14 Incredible Things to Do on Orcas Island in Washington State

Orcas Island is by far one of of my favorite Washington getaways! On this trip you’ll get to visit the iconic San Juan Islands, hike to some of Washingtons most epic viewpoints, and get a taste of the local cuisine, which is phenomenal. Plus the accommodation options range from beautiful budget campsites to luxury boutique hotels! All in all, there’s truly something for everyone and it’s a perfect getaway if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend with access to the ocean and mountains.

In this detailed guide, you’ll find all of the best things to do on Orcas Island. From sea kayaking in the summer to the best hikes to do in winter, there are a plethora of things to do no matter what season you visit. Are you ready to head to Orcas? Let’s go!

Read Next:

• 20 Best Things to Do on Vashon Island
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• Perfect Road Trip Planning Guide
• Car Camping: The Ultimate Guide

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Where is the Orcas Island?

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago in the Pacific Northwest that consists of four islands accessible by car or foot traffic on ferry! There are however 175 points of land in the archipelago, but Orcas, San Juan, Lopez, and Shaw are the most populated. Orcas Island is the largest island in the archipelago with four state parks to explore and countless attractions to visit. It’s located off the western coast of Washington State in the Haro Strait with a population of 4,500. There’s a lot to see on the island so let’s start planning!

How to get to Orcas Island

Seaplane and ferry are the only options of transportation for getting on and off Orcas Island. I highly recommend taking the ferry from Anacortes and bringing your car so that you have the availability to get around the island when you’re there; it’s also the cheaper option of the two. You can find the ferry schedule at the Washington State Department of Transportation website.

The spots tend to fill up quickly in spring and summer so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time! If you plan on traveling to Orcas Island on a week, I highly recommend making a reservation no matter what time of year you visit. It’s a good way to ensure that you’ll have a spot on the ferry and won’t have to wait in the standby line. Secure your ferry reservation here! Please note that the ferry reservation is not your fare. You will have to pay for a roundtrip ticket once you get to the Anacortes ferry terminal.

If the ferry is going from Anacortes to Orcas Island then your trip will take 65 minutes. The ferry could make short stops at either Shaw Island or Lopez Island when heading to or from Orcas Island. This adds some time to the trip and can take around 80-90 minutes. When on the ferry, don’t forget to pop up to the observation deck to take in the views and breathe the fresh salt air!

Kenmore Air does have a private seaplane flight that leaves from departure locations airports near Seattle and lands right on Orcas Island. It’s more expensive than taking the ferry, but it’s an experience you won’t forget! Once you land on Orcas Island, you’ll need to reserve a rental car to get around. More details on that below.

How to get around Orcas Island

My recommended way of getting around the island is by car. The island is not walkable and there isn’t a transportation system on the island. There is the Orcas Island Shuttle that stops at the island’s most popular locations, but it’s on the pricier side at $40+ for a day pass. If you want the flexibility and freedom to do and see what you want on the island then I recommend bringing the car over by ferry! Or you can rent a car once you get onto the island.

When should you visit?

Summer is the most beautiful season in Washington State and the best time to be on Orcas Island. This season ranges from July through the beginning of September. It’s Washington’s dryer season so you can expect warm weather and a good island breeze. The summer season is also the busiest time of year for every town in Washington State. The tourists start piling onto the ferry and heading to this beautiful island to see the whales migrate north and enjoy activities out on the water. It’s truly a magical time of year to visit!

Spring and Fall are considered the shoulder seasons for Orcas Island. The shoulder season is from Late-May through June for spring and Mid-September through October for fall. Personally, this is my favorite time of year to visit the island because there are less crowds and more availability for accommodations during this time. The weather can range from sunny to overcast during this time, but if you’re prepared with the right gear then you should have a wonderful time!

Winter or the low season is from November through April. I visited the island at the beginning of March and we experienced the quintessential Pacific Northwest weather with a light drizzle and overcast skies. The island is quieter during this time, which is nice when making reservations at restaurants or accommodations. It’s a great time to getaway if you’re looking for a quiet and serene vacation. Like most of Western Washington, it’s very rare to see snow on Orcas Island.

14 Incredible Things to Do on Orcas Island

Take a Hike

Hiking is a fun and free way to get outdoors on Orcas Island! There are four state parks on the island full of waterfalls, rivers, and expansive viewpoints. You can enjoy hiking during all four seasons, but be prepared with the 10 Essentials for hiking safely! The 10 essentials are survival items you should bring on every hiking trip. Here are my favorite hikes on Orcas Island!

