Friday Harbor Short-Term Rentals: 2025 Investor Snapshot
Craving stable returns in the San Juan Islands? Friday Harbor short-term rentals combine scenic island charm with lasting guest demand—consider paddleboarding at Jackson Beach or discovering exhibits at The Whale Museum for a taste of what keeps visitors coming back to this vibrant port.
Quick Takeaways
- 162+ active vacation rental listings in Friday Harbor
- Average daily rate (ADR): $320/night
- Occupancy: 68% (peak season)
- Year-over-year booking revenue up 8%
- Last-minute cancellations rising slightly in shoulder seasons
- Invest near ferry terminals for best visibility and walkability
Market Growth and Key Numbers
Interest in STR investing in Friday Harbor remains strong. Active listings surpass 160 this year, driven by growing visitor arrivals for whale-watching and annual events like the Friday Harbor Film Festival (https://www.fhff.org/). Average daily rates flirt with $320, and weekends see even higher returns. Occupancy hovers at 68%, but savvy pricing and calendar management can help investors capitalize on shoulder seasons.
Booking Trends and Revenue Potential
Friday Harbor benefits from a loyal repeat visitor base. Year-over-year data reveals an 8% increase in gross booking revenue—partly due to higher nightly rates and a surge in summer travel. Cancellation rates are inching up in early spring, but overall, the market remains remarkably resilient. Listings positioned close to the downtown core or San Juan Islands Museum of Art (https://sjima.org/) consistently outperform.
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Listing Strategies and Guest Appeal
The most successful vacation rentals in Friday Harbor blend waterfront access with thoughtful amenities. STR investing in Friday Harbor rewards owners who cater to multi-gen families, couples, and adventure-seeking groups alike. Give your property a competitive edge by offering kayaks or providing insider tips on the San Juan Community Theatre season (https://www.sjctheatre.org/).
Where to List and Next Steps
To capitalize on strong local demand, ensure your property shines on Airbnb and leverage direct booking channels. Keep an eye on local events, adjust nightly minimums, and stay flexible—Friday Harbor’s thriving tourism scene means every season brings fresh opportunities for investors.
Start your journey investing in Friday Harbor short-term rentals today—see what your property could earn or reach out with questions.
