San Juan Island getaways are what Seattle summers were made for. Getting away with the kids in tow? Let’s just say it isn’t as easy as it seems. Enter Pebble Cove Farm, a cozy B&B on Orcas Island that caters to kids as much as their parents, so there’s no need to take a vacation from your vacation. Sit back, relax and read on for the inside scoop on this island oasis.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Down on the Farm
Tucked into a cove near Deer Harbor on Orcas Island is where you’ll find Pebble Cove Farm, a four-acre parcel of peace and quiet, and an easy weekend getaway for PNW families. This B&B has been around since 2006, after a two-year conversion from dilapidated barn into posh modern inn, and they’ve been welcoming families since the very beginning.

Owners Mike and Lydia Miller have three boys of their own, so they totally get kid-friendly. They’ve tricked out their B&B with indulgences that have complete kid-appeal, like a rowboat, a private island, even a horse to hang with. Plus, without the grandfather clocks, fragile antiques and frilly fixings of a typical B&B, parents can indulge and relax just as much as the kids do.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

A Sweet Suite
The whimsical, rustic décor in the Pebble Cove Farm Family Suite ($175-$275 per night) fits the property’s vibe perfectly, stylish without taking itself too seriously. The suite has two adjoining rooms so there’s plenty of space for your entire crew. Use the pull-out couch in the living room for the munchkins or let them bunk with you in the comfy queen in the bedroom. In the living room is where you’ll find the kitchenette. It’s got everything you need to cook a made-from-scratch breakfast of warm eggs plucked from the hen house that morning mixed with fresh-picked veggies and herbs from the garden. Foraging for delish eats is part of the fun of this DIY-spin on the typical B&B breakfast.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

The sitting room table seats four. And you’ll find a slew of kids’ books, and movies everyone can watch tucked into the console drawers, so there’s no need to take up space in the suitcase with these kid-in-tow travel essentials. If you need a bit more room or want more privacy, consider renting out The Cottage ($220-$325 per night). It’s got much of the same with a bit more space and a private balcony.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Take to the Seas
Besides the view, one of the coolest perks of staying at Pebble Cove is taking the rowboat out to Pirate Island. From the moment your minis spy the driftwood fort flying an oversized pirate flag, they’ll be begging to take the trip. Rowing out at low tide is definitely more challenging than when the tide is in, but it’s worth it if your Little loves tide pools. Tons are exposed when the water’s out and they make for some fascinating exploring. Skull Island is another rowable option, just left of Pirate Island. Watch the tides to help make the in-and-out rowing easier if you choose to make this journey. Psst! If your little mates are more the high seas types, the Miller’s have kayaks to rent ($40/2-hours, double; $30/2-hours, single) and a boat tour that can be booked for up to six people ($200/hour). Ahoy, matey!

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

A Yard of One’s Own
The Millers are all about guests making themselves at home. And there’s no place easier to do it than in the oversized backyard. It’s got everything you need to wear out your wiggle worms and still have them begging to come back and play tomorrow. Play catch, run around or blast off on the playground-grade swing set, this yard is set for limitless play. Best part? There’s a stocked box full of baseballs, soccer balls, pogo sticks and more that get lonely when they’re not getting used. Just behind the swings, you’ll find a cool little playhouse, complete with a ladder and lookout, perfectly proportioned for your sidekick. And the nearby hammock provides a sweet spot for parents to perch while the kids play. You relax. They run. What’s not to love?

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Farm to Table Dining 
In typical backyard fashion, this one’s got a shared gas grill and a large beachside fire pit just begging for some marshmallow roasting and star gazing on warm summer nights. Both are there for guests to use to grill up an easy dinner or delish lunch. Plan to bring along some grillables (or grab them when you get on island) and then pair them with fresh pickings from the Pebble Cove Farm garden. We’re thinking a crunchy tossed salad and sun-warmed berries should do the trick. It’s an easy way to make a farm-to-table dinner with delicious backdrop to match.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

