Don’t mistake San Juan Island for Puerto Rico’s capital. The island is brimming with charming harbors, kayak-worthy coves, and lavender fields stretching toward the horizon. On our last trip to the island, though, we found out about a particular budget accommodation that deserves more recognition. We’re talking about the San Juan Island Hostel. It’s not just a place to crash. It’s a vibrant community of budget-minded adventurers who want to have fun and enjoy the island in their own way. While we were there, we would wake up to the scent of fresh pastries from the kitchen and spend our afternoon taking in the views of the picturesque harbor. Sounds fun, right? You can do the same or even more if you spend your nights at this hostel, too. Keep reading, and we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the hostel!
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A stone’s throw from the ferry
For those who want to experience slow living on the Island of San Juan, Friday Harbor may be the answer. This small yet charming town is arguably the best place for travelers who want to have fun at their own pace. From indulging in fresh oysters to strolling the docks, there were so many things we did during our last trip there. And when it comes to budget accommodation, there’s San Juan Island Hostel, which is only a short three-block stroll away from the ferry terminal.
Thanks to the hostel’s convenient location, we didn’t need to wrestle with taxis or lug our luggage uphill. Our island adventure began the moment we set foot on land. Better yet, the hostel sits within easy reach of everything that makes Friday Harbor tick. For the thrill-seekers, whale watching and numerous kayak tour companies are just a short distance away, ready to whisk you out onto the sparkling waters. Since exploring on land was more our style, we took advantage of the bike rentals instead. The convenience doesn’t stop there! During our stay, the friendly folks at the hostel were armed with maps, brochures, and local knowledge to help us craft the perfect itinerary.
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Easy check-in
In case you’re wondering, the check-in time of this hostel is between 2 PM and 6 PM. We checked in at around 2.30 PM, and the overall process was easy. All you need is the usual, which includes a valid ID and a Visa or Mastercard in your name of booking. However, you should plan accordingly, as late arrivals may require a phone call for self-check-in instructions, which can be a hassle.
When we first arrived at the hostel, it was what we expected – a casual hostel vibe with simple accommodations and shared areas. We also loved how the staff clearly communicated their policies regarding check-in, check-out, and other regulations. It helped us avoid any unwanted surprises. Also, you should note that there’s no 24/7 reception here.
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Shared and private rooms
Unlike some hostels in the San Juan Islands, the accommodation options at this hostel are a lot, allowing us to choose based on our needs and budget. There are shared dormitory rooms for the social butterflies who don’t want to spend a lot. In case you’re wondering, there are female-only, male-only, as well as mixed dorms. Bunk up with fellow adventurers in one of the dorms, which feature twin or full mattresses. While we were there, we loved how the shared bathrooms were all conveniently located from the dorm rooms. They made it easy to freshen up after a day of exploration.
In addition to shared dorms, the hostel also offers private bedrooms, which range in size. It’s a nice choice for couples or those who want their own quiet space and a little more solitude. But since we wanted to experience something more social, we didn’t try the private room.
Nevertheless, no matter which room you choose, you’ll have a great time as the hostel has got you covered. From bed linens and blankets to pillows and towels, we didn’t have to pack our own bedding as the hostel provided everything. We also loved the huge lockers! Available in all dorms, each of them is big enough to accommodate most backpacks. However, you should bring your own lock.
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Kitchen conquering made easy
Forget greasy spoons and overpriced burgers. The hostel’s brand-new, fully remodeled kitchen is the place to be for culinary creativity. Our team is no professional chef, but we do love to try to make some magic in the kitchen. During our stay, we would wake up a little earlier just to whip up hearty eggs benedict and avocado toast. Since it was newly renovated, every spot was clean, and we had every appliance we needed.
“We had absolute fun cooking our own meals when we didn’t feel like stepping out!”
WOW Travel
Yes, many cafes and restaurants are nearby, but if you’re on a budget, cooking can help you save a lot. So, instead of spending hundreds of dollars out there, why not make a gourmet feast and share stories with your new friends over hot coffee? We even made sure to pack picnic lunches for our day trip to Lime Kiln State Park. Oh, and if you’re looking for a recipe, there’s free Wi-Fi that blankets the entire hostel, so you don’t have to worry about staying connected.
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Game on!
Unlike resorts, the activities at a hostel can be rather limited. So, if you’re tired of the same old hostel routine, why not escape the dorm and head to the recreation room? It’s arguably the most fun spot on the property, and we would have a blast challenging each other to a pool tournament there. Apart from that, you can also catch up on your favorite shows on the big screen with other globetrotters or simply lounge in the comfy seating and soak up the communal atmosphere. To us, the recreation room was more than just a bonus – it was the heart of the hostel, pumping with fun and friendly vibes.
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Pros
- Multiple room options range from shared dorms to private rooms for all budgets and preferences.
- A newly remodeled kitchen and spotless bathrooms.
- A fun recreation room with a pool table and games.
Cons
- Though not an issue for most, it’s worth noting that there is no air-conditioning in the rooms.
Conclusion
With its convenient location near the ferry terminal and Friday Harbor’s hotspots, San Juan Hostel should be the go-to option for budget-minded adventurers. Whether you’re planning to devour fresh seafood on the waterfront or people-watch from one of the town’s hidden gems, the hostel’s prime location puts you right in the thick of it all. And did I mention the amenities? We’re talking free Wi-Fi, a pool table for hours of entertainment, friendly staff to help you plan your next move, along with a state-of-the-art kitchen. This hostel ticks all the boxes for a fun and comfortable stay. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to make memories!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an age requirement at San Juan Island Hostel?
A: Yes, there is. The minimum age for guests staying in the dorm rooms is 18. Meanwhile, children 13+ can stay in private rooms with an adult.
Q: Does the hostel have free parking?
A: Yes! The hostel has a free parking lot right in front, so there’s no need to hunt for street parking.
Q: How close is the hostel to the town and to local beaches?
A: The hostel is conveniently placed in the town of Friday Harbor, and it’s only a short stroll away from the ferry. Meanwhile, the nearest beach is Jackson Beach, which is around a mile away from the hostel.
