Planning a trip to Washington’s own islands but don’t know which one to go to or where to stay? Rest assured, I’ve done the legwork to find the best Vrbo & Airbnb San Juan Islands rentals! From cute cabins and romantic cottages to luxury vacation rentals, you’ll find what you’re looking for here!
Leafy hamlets, winding lanes, and dispersed towns … in Washington State? Where the heck are you? Probably on one of the charming islands of San Juan. It might not be your typical island retreat; however, this scenic escape features an abundance of stunning beaches, orca pods, and orchards.
On the lookout for the perfect whale watching spot? Lime Kiln Point State Park is perfect. Set yourself up for a lifetime supply of fragrance at the Pelindaba Lavender Farm. Looking for festivity? Make your way to Friday Harbor for an array of restaurants, shops, and other fun attractions.
Here you’ll discover a whole new world of serenity and tranquility, with a long list of new adventures awaiting you.
Vrbo & Airbnb San Juan Islands: The Best Vacation Rentals
In a hurry? Or better yet, you have a good idea of where you’re going and what you’re looking for? Take a look at my top picks for San Juan Islands vacation rentals.
- Best Orcas Island Vacation Rental – Beautiful Orcas Island Waterfront Home with Spectacular Views & Wildlife
- Best San Juan Islands Cabin Rental – Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! – (Elephant House)
- Best Friday Harbor Vacation Rental – Spectacular San Juan Island Waterfront Retreat
- Best San Juan island Rental for Groups – Beautiful views, wood stove, private deck!
- Best Beach Vacation Rental on San Juan Islands – Lopez Island, Raven Rock #318
Throughout this post, you’ll find an array of inspiring videos on the San Juan Islands for you to check out and get pumped for your spectacular vacation. Oh, and while you’re checking out these incredible islands in Washington, you may want to take a squizz through some of the best Washington Glamping hotspots, as well as my favorite Airbnb Seattle rentals!
Where to Find the Best San Juan Islands Rentals
The San Juan Islands form part of 172 islands and islets that are nestled between Vancouver Island and the mouth of Puget Sound in the northwest state of Washington. There are no bridges connecting the islands. To get there, you’d need to charter a plane or go by ferry.
The four remote, ferry-served, main islands off the coast of Washington State are where you’ll want to direct yourselves to. Let’s take a look at which ones best suit you.
- San Juan Island: The most recognized, ‘busiest’ of the islands, is home to the popular Friday Harbor. Along the shoreline, you’ll be able to find Lime Kiln State Park, also known as Whale Watch Park, as you’ll have high chances of spotting Orcas from land or boat. You’ll also find great hiking trails in the park.
- Orcas Island: Larger and more secluded than San Juan Island, there are plenty of Airbnb Orcas Island options. You’ll find remote villages, such as Eastsound, Deer Harbor, xd2eaaeand Olga, each offering a handful of shops, cafes, and restaurants. You’ll also find the Moran State Park, boasting 30 miles of hiking trails with challenging terrain.
- Lopez Island: Affectionately referred to as ‘Slowpez’ or the ‘friendly isle’. It’s one of the smallest ferry-served islands and also the least populated. It’s the best for open road cycling and provides the perfect opportunity to get some island – chill – time in.
- Shaw Island: The smallest ferry-served island, there’s no restaurants or hotels here. Many travelers stop at Shaw Island to enjoy picnics, walks, and bike rides.
Top 17 San Juan Islands Airbnb Rentals
Once you’ve reached the shimmering shores of the spectacular San Juan Islands, you’ll certainly never want to leave.
So, without further ado, let’s check out the best VRBOs & Airbnbs in San Juan Islands.
1) Beautiful Orcas Island Waterfront Home with Spectacular Views & Wildlife
Best Orcas Island Vacation Rental
Location: Orcas, Eastsound
Price: $400 avg. per night
Sleeps: 6 (3 BR/2 BA)
Orcas Island is chock full of awesome accommodation choices, but I think I’ve found the overall best with this pristine property! Spacious, stylish, and secluded, this breathtaking vacation rental has it all from amazing amenities to over-the-top comfortable bedrooms. You can wake up refreshed and recharged while sipping a coffee and watching the whales from your back deck, explore the quaint cafes and boutiques in town during the day, and pass your evenings watching the sun set over the water, hanging out in the hammock, chilling next to the chiminea, and making use of the full-equipped kitchen or BBQ area. This spot is simply stunning and will be a hit with your family or friend group.