The Wild Life
Since Pebble Cove is a working organic farm, seeing animals wandering the property is all part of the fun. Buddy, the horse, is almost always out in the yard, helping to keep the grass “mowed.” He’s super friendly and draws in kids like a magnet or a new Disney movie. They just can’t get enough of him! The goats and chickens like to roam too. Little farmers can follow them around or head to the animal pen for a wild meet and greet when the mood strikes. Remember to have the kiddos bring their food scraps while they’re at it. Feeding leftovers to the animals is a big part of the sustainable eco-system at Pebble Cove Farm.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

Play in the State Park
There are a few places around the island that are worth leaving the farm to check out. On a sunny day one of the most magical views in the state is high atop Mt. Constitution in Moran State Park. From this elevation you can spot Mt. Baker in the Cascades, check out some of the other islands in the Straits and give a friendly wave to our Canadian neighbors, eh. It’s a lookout that’s worth the drive or the hike (there are two that lead to the summit), and the observation tower is a fun climb to make with your sidekick. Be sure to stop at the gift shop and pick up a nature scavenger hunt for your littlest explorers. It’s a fun way for them to be on the lookout in the forest.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Beyond the summit, the park has a few hikes that are just the right speed for the tot lot. You’ll find the trailhead to the Cascade Falls hike near the bottom of Mount Constitution Road. In under 10 minutes you’ll reach Cascade Falls, the first of a few waterfalls in the area. Stay and play here, or keep exploring along these easy trails. Taking a hike around Cascade Lake is another easy one with the Littles. It’s flat and follows the perimeter of the lake, so there’s no getting lost. Pack a picnic to enjoy along the trail or in the day use area. And consider taking a paddleboat out on the lake in the summer. They’re available for rent through Labor Day.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Hit the Town
Getting to downtown Eastsound from Pebble Cove Farm is a pretty straight shot. Its flower-lined streets and peaceful views make it a total stroll-worthy spot on a sunny afternoon. And if it rains (or even if it doesn’t), you can duck into one of the many cute shops that have popped up along the main strip in the last decade or so. The local bookstore, Darvill’s, doubles as a coffee shop, and they’ve got a great collection of books authored by locals. Plus, story time on Fridays for little literati to enjoy. Printshop Northwest is another worthwhile find. They’ve got groovy graphic prints and lots of blank shirts. Pair some up and the whole fam can sport matching island threads around the city.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Where to Dine 
Fresh and local is the name of the food game in Eastsound. Restaurants like Rose’s Bakery Café, Mia’s and The Kitchen make finding a great bite easy. It’s a pretty sure bet that no matter where you stop, you won’t be disappointed. And the casual island attitude means having kidlets in tow is never too taboo. As for desserts or sticky gooey breakfast goodies, Brown Bear Baking and Kathryn Taylor Chocolates are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Be Travel Wise
The word is out on the San Juan Islands, so ferry reservations (in either direction) are a must. Book a scenic or express ferry online, or call 511 from your mobile to save a spot. Even with a reservation, plan on arriving at the ferry dock at least 45 minutes before boarding to ensure smooth sailing.

Pebble Cove Farm
3341 Deer Harbor Rd.
Eastsound, Wa 98245
360-376-6161
Online: pebblecovefarm.com

Do you plan to take the kids to Pebble Cove Farm this summer? Have you already been? Tell us about your experience in the Comments below.  

— Allison Sutcliffe

Millions of people visit the downtown national park and its surrounding museums (think: the National Gallery of Art and the Natural Museum of American History) each year. But, as fabulous as the Mall is, there are equally awesome (and kid-friendly) museums in other parts of D.C. Want to expose the kids to a little culture or history, but not in the mood for the crush of tourists? Here are six spots to check out this winter.

Steve F. Udvar-Hazy Center (a.k.a. the Air and Space Annex)

The Air and Space Museum on the Mall is worth visiting, but if you want the real-deal air-and-space experience, head out to Chantilly in Northern Virginia where a massive hanger displays planes such as the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird and the Concorde, and the space shuttle Discovery. Don’t leave without heading up to the observation tower to get an up-close look at the planes taking off from nearby Dulles Airport.

14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy. (Chantilly, Va)
Open: Daily 10 am-5:30 pm
Cost: Free ($15/parking)
Online: airandspace.si.edu

What is your favorite “off the Mall” museum? Tell us in the Comments section below.

