Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! (Elephant House)
Cabin in San Juan Island, WA
4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceOne of the higher cost properties in the area
Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi, Balcony or Patio and more
About this cabin rental
Waterfront! The Elephant house is a unique and cozy waterfront island retreat! Decorated with elephants throughout and offering wonderful Spieden Channel views it's no doubt a place for enjoyment and relaxation. Located about a mile from Roche Harbor, this retreat is convenient to many amenities including shopping, dining, and nightlife activities, if you desire. Enjoy walks, bike rides or launch stand-up paddle boards or kayaks from the community beach at the isthmus. Indulge in the different varieties of wildlife such as birds, eagles, seals, whales, deer, and fox that inhabit the areas around this home.
Accommodations include a master loft furnished with a King-sized bed, and a sitting area that looks out a picture window to the water. The second room is located on the main level and is furnished with a King-sized bed as well.
Enjoy relaxing evenings around the propane fireplace in the living room or out enjoying the sunset barbecuing on the deck. A true island cabin!
** Please note: The Elephant House has a Smart TV. This means it does not have regular cable or satellite TV service. It works through the internet to log into your Amazon / Hulu / HBO go accounts and the like. The owner has subscribed to a Netflix account for guests to use if they would like. **
** Parents please be aware that this home has high-bank waterfront exposure and although the owners welcome families, the home may not be suitable for all children.
Fire pits are not usable from May 1st-September 30th due to county burn ban and safety of property and neighboring areas. Ban is usually lifted October 1st if/when conditions and weather are favorable. Firewood not provided.
Please note, the stairs to the loft are slightly narrower than the average staircase and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
This house has good cell phone reception.
This house has Internet access.
This house has electric heat and a propane fireplace.
This is a Non-Smoking property. This house is NOT pet friendly.
Please be advised, yard maintenance may occur during your stay.
The internet / Wi-fi at this house should be sufficient for streaming video, phone calls, remote work and video conferencing. Internet Speed Test Results -Download Speed: 8.6 Mbps, Upload Speed: .88 Mbps, Ping: 141 ms (Average of three tests that were conducted in January of 2022 using SpeedCheck Pro).
vr permit number 99spr083
Accommodations include a master loft furnished with a King-sized bed, and a sitting area that looks out a picture window to the water. The second room is located on the main level and is furnished with a King-sized bed as well.
Enjoy relaxing evenings around the propane fireplace in the living room or out enjoying the sunset barbecuing on the deck. A true island cabin!
** Please note: The Elephant House has a Smart TV. This means it does not have regular cable or satellite TV service. It works through the internet to log into your Amazon / Hulu / HBO go accounts and the like. The owner has subscribed to a Netflix account for guests to use if they would like. **
** Parents please be aware that this home has high-bank waterfront exposure and although the owners welcome families, the home may not be suitable for all children.
Fire pits are not usable from May 1st-September 30th due to county burn ban and safety of property and neighboring areas. Ban is usually lifted October 1st if/when conditions and weather are favorable. Firewood not provided.
Please note, the stairs to the loft are slightly narrower than the average staircase and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
This house has good cell phone reception.
This house has Internet access.
This house has electric heat and a propane fireplace.
This is a Non-Smoking property. This house is NOT pet friendly.
Please be advised, yard maintenance may occur during your stay.
The internet / Wi-fi at this house should be sufficient for streaming video, phone calls, remote work and video conferencing. Internet Speed Test Results -Download Speed: 8.6 Mbps, Upload Speed: .88 Mbps, Ping: 141 ms (Average of three tests that were conducted in January of 2022 using SpeedCheck Pro).
vr permit number 99spr083
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Map of San Juan Island, WA
RRRR
Reviews
Summary of reviews
Guests loved the beautiful views, clean accommodations, well-stocked rentals, comfortable beds, and peaceful atmosphere. They enjoyed seeing wildlife like orcas, seals, and deer, as well as the convenience of nearby amenities. Highly recommended for a relaxing stay!
10.0
The most idyllic house in the best setting. We hope to stay again!