Guest Review: “What an amazing place to spend our first escape from Alaska since the pandemic started! The location is breathtaking and there are plenty of outdoor decks and chairs to sit and watch the boats and wildlife and chase the sun’s movement during the day. The cottage was clean, comfortable, and very well equipped. It was easy for several students to work on their online classes simultaneously while also sitting on a deck enjoying the sound of waves and birds. Communication was fantastic and we appreciated the great suggestions for day trips on the island (particularly the Pottery Shop!) We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and hope to return again in the future!”
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Credit: VRBO
2) Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! – (Elephant House)
Best San Juan Islands Cabin Rental
Location: Roche Harbor, Friday Harbor
Price: $214 avg. per night
Sleeps: 4 (2BR /1 BA)
This unique and cozy retreat is by far the best cabin rental in the San Juan Islands! You can book this rustic-yet-ritzy accommodation without breaking the bank, which may come as surprise given the cabin’s proximity to the port and literal waterfront location. You’ll be living luxuriously amongst the pines with awesome amenities including smart TV and modern kitchen appliances, comfortable common areas, and two cushy king-size bedrooms between the loft and lower level. The Elephant House is ideal for couples, families, and groups alike. You won’t regret renting this wonderful waterfront home!
Guest Review: “This place was AMAZING. Such a beautiful setting to relax. The property (grounds) itself are fantastic and the house was just perfect. Cozy and comfortable. I would recommend to anyone!”
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Credit: VRBO
3) Spectacular San Juan Island Waterfront Retreat
Best Friday Harbor Vacation Rental
Location: Friday Harbor
Price: $263 avg. per night
Sleeps: 6 (2 BR/2 BA)
This stunning home, along with its truly spectacular sunset views, is my pick for the best vacation rental in Friday Harbor! It’s perfectly positioned on a point to allow for pristine views of the water and accompanying sunsets, and is just a short distance away to any shops, restaurants, or similar location you’d want to visit during your stay. However, you’ll be hard pressed to want to leave the property at all! The spacious deck wraps around the entire home and allows for some amazing vistas through the trees to the harbor. You’re nearly certain to see wildlife during your stay, from pods of orcas to bald eagles to woodland creatures closer to deck itself. Should you want to venture out and about and explore, the property is nearby to hiking trails and kayak rental.
Guest Review: “We spent a week at this beautiful home, and everyone loved the private, woodsy location and amenities. The house is very well designed with a central kitchen (fully equipped) and bedrooms off to each side. The sunny living room has breathtaking views of the water. The photos don’t do justice to the location…the deck is just a stone’s throw from the water, and you can see 180 degrees in either direction. We loved watching the kayakers, ferry boats, sail boats, bald eagles, seals, and dolphins. The hardest decision was just figuring out where to sit and put your feet up! We plan on returning next summer as there’s so much to do on the island. And we will certainly stay at this lovely property again.”
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Credit: VRBO
4) Orcas Island Sunset Cottage Retreat w/Ocean Views
Location: Orcas Island
Superhost: Yes
Price: $195+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41822822
Experience spectacular, panoramic views of the surrounding islands in this charming 2-bedroom Orcas Island Airbnb. Located on a secluded rocky hillside, you’ll be immersed in nature. Sit out on your deck, watch the honey-hued sunsets with a glass of wine as you flip some burgers before snuggling up on the sofa to watch a movie.
The cottage provides a full kitchen, a TV and wifi, a woodburning stove, air conditioning, a washer and dryer. It’s a short drive to Deer Harbor and is close to many hiking trails, beaches, markets, and more. It’s a great stay for couples, friends, or families.
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Guest Review: “It was a million dollar view and spotless for a low-key family weekend!”
5) Orcas Island Cabin on the Bluff
Location: Eastsound, Orcas Island
Superhost: Yes
Price: $129+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/16769044
Cute as a button, this quaint, newly remodeled, little cabin in Eastsound will provide you with peace and tranquility on your San Juan Islands getaway. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood on a hillside, this one-bedroom cabin boasts sweeping views of the surrounding islands.