—Katherine Gustafson

Photos courtesy of National Air and Space Museum via Facebook, CraigShipp.com Photos via Flickr, National Museum of Health and Medicine via Facebook, Madame Tussauds DC via Facebook, Ralph Toyama via Flickr, Aguilas2011 via Flickr

Isn’t it ironic that after having a baby—when your nerves are shot, you’re sleep deprived and you really need to go on vacation—traveling is the last thing on your mind? Well, it shouldn’t be. Especially when there are so many destinations designed with families of young ones in mind. From full-time (and free) resort nannies to stroller-accessible trams, these out-of-this-world locales go the distance when it comes to baby amenities. Ciao, bambino!

Placencia, Belize

Why go: Flanked by beaches and forests (snatch!) and all of the beauty that each has to offer, Belize is one of the only countries in Central America where English is the official language. This is a great thing if you aren’t fluent in Spanish, but need to find a replacement pacifier or a pack of diapers at midnight. Just sayin’.

Where to stay: The range of tot amenities at Robert’s Grove Beach Resort is super-extensive—backpack nature tours (pack that baby carrier), sitting services for when mom and dad want to check out the spa, and three ocean view pools for splish-splashing around. Bonus: Babies stay free … no questions asked.

What to do: Your little monkey will get a kick out of the friendly primates that roam around Belize freely. For a more controlled animal encounter visit the Belize Zoo, which is home to hundreds of species including big cats, iguanas, and Belize’s national animal Baird’s tapir. Don’t you dare leave the country without dropping by Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm, where a gorgeous butterfly is bound to land on your baby’s gorgeous bald head. Photo opp!

Kyoto, Japan

Why go: One of Japan’s oldest and most fascinating cities, Kyoto is packed with amazing temples and shrines for savoring the culture building by building. But, is it baby-friendly? Totally—especially if you are open to pounding the pavement (with a stroller or carrier in tow).

Where to stay: For easy access to Kyoto’s train station, check out Ryokan Ginkaku, a well-kept lodge with Japanese-style rooms (think: tot-accessible low tables and cushy floor futons). Little ones will love the garden on this hotel’s first floor—there’s a small pond filled with giant Koi fish. You’ll be enamored with the peaceful tea room that the garden leads to.

What to do: Strap your little one on you and hop on the train for the picturesque town of Nara where deer wander the parks freely. Instead of salty pretzels or candy bars, street vendors sell deer food so that you and the littles can feed the beautiful Bambis. Take your train loving tot to Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, where she’ll get an up-close look at 18-plus steam engines, and even go for a 10-minute ride on one of them. If the bambino has started on solid foods, make a pit stop at one of Kyoto’s many noodle shops for some authentic ramen.

Dublin, Ireland

Why go: You may think that Ireland is a place better suited for boozy bus tours or travelers with years and years of adventure under their belts, but the country—and Dublin in particular—is actually extremely welcoming towards families with young kids. Plus, there’s no age restriction on Blarney Stone kissing. Plan on renting a car (since Ireland’s public transportation is limited) and map out a light-but-lively plan of attack. Don’t forget your ‘ellas!

Where to stay: They probably won’t remember it, but spending the night in an actual castle (like Ashford Castle) is an experience not to be missed. In addition to having cribs and highchairs in the rooms, babies can toddle around the massive gardens until they’re pooped out, and babysitters are on call should you want to venture out solo in the evening.

What to do: Snag a ride at Phoenix Park Bike Hire (they rent out toddler trailers and tag-alongs, too) and pedal push it around the capital. Stop by Greenan Farm and strap on baby to go through the hedge maze. Raining? Dublin’s kid’s museum Imaginosity offers interactive exhibits—think a cool dress up stage—for toddlers. And surprise! Even the pubs allow little ones; during the afternoons (typically before 8 p.m.) parents can enjoy a pint while listening to live music as the wee ones play nearby.

Prague, Czech Republic

Why go: For a city-esque destination, Prague is tops—especially with a little one in the fray. The best way to travel is by foot and stroller or on the tram (and what babbler doesn’t love that?). The best part: With horse drawn carraiges and hill-perched castles to your left and right, the entire city looks like a page out of kiddo’s favorite bedtime tale.