Turtleback Mountain

Turtleback Mountain Preserve has multiple hikes available to do, but this hike is my personal favorite. It’s a 6-mile hike with 1,322 feet in elevation gain that gives beautiful views of San Juan Island, the Haro Strait, and the Olympic Mountain Range. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but must be on a leash.

Cascade Falls and Rustic Falls

This short 0.8-mile loop trail with 134 feet in elevation gain is the perfect trail for a family. It takes around 22 minutes to complete and you’ll view the rushing Cascade Falls on this hike. It’s a gorgeous hike to get the legs moving! Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed.

Mt. Constitution from Mountain Lake

You can drive up Mt. Constitution, but you’ll learn more about that below. Here you’ll find the details on how to hike to Mt. Constitution. It’s an 8-mile hike with 1,738 feet in elevation gain. If you choose to hike, it will take about 4 hours to complete and you’ll be rewarded with expansive views and might even see Mt. Baker in the distance! Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.

Obstruction Pass

This hike takes you to a beach where you can lounge or explore the tide pools. It’s a quick and easy 1.4-mile loop that has 232 feet of elevation and takes about 40 minutes to complete. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed.

Ship Peak

If you’re looking for a quick hike that has beautiful views then this is the one you’ll take. Just 3 miles with 900 feet of elevation gain, you’ll start climbing up the lollipop from the South Trailhead up to Ship Peak and then loop back down. If you want to keep going and make it to the summit then follow the Turtleback Mountain South Trail.

Mountain Lake

This 4.1-mile hike with 347 feet in elevation gain loops around Mountain Lake and is the perfect trail for a easy walk.

Get Out On The Water

There are so many activities on Orcas Island that get you out on the water! You have the option to choose between heading out on a lake or taking on the ocean. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always going to be an option to get out on the water so let’s get into it!

Kayaking

You have the opportunity to kayak with Orcas when you’re on the island! People travel thousands of miles to experience kayaking in this region. San Juan Outfitters has a phenomenal sea kayak tour that offers views of marine wildlife, rugged coastline, and snow covered mountains. Some marine wildlife you might view are orca whales, seals, sea lions, eagles, and more. You can choose between a 3-hour tour or a 5-hour tour that leaves from Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor. A multi-day tour is available as well.

Sailing

Deer Harbor Charters has a 2-hour sunset sail that accommodates 6 guests. You can choose between relaxing on the boat or helping the captain and crew set sail! Either way, there’s no experience needed and it’s a fabulous way to spend the evening on the water. They also have longer tours to choose from if you want to stay out on the water for a few more hours.

Paddle Boarding

If you’re looking to do a paddle-board tour or get a 24-hour rental, check out SUP Orcas! This rental company has options for the entire family and it’s a great way to get out on the water. Head to Deer Harbor to pick up your board or get them delivered for $50!

Go Whale Watching

The San Juan islands are known for being able to view whales, sea lions, and seals from land. Viewing sea animals from land creates the least amount of impact on these animals habitat so they are able to enjoy their home without the noise pollution from boat engines being close by. The best place to view whales from land on Orcas Island is Lime Kiln Point State Park. Bring a picnic blanket, your binoculars, and relax while you look for whales during the afternoon. You can see orcas, humpback, and minke whales from Orcas Island and the best time to catch a glimpse is from June to September.

If you’re convinced that you need to view whales and wildlife from a boat, check out Deer Harbor Charters! This team has been operating since 1988 and follow a “responsible wildlife viewing method”. Their private and public tours leave from Deer Harbor and Rosario resort.

Swim in a Lake

Orcas Island has two freshwater lakes that you can recreate in. Cascade Lake and Mountain Lake are both located in Moran State Park with plenty of activities to do.

• Cascade Lake: This lake is the most popular lake in Moran State Park. The Day Use Area can be used for swimming and picnics on the shore. There are three campgrounds located at the northern, midway, and southern sections of the lake, which has primitive camping, RV camping, and glamping options. Orcas Adventures offers row boat, canoe, paddle board, and kayak rentals close by the lake. There’s so much to do here!
• Mountain Lake: This is the largest lake in Moran State Park. It’s located 900 ft. up Mount Constitution and surrounded by one of the best hikes in the park – Mountain Lake Loop Trail. There’s a campground located right on the lake that fits RVs, trailers, and tents. If you’re looking to rent rowboats, kayaks, and canoes check out Orcas Adventures for Mountain Lake rentals. Be aware that these rentals need to be reserved in advance.

