Finding the best things to do on Orcas Island is easy if you know where to look, and after years of visiting, I’ve put together this guide to share everything I’ve learned. Orcas is the largest of the San Juan Islands and has remained one of my favorite Pacific Northwest getaways since I first visited for a friend’s wedding at Doe Bay. I was instantly hooked on how laid-back the island is, where you can chat with the owner of every shop and restaurant.
Since that first trip, my family (dogs included) and our friends have made it an almost yearly tradition to camp at Moran State Park every June. We relax in the forest, swim in the lake, and head into Eastsound when we feel like grabbing a meal or coffee. I’ve also stayed at multiple Airbnbs around the island and visited Rosario Resort and Doe Bay enough times to know the lay of the land.
This guide covers the 14 best things to do on Orcas Island in 2026, plus where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there. Whether you’re spending a weekend or a full week, you’ll have plenty of options for hiking, kayaking, beach time, and slowing down.
14 Best Things to Do on Orcas Island
Whether you want relaxing Orcas Island activities or are ready to get out and explore, there are plenty of things to do on Orcas Island.
1. Go Camping at Moran State Park
My favorite thing to do on Orcas Island during the summer is camping. Camping is popular in the Pacific Northwest, so I recommend booking at least six months in advance. You’d be amazed at how fast summer campsites go when it’s still winter.
My favorite place for camping on Orcas Island is Moran State Park. I come here every year because there’s nothing like true Orcas Island camping, where you go to bed with a campfire at night and wake up in nature. There are over 5,000 acres in this state park, and you have a variety of different places to camp.
Make sure to book your reservation online in advance. What I love about this campsite is that you’ll be on either Cascade Lake or Mountain Lake, and there’s boat access to both. All the campsites have bathrooms with running water, toilets, and a quarter shower you can pay to use.
There’s a small store open during the day near the northern part of the park that sells snacks, ice cream, and other amenities you might need when camping. However, a gas station is located about 10 minutes north of the park, which has many more options for food, beverages, and even firewood.
Another camping option is Doe Bay. You can reserve a campsite with a traditional camp, or you can stay in a yurt if you prefer something between camping and glamping. There are also cabins to rent if you want to stay in a solid building.
2. Book a Whale Watching Tour
When staying on Orcas Island, I recommend going on a whale-watching tour to see if you can see some real Orca whales. The San Juan Islands are a great place to see them during the spring and summer, as they tend to come up more since this area isn’t as crowded as Puget Sound.
The tours leave from Eastsound on the Blackfish fleet, and the guides are locals who really know the area. It’s not just about orcas. You might also spot humpback and gray whales, plus seals, porpoises, sea lions, and otters along the way.
If you’re planning your trip between April and early September, they guarantee you’ll spot whales. This is one of my favorite things to do on Orcas Island!
Book a Whale Watching Tour from Orcas Island
- Orcas Island Whale Watching Tour – A 3-4 hour boat tour leaving from Eastsound with knowledgeable guides. Guaranteed whale sightings from April through early September, plus you’ll often see seals, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Want more whale watching? Check out the Seattle whale-watching tours that are available.
3. Hike Mount Constitution
If you’re looking for a moderate San Juan Islands hike, you’ll love going through this hike that mainly takes you through the forest. Depending on where you start from, it’s about three miles to the top, but be prepared to be slowed down by switchbacks the last mile of the Mt. Constitution hike.
After grabbing a quick breakfast, head to Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. If you’re up for a three-mile hike during your weekend on Orcas Island, enjoy this moderate climb up to the top for beautiful views.
This is also a great dog-friendly activity, so make sure to bring your pup to get out some of their energy. The first two miles are relatively easy, while the last mile has steeper switchbacks. You can also just drive straight to the top if you’re not up for the challenge. You’ll gain about 1,500 feet in elevation during this hike.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll have 360-degree views of the San Juan Islands and even parts of Canada. There are bathrooms and a store at the top to buy snacks as well. This is one of the most active things to do on Orcas Island, and a hike I’ve done over and over because it feels so rewarding to reach the top.
4. Walk Along North Beach
Up at the northern tip of Orcas Island, you’ll stumble upon a little hideaway known as North Beach. Though less well-known, this spot is ideal for those seeking serenity and water adventures. If launching kayaks or zipping off on other small watercraft is your kind of thing, North Beach is the place to go.