Where to stay: Aquapalace isn’t just a baby-friendly hotel (with the cutest lobby level baby corner), it’s also a waterpark with mini slides, wading pools and splash pads. Venturing beyond the hotel? Snag a free bike with kiddie seat from concierge and enjoy the ride!

What to do: One of a baby’s favorite past-times is people-watching. They’ll get their fill at Old Town Square, where there are a slew of street vendors selling super-cute wooden toys and puppets. Strap on baby and take the funicular up Petrin Hill where you’ll find an observation tower and a vintage hall of mirrors (perfect for your little ham to stare at himself).

Fiji

Why go: Whether you dreamed of honeymooning in Fiji or you really did, you may find vacationing on the exotic island with a beby just as awesome. That’s because the islands are teeming with blue oceans, warm water springs and a sweet kid-centric vibe (translation: he or she won’t want for attention).

Where to stay: Many of Fiji’s resorts offer kids’ clubs or on-site nanny services, but a must-check-out is Jean Michel Cousteau Resort, an all-inclusive spot that offers free vacation nannies for babies and tots. One nannie is assigned to your family during the entire length of your stay, which is great for a few-and-far-between grownups-only dinner date.

What to do: Where there’s a beach, there’s most likely a happy baby. With blindingly white sand and crystal clear blue waters, if you do nothing else on this vacay, slather everyone in SPF and head for the shore. If baby is on solids, find a fresh mango or pawpaw stand for an afternoon snack. Cool off with a ride on a glass bottom boat—a fave for the baby and toddler demographic.

Vienna, Austria

Why go: Playgrounds are tucked into nearly every free corner of the city, making it easy for tots to play off some of their schnitzel-fueled energy before naptime. Another perk to vacationing in Vienna is the city’s across-the-board respect for new parents—even subway signs suggest giving up seats to baby-attended grown-ups.

Where to stay:  Skip the tour-bus headaches by staying at Hotel Karntnerhof, which is located smack-dab in the middle of city center. Shopping, museums and the underground are literally around the corner. It’s that kind of flexibility that makes for the most fun with-child getaways.

What to do: Break up your playground hopping (remember, they are all over the place) by catching a kiddie concert at Vienna’s Hausdermusik museum or popping into Zoom Children’s Museum, which caters to itty-bitties in their Ocean-themed activity playroom.

Have you gone on an amazing vacation with your bambino? Tell us all about it in the comments section below.

— Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Photos courtesy of Joshua Berman via Creative Commons, Phoenix Park Bike Hire via Facebook, Alfonso Jimenez via Creative Commons, myjedilightsaber via Creative Commons, Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort via Facebook, Mario’s Planet via Creative Commons

You’ve heard of a staycation. But how about a daycation? One precious day where families wave bye-bye to those time-consuming obligations and say hello to family time. Read on for all the reasons you’ll need to plan a family daycation at Seattle’s favorite beach spot—Alki. Your sandy oasis awaits!

1. Because you never turn down a street party. Kickstart the summer beach season with a street party and family-friendly 5K race, May 18 on Alki. Start your day running in the West Seattle 5K Run/Walk to benefit West Seattle High School. The scenic course runs along the beach where seal and ferry sightings are almost a sure thing. Then stay to party with SDOT when they shut down the streets and let the people take over (well… sort of). Plan on a costume bike parade (starting at 1 p.m.), DJ sets, a fire truck just waiting to be explored, plus lots of time with neighbors and friends. Party on!

2. Because kites are more fun with a view. Those breezy days at the end of spring and early summer provide just enough wind for some carefree kite flying on Alki. Pack up the kiddos and a tricked-out stunt kite or basic diamond flyer and then lift off!

3. Because summers were made for BBQ. And Alki is the perfect backdrop for grilling up hot dogs and s’mores in their open air fire pits run through Seattle Parks and Recreation. These bad boys are first come, first serve and fill up fast on summer weekends. So pack up some firewood and grill-ready noshables, then arrive early to reserve your space. Bring on summer!