Check Out Buck Bay Shellfish Farm

If you’re visiting in summer, please visit the Buck Bay Shellfish Farm! The Pacific Northwest is known for having some of the best oysters in the world and Buck Bay has them fresh on the farm. They also offer Dungeness crab, spot prawns, local caught fish, and other seasonal seafood. Grab a glass of wine or beer and head over to the farm to shuck some oysters with friends and family! Check business hours online before you plan your trip to Buck Bay Shellfish Farm.

Visit Obstruction Pass State Park

Obstruction Pass State Park is a 76-acre state park that is south of Orcas Island and Moran State Park. If you’re looking for a less crowded state park on Orcas Island this is the one you should go to! There is a beautiful public beach on the park with with picnic tables and views of East Sound Bay. Keep your eyes open or bring your binoculars in case you see some whales out there! If you’re interested in primitive camping, there are 10 first-come, first-served campsites located at the south end of the park. Please note: There is no potable water at the park. It is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out location. Brush up on your Leave No Trace Principles before you go.

Head to Mount Constitution

Robert Moran was the mayor of Seattle from 1888 and 1890 and retired on Orcas Island in 1906. In 1914, Robert Moran donated 5,000 acres to the State of Washington and a portion of that was used to create Moran State Park. Mount Constitution is located in the center of this park and is the highest point in the San Juan Islands National Monument. The adventure, the views, and the history make this monument one of Orcas Islands most cherished attractions.

Mount Constitution can be accessed by car on Mt Constitution Road, which is open annually. You can hike trails to the summit of Mount Constitution if you’re feeling like a challenge (hiking recommendations are above). If it’s a clear day, you can see views of Mount Rainier across the sound, Mount Baker, and the Olympic Peninsula. At the top you will find an observation tower that was built in 1936 so that visitors can see birds-eye view of the Puget Sound. I highly recommend heading over there if you’re on the island!

Drive Along The Orcas Islands Scenic Byway

The Orcas Island Scenic Byway is a 2-3 hour self-guided tour that showcases all of the island’s must-see spots! There are 13 stops along the scenic byway, which include a lot of the recommendations on this blog post. You can find the map of this self-guided tour of the Visit San Juans website. It starts with arriving to Orcas Island from the ferry landing and loops around the horseshoe shape of Orcas Island. Take your time driving around the island and soak up all there is to see!

Scope Out Local Art & Pottery

There are a lot of talented artists located on Orcas Island. The beauty of this area has inspired creators for a long time and continues to be a popular destination for those who appreciate art. Some of my favorite pieces of pottery have come from Orcas Island so grab yourself a souvenir at one of the stops below!

• Orcas Island Pottery: This has to be my favorite pottery shop on the island. Orcas Island Pottery has been operating on the island since 1945. Their clay was dug from the banks in the ocean and used to create their pieces. Orcas Island Pottery is owned by the same family since 1953 and is now in the hands of 4th generation potters.
• Crow Valley Pottery:
• Artworks: This gallery was built in 1938 as a strawberry barreling plant and is now restored as a local art gallery. You’ll find a large collection

Peruse Eastsound Village

Eastsound is where you’ll find all of the Orcas Island boutique shops, coffee shops, eateries, book stores, and other local businesses. It’s located in the middle of the island, perched above Fishing Bay just 15 minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the perfect town to grab happy hour or dinner at once you’ve finished hiking to Mt. Constitution or Turtleback Mountain!

This quaint village has a good amount of history to explore! Walk around the village and admire all of the historic homes that were built in 1880. If you’re interested in learning more on the history of Orcas Island, head to the Orcas Island Historical Museum to view more artifacts. The museum is housed in six original homestead cabins the were built between 1870-1890, which is super cool!

Eastsound Village loves to showcase local talent in the galleries around town. You can find paintings, wood sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and photography on display at various galleries including the Crow Valley Gallery, Forest Ceramic Gallery, and Peter Fisher Gallery. Stop by a gallery to see what these artists are creating!

