Curator’s statement
Orcas Island - The moment you drive off the ferry onto this Pacific Northwest getaway in the San Juan Islands, you can feel your whole being relax. You are surrounded by the most magnificent views everywhere you look. There is water all around of course, but there is also Moran State Park with its winding roads leading to the high peak of Mount Constitution. At the center of Orcas is the lovely town of Eastsound with its delightful cafes and shops. There are the different fingers of the island, each adding its own flavor to the local culture. You can completely unwind and relax here simply soaking up the view from a steamy hot tub, or you can go all out with adventure, or ideally you will do a bit of both!
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Where to stay in Orcas Island
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Things to do in Orcas Island
What to Do On Orcas Island
Immerse Yourself in Nature
Orcas Island is home to Moran State Park - 5,424-acres of gorgeous nature that offers camping, five freshwater lakes where you can swim or kayak and more than 30 miles of hiking, bicycling, mountain biking and equestrian trails. An easy hike within the park (or run, if that's your style) is the flat, four mile loop that circles Mountain Lake. The scenery is incredible all the way around. For a longer and more strenuous hike, take the trail from Cascade Lake to the highest point of the park, Mount Constitution which stands 2,407 feet above sea level and marvel at the views in all directions.
Another wonderful place to hike is Turtleback Mountain, which lies on another finger of Orcas. Take the moderate Ships Peak Look trail, three miles climbing 860 feet to stunning views. It's hard not to be in awe of nature as you walk these trails through old growth forest with towering trees or take in the wildflower meadows and pastoral scenes as the trail takes you along the mountain's edge.
Super Cool - Go on a whale watching tour and see one of the most celebrated inhabitants of the area - the magnificent orca whale! Catch a tour from Deer Harbor - best months to see them are from April to October. Sometimes you even see whales on the ferry crossing between Anacortes and Orcas Island.
The terrain on Orcas Island is hilly, so grab an e-bike and explore the island. Discover Orcas Island Pottery, where local artists showcase their work in a magical fairyland setting in the woods by West Beach. On the east side of the island in Olga is Orcas Island Artworks Gallery. Outside you will find whimsical sculptures made from sustainable materials. Step inside to discover the creative work by Orcas Island artists and craftspeople.
Shop in Eastsound for clothing at Olga's or Atelier, unique leather goods at the Orcas Island Leather Store, pick up a new novel at the cozy Darvill's Bookstore, treat yourself to botanically-based skin and body care products at Island Thyme and visit Material Wit for beautiful housewares and handmade jewelry.
For some pampering while you take in splendid views over Cascade Bay, visit the spa at Rosario Resort and Spa. Follow a relaxing treatment with a dip in the indoor therapeutic pool at this historic gem of a place.
Places to eat & drink in Orcas Island
Breakfast
Start your day off grabbing a latte and a baked goodie in Eastsound. The apple, gruyere and sage scone at Brown Bear Baking is something you won't stop dreaming about, as is the amazing lemon blueberry scone at Olga Rising. For a heartier breakfast, make sure to try the New Leaf Cafe at the Outlook Inn.
Lunch
Head down toward the ferry landing and enjoy Alaskan Cod with Island Hoppin Beer Batter & Fries at the iconic and historic ORCAS HOTEL as you soak in views of the Salish Sea. Another great option - snag a seat on the outside deck above the water at MADRONA in Eastsound and savor the pan fried oysters washed down with a glass of local Orcas Wine Company's Sauvignon Blanc.
Cocktails
The Moran Lounge, located in the original living room of the historic Moran Mansion at Rosario Resort is a wonderful place to sip a cocktail as you enjoy a crackling fire on a brisk late summer evening. Another special place to sip on creative craft cocktails is at the intimate Barnacle in Eastsound.
Dinner
There are many fantastic restaurants on Orcas Island to explore. A few suggestions:
The Mansion Restaurant at Rosario Resort & Spa, offering creative seasonal cuisine on the original veranda of the historic mansion. While there step back in time to and peruse the black and white photos that document the creation of Rosario by shipbuilder Robert Morgan.
If you are in the mood for Mexican food, Mijitas in Eastsound is your place. Go in for a mezcal margarita and some delicious Chili Rellenos.
Head to cozy Kingfish Inn on West Beach, and partake in delicious dishes featuring local ingredients sourced primarily from island purveyors.
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Scott Paulis’s guide, From Coffee to Seaplanes: Exploring the Best of Seattle, Washington.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Washington.