This isn’t your typical bustling beach—it has an easy-going, laid-back vibe that makes it feel like your private seaside retreat. My favorite part about this place is its lack of crowds; I saw no one the first time I came here, so I had it all to myself.
5. Shop in Downtown Eastsound
The central part of the island is Eastsound, where you’ll find dozens of different shops and restaurants, and is one of my favorite small towns in Washington State. Pelindaba Lavender Farm is one of my favorite stores that I stop at every time I visit Orcas Island. You’ll find organic lavender products of all kinds, including soap, jam, and more.
I also love Darvill’s Bookstore, where you can grab a latte, buy a book, and cozy up by the big bay window overlooking the water. If you want to save money and not eat out for every meal, head to Island Market to stock up on groceries.
They also have an Ace Hardware in Eastsound, where you can get anything you might need for the outdoors, including camping supplies, during your 3 days on Orcas Island. While we’re pretty good at packing for the weekend, there always seems to be something we forget and need to stop here for.
6. Enjoy Beer at Island Hoppin’ Brewery
Island Hoppin’ Brewery is the place to go for local pints on Orcas, and I first stopped in the day after my friend’s wedding at Doe Bay when we needed something to do before the ferry home.
I recommend getting a sampler to try multiple at the same time. Some of my favorites are the K-Pod Kolsch and the Rosario Hopscotch Amber. They also have small snacks to purchase if you get hungry.
Another plus is they’re kid-friendly, and dogs are allowed too, so I always love being able to sit outside on the patio basking in the sun while enjoying our beer.
7. Go Kayaking on Mountain Lake
Mountain Lake in Moran State Park is the best place to kayak on Orcas, especially if you’re new to it. The water is calm and protected, the lake is surrounded by forest, and you won’t have to deal with ocean currents like you would on the saltwater side of the island.
My friends always bring their kayak when we’re camping at Moran, so I always get a turn on the lake during our annual trip. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent kayaks (with lifejackets and paddles) at the park. Saltwater kayak rentals are also available at Deer Harbor and West Sound if you want to try the ocean instead. It’s so relaxing that I think it’s one of the best things to do in Washington state.
8. Visit Obstruction Pass State Park
Looking for a short hike with a rewarding view? You’ll want to check out Obstruction Pass State Park, a gem tucked away on the southwest side of Orcas Island. This park is the perfect blend of woodland trails and beachfront beauty. I stumbled upon this by accident when exploring the island years ago, and now it’s one of my favorite things to do in Orcas Island.
This is a more leisurely hike, as it’s only two miles round-trip, and you gain about 300 feet of elevation. You’ll walk through a towering forest and come out at the end, to a secluded beach that’s often empty.
It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, dive into a good book, or just soak in the panoramic views.
9. Eat Fresh-Baked Pastries at Brown Bear Baking
When starting your morning on Orcas Island, there’s one spot that never fails to hit the sweet spot – Brown Bear Baking. Located in downtown Eastsound, this bakery is my go-to morning stop on Orcas. I will warn you, though – I’ve often seen a line out the door here, so you might want to go early before everything sells out.
They have a variety of giant muffins, cookies, and other pastries, though I always end up getting the pain au chocolat. If you’re ravenous, I recommend getting one of their brunch items, such as the smoked salmon quiche.
There’s also an espresso bar stocked with Victrola coffee, so you can get a latte to go with your meal as well as tea.
10. Take a Half-Day Sail Around Orcas Island
If you want a slower, more romantic way to experience the water around Orcas without the wildlife focus of a whale-watching tour, book a half-day sail. The sailing tours leave from Deer Harbor on the southwest side of the island and take you out around the smaller islands of the San Juan archipelago, with views you can’t get from shore.
I haven’t done this one yet, but it’s high on my list for a future return trip. It’s a great option for couples, anyone celebrating an anniversary, or travelers seeking a quieter alternative to busier whale-watching boats.
Book a Half-Day Sail from Orcas Island
- Half-Day Sail Around Orcas Island – A relaxed sail leaving from Deer Harbor with views of the smaller islands and chances to spot marine wildlife. Best for couples, anniversaries, or anyone wanting a quieter alternative to a motorized whale watching tour.
11. Walk the Eastsound Labyrinth
For one of the more random things to do on Orcas Island, head down to the Eastsound waterfront to walk the small concrete labyrinth right next to White Horse Pub. It’s not a tourist destination on its own, but it’s a fun stop if you’re already downtown for shopping or lunch.
