ANCHORS AWEIGH: VISITING ROCHE HARBOR, WASHINGTON, BY PRIVATE BOAT
By Linda Kissam “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva”
The San Juan Islands have many exceptional places for boaters to visit. One of my favorites is Roche Harbor. This charming port of call is a highlight of our summer cruise, featuring a hardworking dock crew and a charming town with upscale amenities. The town’s compact size features a wealth of attractions, including lovely indoor and outdoor shops, a sophisticated supermarket, and numerous restaurants. I am particularly fond of the picturesque gardens scattered throughout, which conjure up the renowned Victoria gardens in BC.
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Travel writer Linda Kissam talks about her summer boating lifestyle and the highlights of Roche Harbor, Washington. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
Of the many things visitors could do, here are my favorites:
Roche Harbor Resort: If you need accommodations, this historic resort, offering beautiful accommodations, dining options, and spa services, is a good option. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the picturesque views. The spa is fantastic…just saying. There are also several other nearby lodging options.
The Outdoor Sculpture Park: Stroll through this lovely park featuring an array of unique sculptures set against the backdrop of the harbor. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk and taking photos. Keep in mind, this is a natural setting. Wear flat shoes. Wear long pants to keep the biting insects off your legs. Mosquitoes and, to a lesser extent, biting flies may be present, especially in the evenings.
Historic Roche Harbor Community: Explore the charming village, rich in history, where you can find the old lime kilns, historic buildings, and informative plaques detailing the area’s past. There is a great market and indoor and outdoor shopping.
Kayaking and Paddle Boarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters of Roche Harbor and enjoy a close-up view of the marine life and coastal scenery.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: This historic church, established in the late 19th century, is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque setting. It serves as a working religious center, offering services and various community events and serving as a wedding venue, throughout the year. Visitors are welcome to attend services, and the church also provides a peaceful space for reflection and contemplation in the nearby gardens. The church bells typically ring out at specific times throughout the day. Generally, you can expect the bells to chime at 9 am, noon and 5 pm.
Fishing and Crabbing: Bring your fishing gear or participate in local charters to experience sport fishing or crabbing in the rich waters surrounding Roche Harbor. Even boaters use this option as the locals know where all the good fishing is nearby.
The Gardens: Planted in the early 1900s, the gardens are a stunning blend of natural beauty and meticulous landscaping, offering visitors a serene escape amidst vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and breathtaking waterfront views. Nestled along the picturesque harbor, these gardens feature a variety of native plants and seasonal blooms that create a colorful tapestry throughout the year. The peaceful pathways invite leisurely strolls, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Over the years, various caretakers and community members have contributed to the cultivation and expansion of these gardens, introducing diverse plant species and landscaping styles. The gardens are a cherished part of Roche Harbor’s heritage.
San Juan Island National Historical Park: Just a short distance away, this park offers stunning landscapes, historical sites, and walking trails that delve into significant events from the region’s past.
Dining & Shopping: Enjoy delicious meals from waterfront view restaurants. My favorites are the Madrona Bar & Grill ($$$) and the Lime Kiln Café (family café, no alcohol served, dynamo breakfast). Both are known for their fresh seafood and engaging atmospheres. Make sure you buy an espresso and a Famous Cake Donut – handmade every morning – at the Beech Tree Espresso stand located in the Artist Village. Lots of diva-worthy shopping in this main area of the tourist village.
Colors Ceremony: The Colors ceremony is a beautiful and patriotic tradition that takes place next to the waterfront every evening during the summer months. It typically occurs at sunset. It’s a touching and scenic experience, making it a memorable part of visiting Roche Harbor. Here’s what you can expect during the ceremony:
– Flag Lowering: The ceremony involves the lowering of the American flag, accompanied by the national anthem and other ceremonial music. Participants gather at the marina or waterfront area to witness this respectful homage.
– Sunset Views: The Colors ceremony takes place as the sun goes down, providing a stunning backdrop of vibrant colors over the harbor and landscape, adding to the overall beauty of the experience.
– Anticipate the ending of the ceremony, a cannon is fired and the boats in the harbor blow their horns in salute. It’s quite a bit deal. The first time I heard it, I was in the lower cabin of our boat, folding laundry. I thought there had been a crash in the harbor, so I ran upstairs. My dog hid in an open closet.
As my visit to Roche Harbor came to a close, I reflect on the stunning waterfront views and vibrant art installations at the Sculpture Park to the heartfelt Colors ceremony that wraps up each day in a sense of community and patriotism. Roche Harbor leaves a lasting impression on me. My days exploring the natural wonders, indulging in local cuisine, and sitting back on our boat to simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere are welcome. The memories created here stay with me long after I depart.
As I leave, I carry with me the spirit of Roche Harbor—a place where nature, art, and tradition intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Safe travels y’all and may your next adventure be just as enriching!
Linda Kissam ‘Food, Wine & Shopping Diva’ is a professional travel, food, and wine writer based out of Arizona and the Pacific Northwest, who specializes in easy, breezy destination stories sharing her favorite things about the places she visits. Visit www.AllInGoodTaste.info.
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