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Our stay at Elephant House was a highlight of our vacation - it went to the top of my wife's list! It's a charming cabin, with a truly wonderful view of the water, boats, and islands. The decor inside the cabin is wonderful! The kitchen is simple but effective (full-sized 'fridge and a good stove). Several groups of deer browsed through the property in the mornings, and my wife saw a fox late one night.Definitely a 10 (would have been 11 if it had direct access to the water, but given the location I can see why that isn't possible). Strongly recommended!
10.0
Location was great for the island tour
10.0
Beautiful view and just the peaceful stay we needed.
10.0
The house is comfortable and well appointed. The view of the water was breathtaking and we got to see a pod of orcas as well as local deer grazing in the yard. It was a lovely break from the routine.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The cottage was very, very clean and just stocked pretty well. Plenty of towels, dishes etc. Very comfortable. The views were awesome. We saw Harbor Seals, even a pod of 3 orcas on our last early morning. The firepit was wonderful and it was so nice having wood there for that. We were thrilled with the rental all the way around. Would definitely stay here again.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Three Orcas went by the cabin on my last day! The whale watching tour, through “All Aboard Sailing “ was incredible. The captain sent us a description of our tour including the identification of the four whales we saw, and at least twenty high quality photos he shot during the tour. A very knowledgeable man and a lovely sailboat made for a great experience.
10.0
Nice quiet location- nice walk into Roche Harbor. Views are lovely and house is nicely equipped.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We were pleasantly surprised with how cute this cabin was and also with the location. The view was beautiful with sunsets every night over the ocean. Well appointed with all the items needed, quiet community surrounded by big fancy properties. Nice amenities but furniture is ready for some updating.
10.0
My husband and I stayed here for a week to celebrate our 25th anniversary. It was perfect for the two of us. It had everything that we needed. Walking distance to Roche Harbor (1.5 miles) for breakfast and not too long of a drive to anywhere on the island. While we weren't lucky enough to see any whales from the house, we did two different tours from Friday Harbor and saw orcas both times. You won't regret renting this cute and cozy cabin!
10.0
My husband and I returned to San Juan Island for for our 10-year wedding anniversary. Perfect place for us! Check in was seamless, place was as advertised, easy parking, kitchen was well appointed. We saw Orcas, harbor seals, a fox, and a deer/fawn right from the deck. Will return!
10.0
Everything was perfect
10.0
Beautiful location and nice well kept home. Living room furniture and stairs difficult to manage if you have orthopedic issues. Deck was lovely highlight of the house.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had a lovely stay at the Elephant House! The property was as-advertised, and the views are even more breathtaking than the photos. The house is immaculately clean and well maintained, and stocked with all the essentials. My favorite part of the stay was the fire pit - thankful we were there during October when fires are allowed. So peaceful and relaxing.
8.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Second time staying at elephant house. Love the location and view, so quaint and charming. The furniture is getting tired and could use an upgrade for the price your paying. Aside from that everything's great. Well stocked and located.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
It was amazing! The deck and view of the ocean was so relaxing. The sunsets were outstanding. The house itself was very comfortable. Loved our stay there!
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Our family of four had an amazing stay. The view was incredible and the location was private and peaceful, yet close enough to Friday Harbor for shops, groceries, whale watching tour etc. We had everything we needed for our stay and enjoyed cooking meals and our time on the deck - plus enjoying the views from inside. Highly recommend.
6.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Nice stay. Great Location, very private and quiet. Beautiful views, very clean property. Down side: No screens on several windows and with the invasion of mosquitos at night it was hard to cool the place down. Luckily we brought a fan from home that helped. Would have been nice to have a couple provided. It would have also been nice to have an umbrella for the patio table. Also, housekeeping needs to leave more supplies, ie; there was only 1 extra trash bag which was not adequate for our stay and the amount of cooking we did. We almost ran out of toilet paper and paper towels. Again we could not find any extras. Lastly, we could not find instructions on how to lock the front door. It took a while to figure it out. It would have been nice to leave directions on the door.Overall we had a fun stay but I would not return to this property unless I knew that the screens had been replaced and fans were provided.