4. Because there’s even a museum. The Log House Museum provides a nice detour when your lil’ beach bums have reached their daily sun and sand quota. Just a block off the beach, the museum houses West Seattle artifacts and can be toured formally or informally. A small donation ($3/adult and $1/child) is suggested for admission. Learning and playing? Sounds like a plan!

5. Because there’s no tide like low tide. And Alki low tides are some of the most dynamic in town. Wear rain boots and carry a bucket to collect and examine up close all the cool things you’ll find (think crabs, sea anemones and kelp times ten). Or hunt with local volunteers through the Seattle Aquarium’s Beach Naturalist Program. This free, family-friendly program is a great place to learn about the Sound and its inhabitants. The Alki group usually meets at 63rd Ave. S.W. along Beach Dr., and the naturalists wear red caps, so they’re easy to spot.

6. Because who can resist a treasure hunt? If there’s one thing you can count on when it comes to kids and sand, it’s their passion for digging. And dig they will when the sensors go off on your metal detector. Bring one and some shovels down to the beach this summer to see what precious metals you can unearth. It’s all treasure to the kidlets!

7. Because pirates are awesome. Grab an eye patch and pirate bandana (weathered hook optional), then head over to Alki for the annual landing of the pirates. A beloved part of the city’s Seafair celebration, this is one cool experience for mateys big and small. Part street fair, part family beach time, this year’s pirate bonanza is scheduled for the morning of July 28. Start practicing your pirate talk now for this one!

8. Because there’s a secret park to explore. Just south of Salty’s, families will find Jack Block Park, and we’re guessing it’s one park you haven’t explored yet. With walking trails, a children’s play area, and a totally cool observation tower, Jack Block’s definitely worth checking out. It puts a whole new perspective on the harbor!

9. Because summers were made for ice cream. And Pepperdock’s has the best on the beach. They serve up Cascade Glacier ice cream scoops as big as your head to hungry beach goers every day. Expect a line on sunny days, but remember it’s worth the wait!

10. Because the Alki Bath House isn’t the Roman kind. If you’ve ever been to Alki, you’ve probably seen the Alki Bath House. Just east of the Statue of Liberty, this building can be rented for events, and plays host to camps and classes run through the Alki Community Center during the summer. Check the schedule and see what piques your interest.

11. Because family bike rides rule! If you can ride it, you can bring it to Alki this summer. Bike, board, skate, stroll, run, walk or jog along Alki with the family. No streets to cross and a trail that goes on for miles (it continues all the way to Lincoln Park along the shore!), it’s as family-friendly as it gets. Plus, on a sunny day, you can’t find a better view anywhere in the city!

12. Because sometimes kids get hungry. When the kiddos work up an appetite from all that digging and rock throwing down on the beach, there are plenty of family-friendly spots happy to help out. Check out Pegasus Pizza and Pasta or Cactus for sit-down dining and delish food. Or grab a slice and a Coke at Slices on Alki. We love their casual outdoor seating. Early mornings call for homemade breakfast fare at the Alki Café . And Spuds is a definite go-to if all that water’s got you thinking about fish ‘n’ chips. 

13. Because there’s even a playground. When the novelty of the beach has worn off, and the kiddos need a change of scenery, head over to Whale Tail Park. This nautically-themed playground comes complete with swings, slides and a boat, from which the kiddos can spot their white whale (or in this case his metallic tail). Land ho!

14. Because you’ve always wondered what a surrey was. Cruise with the fam along the beach this summer with a surrey rental from Wheel Fun Rentals. You can rent them by the hour, and they easily fit a family of five, plus a small furry friend (bring ‘em if you’ve got ‘em) in the basket. You’ll bring a whole new meaning to cruising the strip!

15. Because art is always better beachside. This year’s Alki Art Fair is scheduled for July 19-20, and it’s just one more reason for families to make an Alki date this summer. With art booths, musicians and a slew of children’s art activities, it promises an artfully inspired seaside experience.

16. Because you might spot a whale. There’s life beyond the Statue of Liberty on Alki. It’s hard to believe, but it’s true. And if you head over to Constellation Park you might just spot orcas travelling between Vashon Island and West Seattle. Check out The Whale Trail for the low down on these chance sightings.