I first walked it years ago with my oldest son when he was about a year old. We’d had lunch at White Horse Pub and were killing time before catching the ferry home, and the labyrinth was a perfect way to let him walk around in a contained spot. It’s a quick stop (5-10 minutes if you actually walk the loops), but the location is hard to beat. You can wander down to the water afterward to look for sea life or just enjoy the view across the bay.
It’s a good pair with a meal at White Horse Pub, Brown Bear Baking, or any of the other Eastsound spots, especially if you’re traveling with kids or need a quiet moment between activities.
12. Take a Swim in Cascade Lake
If you’re getting a bit hot on your trip, you’ll love taking a swim in Cascade Lake, located in Moran State Park. It’s ideal for swimmers of all abilities, whether you’re an experienced swimmer who wants to log several laps or just want to take a dip. I’ve also enjoyed just sitting on the shore and taking in the sun.
13. Learn About History at the Orcas Island Historical Museum
If you’ve ever wanted to go back in time and step onto the front porch of a pioneer family’s home on Orcas Island, now’s your chance at the Orcas Island Historical Museum. The museum is located in the heart of Eastsound and continues to share stories from the past.
The cabins that host the museum are over a hundred years old and are not just spaces to showcase historical collections but are historical artifacts themselves. Each cabin tells a unique story about the island’s history, as seen through the lives and artifacts of the area’s Native American and early European-American settlers. With approximately 6,000 artifacts, documents, and photographs, you’ll love spending an hour or so here. The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11 am to 3 pm.
14. Do a Wine Tasting at The Orcas Project
I did The Orcas Project tasting with a girlfriend during one of our annual camping trips at Moran State Park. The guys stayed back at the campsite, and we drove into Eastsound for a few hours of civilization, which, after several days of camping, felt like a small luxury. The owner was friendly and welcoming, and the whole experience was a nice, slower-paced afternoon away from the tent.
The tasting is a guided wine-and-cheese pairing featuring wines made in collaboration with local vineyards and artists. We walked in without a reservation in the summer and were accommodated, but I’d recommend calling ahead to be safe, especially on weekends. I’m not sure how booking works in the off-season.
After the tasting, the shops, bakeries, and waterfront of Eastsound are all within a short walk if you want to keep the slow afternoon going.
If you want to book ahead, you can reserve a spot through The Orcas Project Wine Tasting tour.
Map of Things to Do on Orcas Island
Here’s a visual to make it easier to see where everything is on Orcas.
How to Get to Orcas Island
To get to Orcas Island from Seattle, you can take a ferry or a seaplane. A ferry is the most inexpensive way of transportation, and you’ll be able to drive your car on, so you’ll have it while you visit Orcas Island. I recommend this way so you have the freedom to explore.
When you visit Orcas Island, you’ll need to book your spot in advance on the WSDOT website. I would recommend doing it at least a few months in advance. The ferry terminal is in Anacortes (which has plenty of great places to visit if you want to extend your trip into a weekend in Anacortes). Check out my full Washington State ferry guide before you book so you don’t get stuck waiting on standby.
The terminal goes to additional islands, such as San Juan Island and Vancouver Island, but a staff member will direct you to the correct lane. The Anacortes ferry ride will take you about an hour and a half to get to Orcas.
Be aware that they usually stop at Shaw Island first to let a few people off, so you’ll likely be getting off on the second stop. While it used to be first come first serve, you now only need to show up about an hour in advance if you have a reservation.
If you want to treat yourself, you can book a Seattle to Orcas Island flight on a seaplane, especially if you’re doing a Portland weekend getaway. This hour-long ride will take you to various parts of the island, including Rosario Resort or Deer Harbor. You’ll love this quick way to start your weekend on Orcas Island.
Where to Stay on Orcas Island
It may be a smaller island, but there are plenty of places to stay on Orcas Island for the weekend. Here are a few places to stay on Orcas Island that I recommend.
Where to Stay on Orcas Island
- Outlook Inn – Historic 1888 inn in downtown Eastsound with main inn rooms and updated bayside rooms with water views. Walking distance to restaurants and shops.
- Doe Bay Resort & Retreat – Eclectic glamping resort with cabins, yurts, and tent sites. Hot tubs, farm-to-table cafe, and a true slow-down vibe.
