35 Things To Do on Orcas Island
Orcas Island has all of the ingredients for a perfect getaway in the Pacific Northwest. There are beautiful lodging options, miles of hiking trails that traverse a rich topography and offer stunning views. You’ll find a plethora of fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and locally-crafted libations.
This isn’t the destination for a fast-paced dance club, though you will find several restaurants and bars host live music nights. But the things to do on Orcas Island abound. Artist studios. Golfing. Farmers markets. Clothing optional soaking tubs. The list goes on and on. These are some of our favorites.
Getting to Orcas Island
There are just two ways to get to Orcas Island — boat or plane. Flying is undoubtedly the fastest (and doesn’t require waiting in long lines). Daily flights are available from Boeing Field to Eastsound Airport. Seasonal seaplane flights are also provided from Kenmore and Lake Union to Deer Harbor, West Sound, and Rosario Resort.
As an added bonus, take advantage of our hotel package. Book your airfare and lodging together and save! Plus score some fabulous perks, like hand-crafted mugs and a dining credit at one of the island’s best restaurants — New Leaf Café.
Orcas Island Outdoor Adventures
1. Hike at Turtleback Mountain Preserve
Located on the west side of Orcas Island, Turtleback Mountain is one of the most popular hiking places. It spans 1,578 acres and features roughly nine miles of trails.
The two primo parking areas are located at the south and north trailheads, offering easy access to a sprawling network of pathways. While there’s something to be said for a view from the summit, the best lookout is arguably found along the Ship Peak Loop. A three-mile jaunt with roughly 850 feet of elevation gain, it offers a stunning outlook of the water and shoreline.
2. Visit the Summit of Mount Constitution
The Mount Constitution summit is a must-visit, especially on a clear day. Cresting at 2,410 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the San Juan Islands. For those looking to test their physical fitness, the 6.6-mile loop trail to the top features 1,500 feet in elevation gain and stunning views of the surrounding area. This is the most challenging hike on the island.
But those who aren’t ready to pound dirt are also in luck. Unlike many mountaintops that can only be accessed by foot, visitors can also bike and drive to the summit!
3. Explore Obstruction Pass State Park
Located at the southern tip of Orcas’ eastside, Obstruction Pass State Park is a 76-acre shoreline park that offers exceptional views, hiking trails, and picnic spots. It’s generally accessed by passing through Moran State Park and offers unique camping experiences. Just be warned, campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t assume you will score one.
4. Play a Round at Orcas Island Golf
A public golf course, Orcas Island Golf is located just outside of Eastsound. It features three different types of water hazards throughout the course, including a lake, three ponds, and a stream. Despite being a nine-hole golf course, it can feel like an 18-hole course thanks to the additional sets of tees found at each hole.
5. Savor the View at Judd Cove Preserve
Despite being one of the few public waterfront beaches on Orcas Island, Judd Cove Preserve is coveted by locals as a bit of a ‘hidden’ gem. The 12-acre easement features 1,250 feet of saltwater shoreline — making it an idyllic spot to explore tide pools, picnic, and savor the views.
6. Explore the Sea on a Kayak Adventure
While exploring on land is amazing, getting out on the water offers an entirely new perspective. It allows you to see shoreline you wouldn’t see otherwise see. There are several different guided kayak tours on Orcas, which allow you to go with an experienced guide who can tell you about the unique habitat.
7. Go Whale Watching
Planning an adventure to go whale watching in Seattle is typically an all-day trek aboard a whale watching boat departing from Elliott Bay. But when you’re looking for fun things to do on Orcas Island, you can fit in whale watching and additional activities because you’re already right by the Salish Sea.
In addition to Orcas, gray whales, humpback whales, and mike whales, you may see seals, sealines, porpoises, bald eagles, and more!
8. Take a Fishing Charter
Fishermen tend to be protective of their favorite spots, which is what makes a fishing charter so unique. Fishing charter captains share their favorite places to catch crabs, spot prawns, salmon, halibut, long cod, and other bottom fish.
9. Explore the Outer Islands by Water Taxi
Private boats, ferries, and planes aren’t the only way to island-hop. The San Juan Islands Water Taxi ferries walk-on passengers throughout the three main islands – Orcas, San Juan, Lopez – and the smaller destinations – Sucia Island, Patos and Matia Island.