If you want to buy a souvenir from your trip I highly recommend supporting local businesses. Darvill’s Bookstore is the perfect spot for a bookworm! Grab a new book to read on your trip or grab a coffee at the coffee shop inside. It’s a good stop in town. Another great local shop is Girl Meets Dirt. You can find the storefront and production facility located right in Eastsound! They’re known for their delicious jams, which I frequently use for my charcuterie boards. Definitely stop in!

If you’re in town from May to September then you should visit the Orcas Island Farmers Market! This market happens every Saturday during the summer and features great products from local vendors on the island. It’s not a big farmers market, but it’s one to visit if you have a moment to walk around.

Check Out a Local Farm

Washington is known for having the best farm stands. Orcas Island has farm stands and farmers markets that are worth stopping by to grab some local bread, cheeses, meats, or vegetables. It’s a great way to get to know the local community and support small businesses!

Little Island Chic Farm Stand

This is a small family run farm stand located in Olga on Orcas Island. You’ll find eggs, berries, vegetables, and flowers at this stand! If you’re lucky there might be some baked goods to take home too. Definitely stop by!

Lum Farm on Coffelt Farm Preserve

Head over to this farm stand from Thursday’s to Saturdays. Here you’ll find meat, goat cheese, produce, and other wool products. Other local farmers sell their items at the stand as well. There’s a gift shop at the stand if you’re wanting to grab a souvenir.

Orca Song Farm

Have you ever visited a botanical farm? This farm is rich with lavender fields and botanical gardens. Stop in the gift shop and support the farm by buying a candle or some hand soap. The gift shop is only open during the summer so be sure to check their website for up to date schedules.

Relax at The Spa

Sometimes a day at the spa is exactly what you need to relax and recharge. Orcas Island has a few phenomenal resorts with spa treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed. Practice some self-care at the resorts below:

• Doe Bay Resort: Doe Bay has one of the best spa experiences on the island. They offer communal and private rental options of their hot tubs and sauna. The hot tubs look over Doe Bay and offer a tranquil environment for their guests. Yoga is available at the resort for regular on-site classes and private practice. There are props and mats available for use and classes are $10.
• Rosario Resort & Spa: The spa at Rosario Resort is luxury. It’s located in the historic Moran Mansion and has beautiful views of Cascade Bay. There’s a whirlpool onsite, an indoor therapeutic pool, weight room, and more. The indoor pool is adults only. Check out their menu for spa treatments such as facials and massages! Rosario Resort also offers yoga classes on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sip Some Local Wine

Orcas Island Winery is located on the most beautiful property with a wine garden experience, modern farmhouse tasting room, vineyard, and more. It was established in 2011 and is the only winery on Orcas Island. It’s locally owned by Tera Andaya and Wesley Landman and you’ll find their dog Winston too! We personally got to meet Winston and he was the sweetest winery pup. The winery owns 16 acres of land and you’re able to enjoy the fresh air by bringing your own picnic or grabbing one of their picnic blankets, baskets, and food that’s available in the tasting room. It’s a great place to visit for the afternoon!

In Eastsound Village you can find a small wine shop by the name of Doe Bay Wine Company. The shop is owned by Cole Sisson and opened in 2017. There’s a tasting room inside the shop and offers tastings of wine, beer, and cider. If you’d like a little cheese to pair with your drinks you can order a charcuterie board too! It’s another great spot to enjoy the afternoon with friends sipping wine and snacking on good food.

Drink a Craft Brew

If wine isn’t your thing then you should check out Island Hoppin’ Brewery! This is the first and only microbrewery on Orcas Island and has been operating under Jim Parker, Nate Schons, and Becca Schons since 2012. What makes this brewery special is that each batch of beer is made with local and high quality ingredients, bringing you the best glass of craft beer you can get. Grab a pint or flight of their rotating brews while you’re on the island! And if they have a local food truck, definitely pair your brew with a bite to eat. Cheers!

Best Restaurants on Orcas Island

• Tidepool Coffeehouse – Fun little coffee shop
• Brown Bear Baking – Best bakery on the island! Owned by the cutest couple.
• Island Skillet – Good breakfast spot in Eastsound
• Doe Bay Cafe – Best breakfast on the island!
• Voyager – Great lunch spot for sandwiches
• Hogstone’s Wood Oven – Yummiest pizza in town
• Monti – Upscale Italian restaurant
• The Barnacle – Creative cocktail bar served in a small house
• Clever Cow Creamery – Amazing ice cream spot!

