A long, narrow, fjord-like bay on the south side of Stuart Island, Reid Harbor is one of the roomiest and best-protected anchorages in the San Juan Islands, fronting Stuart Island Marine State Park.
Reid Harbor cuts deep into the southeast side of Stuart Island, forming a long, narrow basin with steep, wooded sides that has been compared to a small Scandinavian fjord. It offers ample swinging room for a large number of boats along its entire length, plus a state-park mooring field with roughly 13 buoys, a linear-tie system, a public dock, and a pump-out.
The harbor is the centerpiece of Stuart Island Marine State Park, with toilets, campsites, and shore access at the head of the bay. A popular 4.5-mile round-trip trail leads across the island to the historic Turn Point Lighthouse, and a path connects to the park facilities on Prevost Harbor on the island's north side.
Holding is good in sticky mud, and the surrounding high ground gives the anchorage a calm, sheltered feel in most conditions, making it a favorite overnight stop and crabbing spot.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
Approach Reid Harbor from the south/southeast, leaving Gossip Island and the rocks off its southern tip to starboard as you enter; the entrance is relatively narrow and shoals to the sides, so favor mid-channel and watch the sounder carefully on the way in. Charts (NOAA 18432) should be consulted, as boaters have grounded on rocks when entering Stuart Island's harbors.
Once inside, the basin deepens and is straightforward, though the head of the harbor shoals - anchor before the shallow, drying flats at the very head. Time arrival and departure for fair current in the surrounding channels (Boundary Pass and President Channel can run hard), and watch for crab-pot floats and other anchored boats in the often-crowded fairway.
Wind protection summary and tide planning at a glance. Full per-direction and 7-day detail with Plus.
Live readings from the nearest OpenWeather station and WorldTides; refreshed every few minutes.
Source: OpenWeather One Call API + WorldTides.
A curated photo + map walkthrough showing approach, mooring options, and points of interest.
A guided walkthrough of Reid Harbor with approach photos, depth notes, and points of interest — written by members who have been here recently.
Member-uploaded images of this anchorage.
Real first-hand reports and questions answered by members who have actually been here.
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