This space provides a satellite TV, heater, and air conditioning. If you’re not in the kitchen whipping up a meal, you’ll certainly be out roasting marshmallows at the fire pit. Sit out on your patio and enjoy the splendors of nature as you watch the sun go down. It’s the perfect cabin rental on the San Juan Islands.
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Guest Review: “Amazing place to stay for our anniversary! Hated to leave after 5 days of peace and tranquility!! Can’t wait to come back again!!”
6) WATERFRONT! HOT TUB!* 15 Acres of Trails! – (Stonecliff)
Location: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
Superhost: No
Price: $396+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/42971862
If you’re looking for oh la luxury, basked in comfort, and amidst tranquility, this beautiful waterfront home is perfect. Boasting remarkable views of the San Juan Channel in each room, you’ll never want to leave. Snuggle on the sofa and read a good book as you listen to the crackles from the detailed river rock fireplace.
If you’re not outside flipping some tasty snacks on the grill, you’ll certainly want to cook up a storm in the beautiful, fully equipped kitchen. Spend some time relaxing in the hot tub or enjoy a glass of wine on the deck overlooking the waters. It’s the perfect space for families and friends to gather around and share incredible San Juan Islands rentals.
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7) Beautiful views, wood stove, private deck!
Best San Juan Island Rental for Groups
Location: Orcas Island
Superhost: No
Price: $221+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/34306158
Gather your friends and family, and head to this stunning 4-bedroom Airbnb Orcas Island rental. Spend your mornings or evenings on the deck overlooking the spectacular West Sound. You’ll be able to watch the whales right from this lovely San Juan Islands cabin.
This stunning home provides all the bells and whistles needed to make your Airbnb San Juan Islands vacation rental a memorable one. Disappear into the sofa, stream your favorite movie, or test your inner chef skills in the full kitchen. What makes it even better is there’s a dishwasher, yay.
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Guest Review: “Gorgeous view and ideally close to the ferry. Very thoughtful amenities, cookware and comforts made the stay exceptional, thank you! We had a great stay and will definitely visit again :)”
8) Lopez Island, Raven Rock #318
Best Beach Vacation Rental on San Juan Islands
Location: Lopez Island
Superhost: Yes
Price: $226+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23202224
Located on one of the smallest islands, this lovely waterfront Airbnb on Lopez Island is tucked away in nature. The beach is just over the grassy lawn at the bluff and provides you with beautiful stretches of sand, perfect for sunny days at the beach.
The lovely home is tastefully decorated to give you a balance of casual island feel and a flavor of vintage furnishings. Cook up a storm in the spacious kitchen featuring high-end appliances before cozying up to the woodstove in the living room. This 3-bedroom home is a perfect getaway destination for groups of families and friends.
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Guest Review: “Very clean, beautiful location. Everything we needed for a relaxing and memorable vacation. We will be back.”
9) New listing! Couples retreat w/ free WiFi – close to marina & park
Location: Eastsound, Orcas Island
Superhost: No
Price: $137+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44665047
Located in the beautiful Deer Harbor, surrounded by 5 acres of apple orchards, this stunning one bedroom studio rental oozes romance and charm. Cuddle up during those frosty nights and enjoy the electric fireplace. Lie back and stream your favorite movie on the flatscreen TV.
On a beautiful day, take a leisurely stroll along the apple orchards or flip some burgers on the BBQ grill. For something different, this stunning Eastsound Airbnb is located near an array of attractions such as Turtleback Mountain Trailheads (North and South), Deer Harbor Inn Restaurant, and plenty of tours.
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10) Orcas Island, Sunset Cove #262
Location: Deer Harbor, Orcas Island
Superhost: No
Price: $233+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24035853
Located on the Westside, in Deer Harbor, this beautiful 3-bedroom waterfront home welcomes sweeping panoramic views overlooking pocket beach and the surrounding islands. The space provides a stunning, fully stocked kitchen with a Viking cooktop, great to whip up delicious meals after building up an appetite.
After dinner, snuggle up on the living room sofa and watch a movie. Put the indoor fireplace on for ambiance. Sit on the large deck and enjoy the views, or spend the day at the beach. It’s the perfect beachy vacation rental for families or groups of friends, and best of all, fur babies are welcome.