17. Because lighthouses were made to explore. The iconic Alki Point Lighthouse is open for tours during the summer months. Usually from 1-4 p.m., with the last tour starting around 3:45 p.m. This is beach history at its best!

18. Because beach time rocks! When you’ve crossed off everything else on this list, don’t forget about simple beach time with the fam. You can sun while the kiddos dig and dig and dig some more. Beach towels, snacks and every sand toy you own are all you need for this one. Three cheers for sunny Seattle days!

What’s your favorite family activity on Alki? Share it with us in a comment below.

–Allison Sutcliffe

Photos thanks to: Heather Whelan, Sally Heit, Alki Art Fair’s Facebook page, Seattle Aquarium, West Seattle 5k’s Facebook page, Seafair’s Facebook page & Allison Sutcliffe

Getting to Orcas Island in the San Juan’s, especially when you have kids in tow, may seem like a game of planes,

View from Pebble Cove Farm on Orcas Island

trains and automobiles (and, of course, ferries). But once you arrive, you won’t regret making the effort. It’ll be a chance for the whole family to unplug from all the usual distractions.

STAY

The Orcas Suites at Rosario is perfect for families who want some creature comforts, such as cable, jet tubs and hairdryers. The property overlooks Cascade Bay and all rooms have a view of the water. There are several types of rooms available from studios to two-bedroom suites, with kitchens. Children under 16 stay free.

West Beach Resort cottage

West Beach Resort is great if you like a more rustic experience. The resort offers an RV park, campgrounds, tent cabins and several styles of cottages that can accommodate couples or large families/groups. What’s great for families is that you don’t have to leave the resort if you don’t want to. West Beach offers numerous family-friendly activities from beachcombing to fishing off the pier. During the summer, there are daily kids’ activities, including face painting, scavenger hunts and movie night. This is popular destination, so book ahead.

Pebble Cove Farm, which overlooks Massacre Bay, welcomes families. You can dig for clams on the beach or kayak. You also can help yourself to the organic eggs from the chickens and pick berries. There are pet goats that the kids can pet. Likewise, Olga Farmhouse is another charming option to consider. It is surrounded by meadows and woods, and even has a stream that runs past the property. The house is fully equipped and even has a large flat-screen television. When in season, you can pick pears, apples and blackberries with your children.

PLAY

It goes without saying that watching wildlife is a must on Orcas. While you’re out and about, don’t forget to look up: San Juan County apparently has more nesting pairs of bald eagles than any other county in the country. So you just may see some bald eagles during your visit to the island. Whale watching also is a major pastime on Orcas. You can go on a whale-watching tour through Deer Harbor Charters. Deer Harbor Charters is an eco tour company and uses biodiesel for fuel.

Visit Moran State Park, which offers plenty of trails and five freshwater lakes. You can go to the top of Mt. Constitution, which is the highest point of any of the San Juan Islands. There is a stone observation tower from which you get a 360-degree view of the surrounding islands. It’s especially stunning at sunset. You can camp at Moran State Park, too.

Hang out in Eastsound, which is the largest village on Orcas. There are plenty of shops, including Cherry Ts children’s consignment shop and Leapin’ Lizards toy and clothing store.

Allium Restaurant

EAT

Roses Bakery & Café is a must for wonderful breads and baked goods, and simple lunches made from seasonal ingredients. There is a great selection of specialty food items and wines. Owners John and Joni Trumbull are the consummate hosts.

Allium Restaurant is owned by Lisa Nakamura, who had been one of the cooks at The Herbfarm in Woodinville until she opened her own place on Orcas. Allium serves lunch and dinner and features Northwest cuisine. There is deck seating with a view of the water. You can also pick up gourmet sandwiches “to go” for outings around the island. Call first for their hours as they’re not open every day.

Stop by Kathryn Taylor Chocolates for a treat. The café serves desserts, baked goods, coffee and drinking chocolates that the kids are sure to like. The owners named the shop after their daughter, who’s 6 years old and helps to create chocolate flavors.

– Hsiao-Ching Chou

PS: Don’t miss our San Juan Island Travel Guide too!