10.0
Waterfront haven
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Lovely home and interesting architecture. Great waterfront location in peaceful neighborhood which lends itself to quiet times outside. Neighbors are close by, but it was quiet when we were there (including at new build home on one side). Great location on island for seclusion and being close to waterfront. Still easy to get to any point on island for activities or dinner. Upstairs bed was comfortable. Toiletries and kitchen spices were quite light. Gas heater was awesome. Unfortunate you can’t use the outdoor fire pit in June- still cool enough at nights.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Lovely home and interesting architecture. Great waterfront location in peaceful neighborhood which lends itself to quiet times outside. Neighbors are close by, but it was quiet when we were there (including at new build home on one side). Great location on island for seclusion and being close to waterfront. Still easy to get to any point on island for activities or dinner. Upstairs bed was comfortable. Toiletries and kitchen spices were quite light. Gas heater was awesome. Unfortunate you can’t use the outdoor fire pit in June- still cool enough at nights.
10.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We rode our tandem bicycle on to the ferry at Anacortes so we could visit the island without the hassle of ferry reservations and lines. The Elephant House is about 10 miles from the ferry in a quiet spot right on the water. It was a good home base for our long weekend trip.The cottage was clean and in great condition. It seems that the bathroom and floors were updated recently. We got the feeling it was originally built as a labor of love with unique construction and interesting touches. We really enjoyed viewing the wildlife and sunsets from the deck.Roche Harbor is very close to the cottage. There is a small but well stocked local market there (with resort pricing) as well as two restaurants that we declined to visit due to COVID. Snug Harbor is a bit further but still close and is the home base for affiliated kayak tour company that we use one day. We had a beautiful kayak tour and were even lucky enough to have orcas swim by.This cottage was great for two people with a large sleeping loft above the main area. There is also a nice separate bedroom that we didn't even use but there is easily enough space for a small family or two couples to stay.The only disappointment was that the rental listing prominently features the fire pit and firewood but fires are not allowed during summer and early fall.
10.0
A beautiful, quiet retreat
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We rode our tandem bicycle on to the ferry at Anacortes so we could visit the island without the hassle of ferry reservations and lines. The Elephant House is about 10 miles from the ferry in a quiet spot right on the water. It was a good home base for our long weekend trip.
The cottage was clean and in great condition. It seems that the bathroom and floors were updated recently. We got the feeling it was originally built as a labor of love with unique construction and interesting touches. We really enjoyed viewing the wildlife and sunsets from the deck.
Roche Harbor is very close to the cottage. There is a small but well stocked local market there (with resort pricing) as well as two restaurants that we declined to visit due to COVID. Snug Harbor is a bit further but still close and is the home base for affiliated kayak tour company that we use one day. We had a beautiful kayak tour and were even lucky enough to have orcas swim by.
This cottage was great for two people with a large sleeping loft above the main area. There is also a nice separate bedroom that we didn't even use but there is easily enough space for a small family or two couples to stay.
The only disappointment was that the rental listing prominently features the fire pit and firewood but fires are not allowed during summer and early fall.
The cottage was clean and in great condition. It seems that the bathroom and floors were updated recently. We got the feeling it was originally built as a labor of love with unique construction and interesting touches. We really enjoyed viewing the wildlife and sunsets from the deck.
Roche Harbor is very close to the cottage. There is a small but well stocked local market there (with resort pricing) as well as two restaurants that we declined to visit due to COVID. Snug Harbor is a bit further but still close and is the home base for affiliated kayak tour company that we use one day. We had a beautiful kayak tour and were even lucky enough to have orcas swim by.
This cottage was great for two people with a large sleeping loft above the main area. There is also a nice separate bedroom that we didn't even use but there is easily enough space for a small family or two couples to stay.
The only disappointment was that the rental listing prominently features the fire pit and firewood but fires are not allowed during summer and early fall.
10.0
Great Location
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We really enjoyed our stay. Two minor downsides: I called the office in advance with a question and never got a return phone call and we never could find a dust pan so we had to sweep the fir needles out the door as best we could. Otherwise, very clean and comfortable and we loved the view.
10.0
Elephant House
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
WE WOULD DEFINATLY COME BACK TO THIS PROPERTY AGAIN.
8.0
Elephant house.
Beautiful structure and setting.
10.0
Perfect Stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
I had a very enjoyable stay. Everything about the property is perfect.
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We have been coming to the San Juan’s for years and this by far was the best location and stay! The house was comfortable, charming, and just right for a week get away for our family of 4. The views could not have been better!