Where to Stay on Orcas Island

There are plenty of places to stay on Orcas Island! The campsites are stunning and the boutique hotels have everything you could want. Here are my recommendations for places to stay on the island:

• Camping Accommodations:
  • Doe Bay Resort Campsites – I stayed at a drive-in campsite at Doe Bay Resort while on Orcas Island. I loved the site and the community at Doe Bay! They also have a bathhouse where you can shower and get ready. Highly recommend!
  • Doe Bay Resort Yurts & Domes – If you’re looking for a more luxury style camping experience I recommend trying one of the Yurts & Domes at Doe Bay.
  • Moran State Park Campsites – The campsites at Moran State Park are right on a lake next to some of the best hikes on the island.
  • Ravensong Refuge Hipcamp – Another great camping option is to get a Hipcamp on the island.
• Lodging Accommodations:
  • Doe Bay Resort – Doe Bay has cabins on the property with varying levels of comfort from Rustic Cabins with little amenities to Deluxe Cabins with full bathrooms and kitchenettes; group cabins are also available.
  • Outlook Inn – This Inn is on my bucket-list. It’s located right on the bay of Eastsound and is probably one of the most beautiful resorts on the island.
  • Rosario Resort & Spa – Rosario is another gorgeous resort on the island. It’s located on the water with restaurants and a spa on the property.

What to Pack for Orcas Island

Below you’ll find the essentials I pack with me when I go on a trip in the Pacific Northwest. I’ll provide recommendations for both women and men so everyone is included in this list! It’s important to be prepared for your trip to the Pacific Northwest and dressing right ensures you stay warm no matter what the weather throws at you. Check out my in depth blog post on the 10 Essentials for Hiking Safely and don’t forget to read the Leave No Trace Principles!

Gloves

I bring gloves with me everywhere I go in Washington. The weather in summer is very nice, but every other season can be a little unpredictable. It’s good to keep a pair of gloves on you so your hands don’t get cold!

Beanie or Toboggan

Another article of clothing I keep close by is a beanie or toboggan. A beanie provides warmth for your ears and it’s a classic Pacific Northwest look. Definitely bring one for all four seasons!

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket is your best friend in the Pacific Northwest. You never know if a cloud might come in and start sprinkling rain on you. It’s always good to keep a small rain jacket on hand so you don’t have to reschedule your activities and can keep exploring!

Warm Thermal

If you need another layer under your rain jacket, a 1/4 zip is the perfect piece to add underneath it. My husband and I have both pieces below and we absolutely love them. They’re a perfect hiking layer and easy to take on and off.

Down Jacket

A down jacket is a Pacific Northwest essential. Even in summer, the days may be warm, but the evenings tend to have a little chill to them. Grab one of these for your trip!

Hiking Boots

If you plan to hike on the island you’ll want a pair of waterproof hiking boots. My husband, Matt, and I are in love with Altra Running Hiking Boots. We always come back to these boots and haven’t switched brands for years.

Hiking Backpack

A day pack is great to have when you’re out hiking too. These are useful to carry your water, snacks, and 10-essentials when hiking. Depending on the length of the hike you might be able to get by with a hip pack, but I recommend investing in a good day pack for your travels.

Water Bottle

Don’t forget your reusable water bottle! It’s easy to fill up your water bottle on the island and I highly recommend having one on hand with you.

Facts About Orcas Island

1. Orcas Island is one of four islands in the San Juan archipelago.
2. It’s the largest island in the archipelago!
3. Mount Constitution is the highest point in the San Juans at 2,409 feet.
4. You can see British Columbia at various viewpoints all over the island.
5. Dall’s porpoise, whales, seals, sea lions, otters, and various fish live in the waters of the San Juans. They could pop up at any time so keep your eyes peeled for a pod of Orcas!

Final Thoughts on Orcas Island

I’m definitely going back to Orcas Island so I highly recommend taking this trip! It’s a nice relaxing weekend with a mix of getting outdoors and treating yourself. The best of the both worlds when you’re looking to take a short vacation. Let me know if you have any questions and leave a comment below!

Looking for other adventure itineraries in the Seattle area? Check out what I planned for the perfect day on Vashon Island or this epic Olympic Peninsula road trip itinerary!