- Rosario Resort & Spa – Historic waterfront resort built around the 1909 Moran Mansion, with hotel rooms, suites, a spa, and on-site restaurants.
- Modern Home with Stunning Water View (Eastsound) – 2-bedroom, 2-bath modern home in the heart of Eastsound, walking distance to Eastsound Beaches and downtown. 10/10 rating across 366 reviews. Pet-friendly.
- Beautiful Modern Home with Large Deck (Rosario) – Waterview home near Rosario Resort with a large new deck and Moran State Park access. Best for travelers wanting easy hiking access and pet-friendly.
- Browse all Orcas Island vacation rentals on VRBO – For waterfront cottages, country homes, and farm stays across Eastsound, Olga, Doe Bay, and West Sound.
The San Juan Islands are one of my favorite weekend getaways from Seattle. Read my full guide on where to stay in the San Juan Islands.
Where to Eat on Orcas Island
There are so many Orcas Island restaurants to choose from, but here are some of my favorite ones.
Madrona Bar and Grill
They have burgers, steaks, seafood, pasta, and more to choose from. In case you happen to be there before Friday, sit in the bar to enjoy their happy hour specials. After that, take a stroll down by the water to watch the sunset.
Mijitas
If you’re in the mood for Mexican food when it’s lunchtime, head to Mijitas in Eastsound for chips and guacamole, burritos, and more. They have a cute open-air bar where you can order your margaritas, perfect for the summer months.
White Horse Pub
I love coming to this English pub and getting a pint of Guinness and fish and chips. They also have a shuffleboard table and pool tables, but a big draw for me is the giant window that offers a stunning view of the water. Even though they’re a pub, they are family-friendly, which is a big plus for us on our travels here now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orcas Island
Here are some common questions about Orcas Island.
How do I get to Orcas Island?
The most common way to reach Orcas Island is via the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes, which takes about 90 minutes and lets you bring your car (recommended, since the island is too spread out to manage without one). You can also fly in via Kenmore Air seaplane from Seattle, which takes about an hour and drops you at Rosario or Deer Harbor. Book ferry reservations at least a few months in advance, especially for summer weekends.
Do you need a car on Orcas Island?
Yes, you absolutely need a car on Orcas Island. Unlike San Juan Island, where you can stay walkable in Friday Harbor, Orcas is much more spread out, and there’s no public transit between the main areas (Eastsound, Moran State Park, Doe Bay, Rosario). The ferry lets you bring your car for an additional fee, which is the easiest option. If you’re flying in, you can rent a car on the island, but inventory is limited.
How long do you need on Orcas Island?
I recommend at least 2-3 nights to really enjoy Orcas Island. A single night feels rushed because the ferry travel eats up a chunk of your trip. With 2-3 nights, you can hike Mount Constitution, hit a beach or two, explore Eastsound, and have time for activities like kayaking, whale watching, or wine tasting. For a really immersive trip, a full week works well, especially if you’re camping or staying in a vacation rental.
What is the best time to visit Orcas Island?
July through early September is peak season with the warmest weather, longest days, and best chances of seeing orcas. Late May through June is also excellent with fewer crowds, lower lodging prices, and wildflowers in bloom. September and October offer beautiful fall weather and quieter island vibes. Winter is the off-season with reduced ferry schedules and many seasonal properties closed, but hiking, brewery visits, and the art scene are all still available year-round.
What is Orcas Island known for?
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands at 57.3 square miles, with a more rural, slower-paced feel than the other islands. It’s famous for Moran State Park (home to Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands), the small bohemian town of Eastsound, and being one of the best places in Washington to see orcas in summer. The island has a tight-knit local community and a strong arts, music, and farm-to-table scene.
Are there things to do on Orcas Island in winter?
Yes, Orcas Island is a year-round destination. It rarely snows here, so winter activities include hiking Mount Constitution and other trails, visiting Island Hoppin’ Brewery, exploring the art scene at places like Orcas Island Artworks, and enjoying a quieter, more local feel without summer crowds. Many restaurants and lodging facilities stay open year-round, though ferry schedules are reduced and some seasonal businesses close. Bring rain gear and warm layers.
At this point, you’ve hopefully had a relaxing trip and explored some of the best things to do on Orcas Island. Enjoy the ferry ride home and start planning your next trip here!