10.0
Just the right spot!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We have been coming to the San Juan’s for years and this by far was the best location and stay! The house was comfortable, charming, and just right for a week get away for our family of 4. The views could not have been better!
10.0
Excellent place to stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This is our third time staying at the Elephant House. We love it. We traveled only by bikes so our ability to obtain extra items was limited. The only problems that we had was a lack of a dish pad to clean the dishes and garbage bags. These are relatively trivial and this place is an excellent place to stay - very comfortable and cozy.
10.0
Elephant House
We had a wonderful stay in this cabin! The location was perfect - off the beaten path, incredible views, but still easy to get to all the activities we wanted to do. We had fun wildlife visits including several harbor seals in the water below, a golden eagle, bald eagles, and a momma dear and her baby. The sunsets were amazing and overall the cabin was perfect for our family of four.
10.0
Location, Location, Location
Without a doubt this is the best spot on the island. The sunsets are incredible straight off the deck. Deer walked through the yard day and night. This property is clean, modern and comfortable. We would stay here in an instant.
10.0
Great views
Fabulous views of the water and other islands and perfect sunsets. House is located off the beaten path in a quiet neighborhood, but the neighbors are pretty close on both sides. House had lots of nice amenities and everything we needed. Bed was very comfy, but carpeted stairs to the loft are steep and narrow - wouldn't recommend for kids. Would love to go back again soon!
10.0
Simply wonderful
I booked this VRBO for a girls trip. The house is exceptional! We loved it! The location, the setting, the abundant wildlife and all amenities that are available for you to have a very comfortable stay. When we come back, I will definitely look for this listing again. Thank you Elephant House at Anchor Bay, we made lots of fun memories and had the best time.
10.0
Perfect
Perfect setting. Lots of animals to see. Great location for exploring. I will definitely book another stay at this home. Beds were super comfortable, kitchen well equipped, other than it needs a new can opener.
5.0
Love at first sight. And, a pod of orca's, with a baby, the first morning. Can't beat that. Perfect view from the deck. The stairs up were a challenge, but we conquered them. A list of things to know, like where the extra towels were and how to use roku stick, would help. Arriving looking for a big red mail box, only to find a black one. Little things. Put them all together and the time spent was the best. Bed was very comfortable as was the shower.
5.0
Rating Details:The property manager was very helpful.The vacation rental was spotless.I was very happy with the location.I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.Reviewer Comments:We had such a great time relaxing here. This is our favorite part of the island and the views didn't disappoint! We even got to see some whales swim by up close and personal one morning- what a treat! The house was very clean, the beds were super comfy, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. We will be returning!
10.0
Elephant House Paradise!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had such a great time relaxing here. This is our favorite part of the island and the views didn't disappoint! We even got to see some whales swim by up close and personal one morning- what a treat! The house was very clean, the beds were super comfy, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. We will be returning!
10.0
Elephant House
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Loved our time on San Juan
10.0
sweet retreat
Love at first sight. And, a pod of orca's, with a baby, the first morning. Can't beat that. Perfect view from the deck. The stairs up were a challenge, but we conquered them. A list of things to know, like where the extra towels were and how to use roku stick, would help. Arriving looking for a big red mail box, only to find a black one. Little things. Put them all together and the time spent was the best. Bed was very comfortable as was the shower.
10.0
Great Retreat Space
Elephant House was a great place to just chill for a few days! Nice, quiet neighborhood for short walks. Proximity to Roche Harbor made this location perfect for us.
FAQs
How much does this cabin cost compared to others in San Juan Island?
The average price for a rental in San Juan Island is R 6,127 per night. This rental is R 3,960 above the average.
Is parking included with this cabin?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! (Elephant House). For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cabin?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cabin. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! (Elephant House) pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cabin is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Waterfront Cabin near Roche Harbor! (Elephant House)?
We found 4 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, laundry, and balcony or patio.
Explore similar vacation rentals in San Juan Island
Explore all rentals in San Juan IslandSan Juan Island travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Best Dining in Myrtle Beach: A Food Lover’s Dream
Guides
Best East Coast Beaches and Getaway Locations You Can’t Miss
Budget Travel
7 Most Affordable Snowbird Destinations for 2025
Guides
Top Activities to Try in Panama City Beach, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida