By Shannon Gomes
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands in Washington state and is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant arts community. Only a 1 hr. Ferry Ride from Anacortes, WA, you will immediately slip into a peaceful state of mind once on the beautiful ferry ride and when you step foot upon the enchanting Orcas Island. It truly is a place like no other, and I strongly encourage you to plan a visit to this wonderful island.
☀️Best time of year to visit?
The most popular time to visit is during the summer months with the warm temperatures and long daylight hours, plus there are many festivals & events during this time. For a quieter time, with far less crowds, consider going in the Fall. September is still a fantastic month for Whale Watching and the Fall foliage makes for beautiful photography and perfect time to hike. The Winter months are typically very wet, so consider a trip in the Spring when wildlife begins to emerge and before the summer crowds arrive.
⛴️ How do you get there?
If you are coming in from out of state, fly in/out of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Upon arrival, rent a car and drive approximately 2 hours north to the town of Anacortes, WA. Be sure to arrive in Anacortes at least 45 minutes before your ferry departs. You will then board the ferry with your car and enjoy the one hour journey to Orcas Island. *Important* Be sure to book your ferry reservations well in advance as the ferries do book up quickly! Go to the official website of Washington State Ferries (WSF), which is the agency responsible for operating the ferries in the region. On the WSF website, navigate to the “Schedules” or “Reservations” section and select the “Anacortes – Orcas Island” route. This will provide you with information about the route, including schedules, reservation availability, and fares.
Again, be sure to book well in advance!
🏠Where to stay?
Orcas Island offers a wide range of places to stay from great campsites, Inns & Cottages, Bed & Breakfasts, Luxury Retreats to great vacation rental homes. We booked a wonderful home through Northwest Island Escapes. Other great options include: Doe Bay Resort and Retreat & Pebble Cove Farm Inn.
🌊Best outdoor activities?
The island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, sailing, fishing to wildlife watching. Moran State Park offers hiking trails, including one leading to the summit of Mount Constitution, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area (you can even see Vancouver, Canada!). If you’re not up for hiking to the summit, an easier method is to drive to the top of Mount Constitution – the views are just specular! I highly recommend going on a 3 hr. kayaking trip with Outer Island Excursions. Perfect way to spend an afternoon, and you will definitely see some incredible wildlife.
🐳 Whale Watching
A must-do activity in the summer and early Fall months is to go Whale Watching. I recommend booking a trip with Outer Island Excursions and don’t forget your binoculars and camera! We saw several Humpback Whales and smaller Bottlenose Whales on our tour. An incredible experience not to be missed.
🎭Arts & Culture Scene
Orcas Island has a thriving arts community with galleries, studios, and craft shops showcasing the work of local artists. The island also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including music festivals and art fairs. Annual Festivals include:
In summertime and early Fall, be sure not to miss the Orcas Island Farmers Market every Saturday in Eastsound where you can find a variety of local produce, crafts and artisan goods.
🍴The Food Scene in Eastsound
Wow! I was blown away by the food scene in the main town of Eastsound. So many delicious spots featuring local produce…I found it to be a true foodie heaven! Here are some of my favorite spots:
Matia – beautiful bar and fantastic food. Be sure order the Sourdough Focaccia with Brown Butter!
Houlme – make reservations in advance – just delicious!
Gertie’s House – best spot for brunch
Brown Bear Baking – for the most delicious pastries and sandwiches
The West Side Kitchen – awesome salads and sandwiches
🍹Best spot for a cocktail?
Be sure not to miss having a drink or two at The Barnacle! Awesome drinks and fantastic nautical vibe.
🍂History of Orcas Island
The island has a rich history, including Native American heritage and early European settlement. The Orcas Island Historical Museums provides great insight into the island’s past.
Orcas Island is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape in a scenic and culturally rich environment. Whether you are traveling as a couple, or with a group of friends or family, its diverse offerings make it an awesome place for outdoor adventurers, foodies, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking to relax and enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
