Baker from the top of Mt. Orcas Island is not as busy as the other islands … The Village Green There are often community actives taking place in the Village Green in Eastsound village. The Orcas Project is a collaboration between acclaimed Winemakers and Vineyards in the Pacific Northwest, featuring labels designed by Orcas Island Artists. One of the most popular destinations on Orcas Island, Atop the 2,409-foot Mt. Tour of Coffelt Farm on Orcas Island during the "Savor the San Juan's" festivities. Orcas Island visitors to Mount Constitution in Moran State Park enjoy 360 degree views of the San Juan Islands. You can also drive to the top of Moran State Park to see panoramic views of the island and the surrounding mountains. 360/376-4849;www.orcasmuseum.org), which is housed in a collection of six interconnected historic buildings that were moved to the center of Eastsound from locations around the island. Art, activities and agriculture flourish on Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juans. Be sure to grab your FREE Insiders Guide to Amazing Hikes on Orcas Island to see our picks. Scenic views, scratch-made food and handcrafted collectibles. In no particular order, here are the best things to do in Orcas Island. Activities Things To Do on Orcas Island. Things to Do on Orcas Island with Kids If you’re bringing the kids with you on your Orcas Island adventure, there is a lot to keep them busy! Moran State Park is a public recreation area on Orcas Island in Puget Sound's San Juan Islands in the state of Washington, United States. Visit Moran State Park is a 5,579-acre camping park with five freshwater lakes and over 30 miles of hiking trails. Experience the islands by water as you glide silently through the sea. What are the top attractions to visit in Orcas Island? This island is one of the best Seattle weekend getaways that will have you feeling refreshed after. Constitution at Moran State Park, Orcas Island, Washington. We have reviews of the best places to see in Orcas Island. This place is really cool – it’s in a beautiful location and it’s a great place to hang out have a beer and some good seafood. Don't forget to visit this hidden gem on Orcas Island during your next trip! While Seattle is known as the Emerald City, Orcas Island is known as the Emerald Isle. Often called the “gem of the San Juans” with an artisan food culture along with endless outdoor activities, this island has it all! Located on Orcas Island's east side, Moran State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails with varied difficulty levels, but nearly all with fantastic views or unique surroundings. Hikers can expect to see great views of Crow Valley at the lookout while the south trailhead is located just off Deer Harbor Road and fantastic views to the south and west during your hike. Things to Do on an Orcas Island Getaway Hike, Bike, or Drive to the top of Mount Constitution At 2,409 feet (734 m), Mt Constitution is the highest point on the San Juan Islands. We respect your privacy. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Learn more about Obstruction Pass State Park here. Unsubscribe with 1-click at any time. Whether you're interesting in guided excursions like whale watching or kayaking, or exploring as your own guide, you're sure to find a mix of activities you'll enjoy. Watch as bald eagles fly above you and sea lions playfully swim around you. Cascade Lake - Sit for a while near the water to rest and recharge your batteries. Here's a post from this years festival. Kayaking is one of the most popular activities in the Puget Sound, and a … Spend a part of your day relaxing on the local 9-hole golf course. Note: You'll need a Discover Pass for day use at Moran State Park. Starting from the easier hikes, Cascade Lake Loop (2.9 miles) is a relatively flat trail that goes around the beautiful lake and lagoon. Stroll an empty beach, browse in uncrowded shops and indulge in spas, local wines, and delicious cuisine. Things to do Orcas Island has a diverse set of options for visitors and locals looking to enjoy themselves. The Historic Orcas Hotel is just below ferry parking and offers great food and coffee selections. We spent three nights in the city followed by four on the island, an ideal balance for both. Replete with incredible hiking trails and viewpoints, serene lakes and campsites, idyllic forests and gardens, there is no shortage of things to eat, see, and do in the 57 square miles of beauty Orcas has to offer. There are many