10. Visit Cascade Falls
Beneath a canopy of Douglas fir, a fresh-water creek tumbles through a sun-dappled first grove, cascading down a 40-foot rock cliff. ‘Trekking’ to this beautiful sight is far from an all-day endeavor (unless you choose to make it such). You can reach Cascade Falls in as little as a half-mile round trip!
11. Go for a Bike Ride
Biking on Orcas Island isn’t for the faint of heart. In fact, it can be a rather thigh-burning challenge, thanks to the geographically diverse terrain. Luckily, an e-bike can turn any grueling excursion into a relatively leisurely adventure. And with so many stunning sights to see on two wheels, renting a bike and spending the day touring at your own pace is a can’t-miss opportunity.
Discover the Best Orcas Island Bike Routes
12. Soak in a Private Hot Tub with a View
Located just outside of Olga on Orcas Island, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is a secluded getaway located on the east end of the island. The lodging accommodations are on the rustic side, often including shared bathrooms that require a fresh air walk. But the views are exquisite, especially when savored from a private hot tub.
The soaking tubs are reserved for those staying at Doe Bay. If you want check our the resort without taking a dip, Doe Bay’s seed-to-table restaurant makes scrumptious, seasonal food.
13. Cascade Lake
Cascade Lake is the most popular mountain lake on Orcas Island – thanks to the campground located right on its shoreline. There are kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals available.
14. Mountain Lake
Though equally beautiful, Mountain Lake is slightly more remote. Rentals are available on this lake too. And it’s the location of the Mt. Constitution trailhead if you want to make the full trek to the top.
15. Take a Trail Ride with Orcas Island Trail Rides
While there are a wide variety of ways to explore Orcas Island, sitting astride a horse may well be one of the best. Trail rides with Orcas Island Trail Rides allow you to see hidden gems throughout the island.
16. Meet Farm Animals
Do you and your family love animals? The Once In a Blue Moon Farm and Lodging offers an idyllic way to meet pigs, ducks, goats, and more!
17. Discover Hidden Gems with Salish Seacrets Adventures
Do you love the idea of an intimate, personalized tour of the San Juan Islands? Salish Seacrets Adventures was founded by two locals who share their expertise of the islands and let you get a taste for what island life is really like.
18. Watch the Sun Set
Sunsets here are other worldly. And while no single island in the San Juans surpasses another, Orcas Island sunset locations do boast the tallest peak (Mount Constitution) and most convenient ‘town’ access (North Beach).
Top Places to Eat on Orcas Island
19. Brunch at New Leaf Cafe
At the helm of Outlook Inn’s New Leaf Café — Chef Andrew Martin’s brunch menu promises to be a scrumptious affair worthy of a celebration. (Brunch resumes March 15, 2024.) Indulgences like Chef Martin’s twist on a BLT made on hearth bread and smothered in smoked tomato jam is a consistent crowd pleaser.
20. Hyper-Season Fare at MATIA
Recognized by New York Times food columnist J. Kenji López-Alt for its hyper-seasonal fare, MATIA’s menu is crafted the previous night based on what’s available locally. Reservations are strongly recommended, as this foodie destination is quite popular.
21. Learn to Shuck Oysters at Buck Bay Shellfish Farm
If you like seafood, Buck Bay Shellfish Farm is a can’t miss. Located in Olga, this small oyster shack is just a stone’s throw from the water where the beauties are being harvested. They also carry a large selection of locally caught crab, prawns, salmon, halibut, and seasonal seafood.
Swing by, pick out your fresh catch, and grab a picnic table. If you don’t know how to shuck an oyster, one of the helpful staff will teach you!
22. Simple & Delicious Lunch at Olga Rising
The menu here is simple — sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The seating is limited to outdoors — including a beautiful outdoor fire pit. And, the service is warm and welcoming. Olga Rising offers the kind of small town charm and wholesome food that’s perfect for fueling you for the day.
23. Sample Fresh Baked Goods at Brown Bear Baking
The delightful aroma of buttery kouign-amanns and gooey sticky buns permeates the southern edge of Eastsound, courtesy of Brown Bear Baking. We discovered it to be the perfect spot to pick up treats for the day’s adventures.