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Guest Review: “Everything was wonderful with this stay. We had a great time exploring the island and Eastsound, and coming back to this place. The views were wonderful, the home was gorgeous and amenities like the children’s dinner ware and highchair were perfect. We did a lot of cooking during our stay and really appreciated the kitchen and all of the cookware that was available.”
11) Crane Lane Retreat on Orcas Island
Location: Eastsound
Superhost: Yes
Price: $308+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33021197
With an open plan living space, incredible views of the Westsound, and the perfect blend between nature and tranquility, what’s not to love about this stunning retreat?
Sit out on the patio and watch the stunning sunset, or turn some burgers on the grill. If you’re looking to test your culinary skills out for the family, the large open space kitchen is perfect. And even better, there’s a dishwasher and dryer available. After a day full of activities, laze in the livingroom and tune into your favorite program. It’s the perfect space to gather friends and family around.
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Guest Review: “This is such a sweet spot!! Definitely a big bigger than we thought AND so private. Well appointed kitchen (we could have used more wine glasses but that is a consummate problem). Hosts were so communicative. We had decent cell service (1 bar with AT&T) but were fine because WIFI worked great. Deer joined us in the evening on property. Beautiful sunsets and close to ferry landing!”
12) Cabin at Juniper Lane Guest House
Location: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $60+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6622047
If you’re looking for a Friday Harbor vacation rental, this may just tick all the bells and whistles on your list. It’s the quintessential northwest log cabin, located 1.3 miles from the ferry terminal.
The 2-bedroom cabin is entirely constructed in cedar, giving you a comfortable and cozy stay. Cook up a storm in the full kitchen before heading to the deck to enjoy a glass of wine and watch the sunset go down. Spend a lazy morning on the hammock, before heading out for the day. It’s the perfect retreat for families, couples, or friends.
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Guest Review: “A BEAUTIFUL retreat that gives the feel of living in the countryside, yet is still super close to downtown Friday Harbor!”
13) Serenity Overlook Cottage
Location: Orcas Island
Superhost: Yes
Price: $111+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6055640/
Serenity Overlook is a charming, quaint seaside cottage nestled on Orcas Island. Sip on a cup of coffee in the morning and watch the Ferris come and go on the waterfront deck.
The one-bedroom space provides a comfortable bed, a TV and wifi, air conditioning, and the cooking basics. This cottage is in the perfect location, close to all the amenities you’d need to make your island getaway a memorable one. It’s ideal for solo travelers and couples looking to spend time on a stunning island.
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Guest Review: “Great place for a weekend getaway with incredible views. Rebecca was timely, communicative and we can’t wait
14) New Listing! Charming Cabin w/hot tub, near Everything in Deer Harbor – Dogs OK!
Location: Eastsound, Orcas Island
Superhost: No
Price: $150+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43998381
Relax and enjoy your time on Orcas Island in the lovely little cottage near Deer Harbor. The space provides handmade log furnishings. Sip on a steamy cup of joe in the morning on the deck and enjoy sweeping views of the Olympic Peninsula, lagoon, and harbor. Listen out for the soaring eagle’s cry.
The cottage provides wifi and a TV, a kitchenette, a hot tub, and other essentials. Light the indoor fireplace and enjoy the splendors of nature in this delightful cabin. Best of all, you can bring your pooch with, making it the perfect getaway for the ‘whole’ family.
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Guest Review: “This was a perfect spot to explore Orcas Island. The location was great with ocean views and lots of visiting deer in the evening.”
15) 1940’s Orcas Waterfront Cottage
Location: Dear Harbor, Orcas Island
Superhost: Yes
Price: $230+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/11282697
Steeped in history, this stunning 1940’s 1-bedroom cottage is the perfect space for families, couples, and solo travelers to enjoy an island getaway. Situated right at the water’s edge near Deer harbor, the property boasts panoramic views of Shaw Island, Pole Pass, Crane Island, and Bell Island.
Lie back on the large sun-porch chairs and enjoy the views as you sip on a cold beverage or get some snacks going on the BBQ. After a day of exploring, you’ll be welcomed by a comfortable sofa awaiting a movie night. If you’re not ready to retire, test your culinary skills in the beautiful kitchen. This charming cottage is simply adorable.