reasons to love Orcas Island. Of all the things to do in Orcas Island, my absolute favorite is going to the Saturday Markets in the summer. Things to Do in Orcas Island, San Juan Islands: See Tripadvisor's 19,666 reviews & photos of 36 Orcas Island attractions. The Orcas Island “downtown” (also referred to as Eastsound) has adorable shops, bakeries, restaurants that you must visit if taking a trip out there. If you're looking for guided tours, there are several choices available from different guides. Orcas Center. NEXT SUGGESTION:  Insider Tips on our Blogor See What Others Are Saying. We have reviews of the best places to see in Orcas Island. Eastsound serves as the central hub for commerce and civic life on Orcas Island. The best outdoor activities in Orcas Island according to Tripadvisor travelers are: What are the most popular things to do in Orcas Island with kids? Shaped like a giant horseshoe, this destination is one of our favorites. They work hard to offer you a truly memorable experience. Types of things to do in Orcas Island Outdoor Activities (26) Tours (25) Boat Tours & Water Sports (20) Nature & Parks (13) Food & Drink (6) Shopping (6) Museums (6) Sights & Landmarks (5) Spas & Wellness (3) Transportation (2) Fun & Games (2) Nightlife (1) Concerts & Shows (1) Casinos & Gambling (1) Commonly searched for in Orcas Island There, you'll also find trailheads and other day-use features in the park, including a large swim area for public use. Whether this is your first time to the San Juan Islands or you’re a long time resident, taking a private boat tour is the best way to experience the majestic San Juan Islands. Be sure to book well in advance as spaces fill up quickly. A view of Mt. When to Go. From cocktails and brunch to shopping and hikes, this gem has it all. Constitution in Moran State Park. Visit top-rated & … Things to Do in Orcas Island Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juans, is also the most beautiful of the islands. Top recommendations from locals. Kayaking on the freshwater Cascade Lake in Moran State Park (click to enlarge). Sea kayaking is one of the top activities to do at Orcas Island for good reason. Orcas Island Getaway, PO Box 842, Eastsound, WA, 98245. 917 Mt. The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce does a great job providing an updated agenda of what's going on each week around the island. If you're looking for some freshwater activities, Cascade Lake at the entrance of Moran State Park also offers rentals right from the main beach area. Baker Farm (4.8/5), Magic Air Tours Biplane Rides (5/5) Farmers Market at Village Green in Eastsound following the 2014 Summer Solstice Parade. TIP: Orcas Island pairs nicely with a short stay in Seattle. You'll also be able to find a great selection of food vendors offering lunch to help replenish the energy you've used and will need to continue on through the day! If you have time to visit only one island, make it this one. Moran State Park is one of the best state parks to ever visit. Purchases are only available on site, so this is your chance to pick up a bottle or two to bring along on a picnic. From sightseeing to hidden gems, find out what makes the city unique with the help of … Types of Things to Do in Orcas Island Outdoor Activities (26) Tours (25) Boat Tours & Water Sports (20) Nature & Parks (13) Shopping (6) Food & Drink (6) Museums (6) Sights & Landmarks (5) Spas & Wellness (3) Fun & Games (2) Transportation (2) Nightlife (1) Casinos & Gambling (1) Concerts & Shows (1) Commonly Searched For in Orcas Island Whether there's a festival, musician or artist on the island, or other fun things to do, you're sure to know about it through the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce weekly one-page guide to what's happening on Orcas Island. All Rights Reserved. Although it never feels truly overrun, vacation traffic … Things to Do on Orcas Island Located to the north, right in center of the island, the picturesque downtown area of Eastsound is a hubbub of activity, with many opportunities for exploring the small shops, bookstores, cafes, and museums that make this island so special. Orcas Island Winery is located at 2371 Crow Valley Rd, Eastsound, WA 98245, Orcas Island Winery Tasting Room & retail shop. Learn more about the 4th largest State Park in Washington here for more information on activities, history, and maps. A view from the 9-hole Orcas Island Golf Course, A short but challenging course with a pace that is un-rushed. The following can be seen for zip. Food & restaurants. Visit Moran State Park If you never been to Orcas Island before, then one place that you will always hear mentioned, is a place called Moran State Park. Not sure which hike you would like to take? You can find hikes around lakes and waterfalls, as well as old-growth forest as a protective canopy. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands, the Cascade Mountains, and a variety of Canadian and American cities. Patos Island Marine State Park. If you enjoy hiking don't miss Moran State Park on Orcas Island. Here, you'll find maps and routes for cyclists with mileage and turnoffs. Things to do and see in Orcas Island. There are so many great hikes on Orcas Island for visitors to enjoy, it might be hard to fit them all in during your stay. Similar … Things to Do on Orcas Island . Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall - you'll find beautiful sunsets (and sunrises) across the island. Health & wellness. Pictures from various activities during Orcas Island's Fourth of July Holiday Weekend, including the Parade, Fireworks shows and Orcas Fire & Rescue's Pancake Breakfast. There is no admission fee to the Farmers Market, and leashed dogs are always welcomed. If you're a cyclist or mountain biker, check out the great information about riding on Orcas provided by Wildlife Cycles. Performing Arts. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in November. Orcas Island Winery is a boutique family owned and operated winery & vineyard committed to crafting ultra-premium WA state wines - including a wide range of varietals- both red and white. KAYAK OR PADDLE BOARD. At one Historic location on Orcas Island, you'll find hundreds of beautiful works from nearly 40 local Orcas Island Artists that call this place Home. Pick your area, and there's bound to be a guided operation. Island Hoppin' Brewery is the islands first (and only) brewery on Orcas! Helpful Links & Things to Do Whale Watching/Wildlife Tours. Now, we believe Orcas Island to be the best of all the San Juan islands (we might be a little partial), but the other islands of the San Juan archipelago are each unique and have a variety of experiences that are fun for exploring as well. The welcome mat is out year-round in the charming and beautiful San Juan Islands! Beautiful Parks: Moran State Park features an amazing forest, five freshwater lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, and more than 38 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Things to Do. Things to do in Orcas Island. The park is one of the few spots on Orcas Island with access to more than one mile of publicly-owned saltwater shoreline. At the farthest western point or Orcas Island, you'll find Deer Harbor - a hub for all things marine. Go Northwest! Header Image: Observation Tower on Mt. They also offer Harbor Tours, Sunset Cruises and Marine State Park Adventures. Obstruction Pass State Park is an 80-acre camping park on the South end of Orcas Island, south of Moran State Park past the village of Olga. Don’t forget to grab a growler from our home to take so you can bring back your favorite! To learn more about Orcas Island, stop by the interesting little Orcas Historical Museum,181 North Beach Rd. Spectacular Sights on Your Drive to Orcas Island, 2016 Fourth of July Holiday Weekend on Orcas Island, Reservations for Spring Ferry Sailings (Mar 20, 2016 - Jun 11, 2016 Available Tomorrow @ 7AM, Exploring one of the Hidden Gems of Orcas Island, Savor the San Juans - Orcas Island Farm Tour 2015. If you decide to camp on the island, many trail heads are close by the state park campsites. Each April, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival takes place where visitors can visit hundreds of acres of tulip fields. Sightseeing & landmarks. There are five camping areas, with 150 camp sites between them. Whale watching tours are very popular in the spring and summer. Wildlife Cycles also offer a nice selection of bikes for rent and are also a great repair shop (speaking from experience) should you need service of your own bike while on the island. Parks & nature. Be sure to stop by the Doe Bay Wine Company's bottle shop in the heart of Eastsound Village. E-mail. Here, you'll find local organic produce, crafts, art, jewelry, clothing, pottery for sale - all of which is grown or crafted by Orcas farmers and artisans. The North Trailhead is located on Crow Valley Road. Sign up with your email address to receive specials and updates from Orcas Island Getaway. There is a practice range and even the ability to have swing lessons by appointment. Orcas Island Pottery. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in November. With a stay in one of our Orcas Island vacation homes, you can simply get away and relax or you can take part in the exciting island adventures waiting outside your front door. *With your direct supervision, they are a family and dog friendly winery! Baker Road, PO Box 567, Eastsound, WA 98245. Water activities are always a hit around the islands, with such beautiful scenery and so many protected coves. A half-mile trail leads visitors from the parking area to the campground and beach access. And, the views are fantastic! Things To Do On Orcas Island Posted on . photo by Dave Dean. Visit top-rated & … Rent kayaks, bikes, power or sail boats, or take whale/wildlife tours right from Deer Harbor Marina. A view from Mt. Visit their tasting room, specially curated retail shoppe, modern farmhouse and scenic grounds nestled at the base of Turtleback Mountain. In addition to charter boats and whale watching, tourists can … Just look for the "Purchase Discover Pass" sign. Being dog owners ourselves, we knew that when we started offering our home to guests as a vacation rental, we'd provide an opportunity for them to bring their pups too. If you like great food, reading, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, shopping, sailing camping, fishing, lounging on the beach or near a lake then Orcas is the vacation for you! Finding dog-friendly accommodations can be tough. There are many San Juan Islands to choose from, but this one is truly a gem. For instance, on Saturdays (May-September) you can visit the Farmers Market from 10am-3pm. You can find hikes around lakes and waterfalls, as well as old-growth forest as a protective canopy. Orcas Island Golf Course welcomes all to play and even has a great selection of golf club rentals (Callaway or Top-Flite) if you didn't bring yours to the island. Visit the towns, hamlets and villages on the three main islands—Lopez, Orcas and San Juan—all decked in holiday lights. Patrons visiting the Farmers Market @ Eastsound Village Green. Phone: 360-376-2813. Bars & nightlife. Orcas Island Nature & Wildlife Orcas Island Art Scene This post covers what you'll need to know about seasons, making reservations and helpful links to make your travel smooth. more, Things to Do in Orcas Island, WA - Orcas Island Attractions. Orcas Island, along with San Juan and Lopez islands, are ideal for wine enthusiasts with the opportunity to sip local wines. Passes can be purchased for $10/day or $30/year, and Moran State Park has automated pay stations at the entrance. Views on the trail from the parking area down to the beach at Obstruction Pass State Park. The top attractions to visit in Orcas Island are: What are the best outdoor activities in Orcas Island? Hiking is one of the best things to do on Orcas Island. Join them for Island Hopping, Fishing, Crabbing and Private Wildlife Tours. Check out our full post and information at the link below: Insider Tips for Amazing Sunsets on Orcas Island. From camping to boutique hotels, there are plenty of different things to do on Orcas Island. Book your tickets online for the top things to do in Orcas Island, Washington on Tripadvisor: See 4,464 traveller reviews and photos of Orcas Island tourist attractions. 338 Old Pottery Road, Eastsound, WA 98245. Orcas comes alive in the warm summer months. Cafe in Orcas Island Rose's Bakery & Cafe Go where the locals go for fresh baked goods and French-influenced dishes like baked eggs with Gruyère, pain perdu (French toast) or a thick slab of homemade whole-wheat bread … Stop by the brewery to sample one of their several beers on tap, available in pints or taster flights. The most popular things to do in Orcas Island with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Hotels near (SEA) Seattle-Tacoma Intl Airport, Boat Tours & Water Sports in Orcas Island, See all attractions in Orcas Island on Tripadvisor, See all outdoor activities in Orcas Island on Tripadvisor, See all kid friendly things to do in Orcas Island on Tripadvisor. Kayak Rentals are available in several areas of the Island, including the popular location on the picturesque Crescent Beach and Cascade Lake in Moran State Park. Discover Orcas Island things to do as you plan your getaway to The Salish Seaside Escapes. Constitution, the highest point on the San Juan Islands, there stands a stone observation tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936. Book your tickets online for the top things to do in Orcas Island, Washington on Tripadvisor: See 4,464 traveller reviews and photos of Orcas Island tourist attractions. Turtleback Mountain Preserve is located on Orcas Island's west side, and has 2 locations where trailheads begin. Located on Orcas Island's east side, Moran State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails with varied difficulty levels, but nearly all with fantastic views or unique surroundings. Ferry reservations for summer sailings almost here. Constitution and the observation tower. You can explore Orcas Village while you're waiting at the ferry terminal, and be sure to take back that souvenir to remind you to come back and visit! From September 15 through May 15, many hiking trails in Moran State Park are opened for mountain biking. North Shore Charters has over 25 years experience and an extensive knowledge of the San Juan Archipelago. Each spring, travelers to the San Juan Islands pass by some of the most amazing sights around, sometimes without even realizing it. There are several shops, restaurants, and gift shops available for you to visit if you have some time back at Orcas Village while waiting for your scheduled ferry sailing. © 2015-2021 Orcas Island Getaway, LLC. Patos Island is the northernmost of all the San Juan islands. Three resident pods of orcas live in the waters around the San Juan Islands and many transient orcas… Whether you plan your trips minute-by-minute, or allow spontaneity to help guide your path, here are some helpful resources during your trip to Orcas Island. The San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau has a listing of 3 highly-rated tour operators here on Orcas Island - click on the button below for more information. Moran Park is an amazing place for kids to run around the trails on the lakes, or climb trees, and if the weather allows, canoe around the lakes. Some include: the Ferry Landing, North Beach, Rosario, Doe Bay and Deer Harbor, just to name a few. Reviews on Things to Do in Orcas Island, WA - San Juan Island Zip Tour (4.8/5), Outer Island Expeditions (4.3/5), Moran State Park (4.5/5), Western Prince Whale Watching (4.9/5), Orcas Island Pottery (4.7/5), Orcas Island Winery (4.5/5), The Whale Museum (4.0/5), Orcas Island Trail Rides (4.6/5), Mt. This topic is so popular, we wrote a blog post a couple years ago with some of our favorite spots to catch sunsets here on Orcas Island. During the summer, the Sugar Shack offers hot dogs, drinks and espresso as well as ice cream cones. Like a Biergarten on the bay We visited for lunch while touring Orcas Island and we are sure glad we did! The beach is unique to the area as it's a stretch of fine gravel pockets as opposed to most of the islands rocky shoreline. The horseshoe-shaped island is a magical mix of lush forest, farm valleys, placid lakes and stunning mountains, all wrapped around a beautiful fjord. Here are a few of our guests. On your next visit to Orcas Island, be sure to head over to the east side of the island where you'll find an impressive collection of work by locals artists at The Orcas Island Artworks Gallery. Orcas Island Winery hosts a tasting room that serves nine different varietals. Shopping. Here, you'll find a curated selection of wines with friendly and educational service on your selections. Kayak during sunset, moonlight, on the lakes or to the outer islands. (tel. The San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau has information on the other nearby islands if you're venturing off to San Juan Island or Lopez. Here are some of our top things to do during a weekend getaway. Hike Cascade Falls All the lakes in Moran State Park allow fishing and swimming. You'll surely share a few laughs with owners, Wesley and Tera Landman, too. Free Things to Do in Orcas Island Taking a break in Orcas Island on a budget? Take your time to stroll through town, taking the amazing waterfront views (Eastsound Waterfront Park) and enjoy the local shops, bakeries, restaurants and artists galleries while enjoying the laid-back pace of this small island town. Travel to the San Juan Islands has become much more convenient with the introduction of the new Ferry reservation system. P.S. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands of the Pacific Northwest, which are located in the northwestern corner of Washington state in San Juan County, Washington, United States.