two-bedroom suites with gas fireplaces, spacious sitting rooms, pitched ceilings, and terrific harbor views. Whatever room you choose, you're treated to great service, beds with fine linens, free use of bicycles, and in-room coffee makers. The hotel's sister property, the Earthbox Inn & Spa, is also downtown and well recommended.