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Guest Review: “Beautifully quaint home in a magical setting. Amazingly well worth the ferry ride and drive. We had a wonderful time!”
16) Deer Harbor, WA, Studio Deluxe Cottage Z #1
Location: Deer Harbor, Orcas Island
Superhost: No
Price: $243+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/11626310
This beautiful studio cottage located in Deer Harbor is an absolute steal. Enjoy sunsets in your own private hot tub on the deck, or before cozying up to the fireplace to watch some TV. This space oozes romance and charm.
When you’re not indoors loving the peaceful space, you’ll undoubtedly be out and about enjoying the resort amenities, such as the swimming pool, fitness center, or BBQ area. Here you’ll find plenty of local attractions from fishing, bike rentals, hiking, whale-watching excursions, etc.
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Guest Review: “We loved our time in the cottage. Can’t beat a hot tub on the deck overlooking Deer Harbor. It was very quiet around the Island and even quieter in Deer Harbor, so we felt very private and relaxed in our space. Thanks Jan!”
17) Stunning Waterfront Home w/ Seasonal Hot Tub – Perfect for a Relaxing Getaway
Location: Lopez Island
Superhost: No
Price: $198+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21123775
Gather your friends and family around and stay at this stunning Lopez Island 3-bedroom home, located near some of the isle’s top attractions. Step out onto the deck to marvel at incredible views on your island getaway.
The space provides a bright and airy living area, with plenty of oceanfront views. Sit around the gas fireplace to warm up or laze out watching your favorite TV program inside. The kitchen is fully stocked and ready for you to cook away. It’s the perfect space to spend a holiday in the sun.
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Guest Review: “Location was beautiful, be sure to travel here in spring and summer only when the shops are open!”
Best Airbnb Experiences in the San Juan Islands
During your stay on one of the islands, you’ll definitely want to get out and explore the surrounding area and other neighboring islands. So, I’ve included some of the best tours and day trips around the Islands that you won’t want to miss out on.
Zen and the Art of Sailing
“Join me, Captain Jon for a day of exploration in the San Juan Islands through Rosario Strait and James Island! We will board a vintage 28 foot sloop in Anacortes and set sail for James Island. Learn to sail, share stories, talk philosophy or simply sit back and enjoy the 1-3 hour crossing of Rosario Strait.”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/911501
Price: $300+ USD
Orcas Island Afternoon Yacht Cruise
“Welcome Aboard! Our 3:00 PM, two hour “happy hour” cruise will meet and depart from West Sound Marina, aboard a truly majestic vessel the “High Seas”. After a short reception and briefing from the Captain, we will proceed Southwest through historic Pole Pass on our way to the President Channel. Sit back, relax and listen to the music of your choice as we cruise along the West side of Orcas Island, where you and your guests will experience a truly magical journey along the beautiful island waterways.”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/1422452
Price: $99+ USD
Kayak the San Juan Islands – Day Trip
“Kayak in prime whale and wildlife habitat along the Haro Strait, bordering the west side of San Juan Island and Vancouver Island. Traverse the waters of migrating salmon and keep your eyes peeled for eagles, seals, porpoises, and other wildlife that follow our keystone species of the Pacific Northwest. Your guide will prepare lunch as you look out on the Olympic Mountains and explore the driftwood beaches of Lime Kiln State Park.”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/168160
Price: $125+ USD
Am I Missing Any Amazing San Juan Islands Airbnb Rentals?
So there you have it, the very best Airbnbs San Juan Islands have to offer. Though these were the very best, I couldn’t include all of them; you’d be reading forever. If you feel I’ve missed any amazing Airbnb, please share; I’d love to hear about them.
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Final Thoughts on San Juan Islands Rentals
From whale watching excursions, an abundance of outdoor activities – like hiking, kayaking, fishing, sailing, and wildlife, what’s not to see here?
Spend evenings relaxing outside watching the honey-hued sunsets fade into a bright and shiny night sky. Bring on warm sunshine-filled days and miles of shimmering waters. Surrounded by local wildlife, it’s the ideal Northwest island getaway experience.
What’s your favorite San Juan Island? Please share, I’d love to know.
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