Mar Vista is certainly not what most people would consider a resort. It has very dated cabins scattered about on the 40 acres overlooking the Strait of Haro. Deer, raccoons, bald eagles, otters and seals can be seen on and around the property. Unfortunately we didn't see the whales. It was incredibly quiet and beautiful walking the trails and going to the beach at Mar Vista. The cabin was very basic, but we found everything we needed except a deck of cards! No tv or internet (thank goodness). Don't expect a pool or spa either! Fitness? Walk the trails! The owners were very sweet and the other vistors all met at the whale watch point for sunset. Very peaceful.

Mowed grassy slopes in front of cabins are a good place ot soak up sunshine while listening to songbirds. Chairs on front porch are nice for watching dragonflies and the sea - or reading a book. Mowed strips through the tall grass provide trails - one leads to a bench at an overlook for whale watching, another to the water's edge. "Beach" here is a small sandy area with driftwood where children will enjoy playing, and rock that can be explored at low tide. Tide pools on the island are not rich, and exploration space here is limited anyway, even at low tide. However, this is a great place to watch river otters, orcas, eagles - and the sunset. Cabins apppear to have been built and furnished about 50 years ago; maintenance seems to have been limited to critical needs, cleaning is cursory, and beds are not comfortable. Microwave ovens have been added without dedicated circuits, but the breaker box is conveniently located. Management is friendly and rings a bell when they notice whales. Location is convenient to American Camp and Lime Kiln State Park. The cabins all appear to have some amount of sea view, but the great views are from the overlook and the water's edge. The place is secluded and quiet.. Lodging and dining on San Juan is expensive; Mar Vista offers rare affordability for a family on a budget. Another option might be to stay elsewhere and day trip to San Juan.

Words can't express my sincere thoughts on this resort. Sure the cabins are a blast from the past but I fell in love with them the moment we opened the door. We had a short 2 night stay there and then a stay in Friday Harbor and on one of those nights I motioned for my husband to turn back into their entranceas we drove by, he mentioned we weren't booked in there anymore and i replied but that is where my heart is.From the quaint cabins, the mama raccoon and babies, endless robins and hummingbirds, eagles deer and whales, it is a place to treasure. Our hosts were most helpful and kind and the property has views to die for. Thanks Mar Vista!

The cabins are dated, but the location and beautiful scenery are unbelievable! We visited in 2007 and just planned another trip for 2009. We saw orcas daily, seals (including a baby seal on the beach), a resident raccoon, and eagles. The sunsets are spectacular. With the gentle sea breeze and spectacular views, this tranquil spot is truly a slice of heaven.