Best Orcas Island Breweries, Wineries & Bars
24. Sip Wine at Orcas Island Winery
A boutique family vineyard and winery, Orcas Island Winery was established in 2011. The first and only winery on Orcas Island, its tasting room is a rustic barn-like structure that feels as though it was plucked from a novel. Dog- and family-friendly, it’s located near Turtlehead Mountain Preserve, making it a great place to rest and refuel after a hike.
25. Island-Crafted Cocktails at Barnacle
Orcas Island’s original cocktail bar, Barnacle is well-known for their island-infused cocktails. The small enclave bustles with whimsical fun. Stay long enough and you might think you’re under the sea, thanks to the old sailor’s ropes, seashells, and rich wood tables. Here, cocktails (and mocktails) are crafted with flair. Not sure what to order. The staff is well adapt at helping you navigate the menu.
26. Doe Bay Wine Co.
A small tasting room on Orcas Island, Doe Bay Wine Co. was founded by an Orcas Island native Cole Sisson. In addition to the welcoming wine shop, Cole also launched The Orcas Project, a boutique selection of exquisite wines that showcases winemakers throughout the region.
27. Sample Local Brews at Island Hoppin’ Brewery
Orcas Island’s first and only microbrewery, Island Hoppin’ Brewery was founded in 2012. The small brewhouse and tasting room is located just minutes from the Orcas Island Airport and offers a wide selection of full-flavored beers. For those who want a bite with their brew, there’s a small menu of nibbles. And for those who want to bring their four-legged companions, it’s dog friendly!
28. Sultry Cocktails at MONTI
MATIA’s little sister, MONTI offers a bit of a moody reprieve perfect for a date night. (Want to bring the kiddos? The all-ages patio is open, weather permitting.) In addition to an inventive cocktail menu, MONTI offers a robust menu crafted by Chef Avery Adams for MATIA.
Orcas Island Arts, Museums & Markets
29. Design Your Own Shirt at Printshop Northwest
Located in downtown Eastsound, Printshop Northwest sells a host of pre-printed and design-your-own clothing that they can print in-house while you wait. This fun and engaging shop showcases the work of local artists and utilizes water-based textile ink that which is more environmentally-friendly.
30. Discover Hand-Pounded Jewelry at Material Wit
Originally a farmer, minimalist jewelry artist Jessie Morrow began envisioning earrings and necklaces among the carrots and peas. Over the years, those visions turned into physical, wearable items that she now sells from her Orcas Island jewelry shop located in Eastsound.
While her main studio is at home, Jessie also has a small workspace in her shop. Depending on the day, you may be able to watch as she creates new pieces.
31. Shop for Hand-Made Souvenirs at Orcas Island Pottery
Located on the west side of the island, visiting Orcas Island Pottery is an event in and of itself. The small compound is comprised of several buildings — not the least of which is a large tree fort! From its backyard lawn, there are peekaboo views of the water, along with a plethora of outdoor pottery for sale.
And inside, you’ll find not only a large selection of handcrafted pots, plates, and cups but often the artists themselves. The pottery studio is tucked within the showroom where artists can often be seen throwing pots and glazing finished pieces.
32. Discover Local Artists at Orcas Island Artworks
Orcas Island Artworks is located in Olga on the east side of the island. The quaint town was named after the island’s first postmaster and was originally formed to support the island’s booming strawberry industry.
The gallery gift shop is housed within a 1938 strawberry barreling plant that has been lovely restored as a historic landmark. The collection of prints, paintings, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, glass, wood, fiber, and wearable arts are all made on Orcas Island.
33. Orcas Island Historical Museums
The Orcas Island Historical Museums are comprised of six historic log cabins that date back to the late 19th century, along with the 1888 Crow Valley School Museum. Both the buildings and the artifacts they house are considered historical artifacts, preserving many of the stories and life of both the island’s Native Americans and the early European-American settlers.
34. Orcas Island Farmers Market
The Orcas Island Farmers Market is a seasonal farmers market that runs from May through September. It’s held on the Village Green in the heart of Eastsound and features a wide array of local artists, farmers, and food purveyors.
35. Darvill’s Bookstore
Situated along the shores of the fjord-like Eastsound, Darvill’s Bookstore is a must-visit destination. This charming independent bookstore not only houses a selection of works by local authors and classics but also boasts a hidden gem in the form of a coffee bar tucked away in the back.
