How do I access San Juan County?

San Juan County is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at San Juan County?

San Juan County supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at San Juan County?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit San Juan County?

The best time to paddle at San Juan County is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at San Juan County?

Water conditions at San Juan County include sheltered, tidal.

Is San Juan County good for beginners?

Yes, San Juan County is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

man riding kayak on water taken at sunset

Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

San Juan County

Friday Harbor, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

San Juan County is a public boat ramp on Small Pox Bay near Friday Harbor, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

San Juan County offers bay paddling on Small Pox Bay in Washington. Located near Friday Harbor.

Bay paddlers in Washington use San Juan County to access Small Pox Bay, where calmer waters and wildlife viewing combine.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

Water conditions are generally sheltered and tidal. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Friday Harbor takes about 5 min, putting San Juan County within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make San Juan County ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access San Juan County?: San Juan County is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at San Juan County?: San Juan County supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at San Juan County?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit San Juan County?: The best time to paddle at San Juan County is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at San Juan County?: Water conditions at San Juan County include sheltered, tidal.
Is San Juan County good for beginners?: Yes, San Juan County is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.5416, -123.1601