Orcas Island Visitor Information
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The Emerald Island
Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands in land mass, is shaped like a horseshoe. The terrain covers 57 square miles of diverse scenery, from rugged coastline to the highest elevation within the San Juan Island group. It's a magical setting of sparkling fjords,
rolling hills, small mountains, densely wooded forest, lakes and beaches, and green valleys dotted with sheep. Visitors soon realize there’s a beautiful view from everywhere on Orcas Island!
Activities
Drive 2400 feet up Mount Constitution to see a breath-taking panorama of the 172 island archipelago and mainland mountain peaks. Picnic in
Moran State Park, hike 30 miles of trails weaving through 5,000+ acres of forest complete with waterfalls and lakes where you can
swim. On another day, head up
Turtle Back Mountain, a superb walking and
horseback-riding destination or play a round of
golf.
Whale watching tours, kayak adventures,and boat charters depart from numerous public and private marinas. A day trip by ferry to Lopez Island or Friday Harbor
is a wonderful way to see more of the San Juan Islands. Scenic flights offer a dramatic perspective of the surrounding islands, sea, and mountain ranges. (Scheduled & charter flights also offer transportation to & from Seattle, Bellingham, or Victoria
BC.)
Shopping, Dining
When arriving by Washington State Ferry
from Anacortes, shop for provisions at the excellent market on the Orcas landing, or head directly into Eastsound, a charming
village filled with local businesses, shops, galleries, and acclaimed
restaurants (Sunset Magazine named Eastsound in their top 10 dream small town list!) Drive 15-30 minutes east of town to find
Rosario Resort, Doe Bay and Olga; go west and you'll come across Orcas Landing, Westsound, and Deer Harbor. These tiny hamlets also offer post offices, general stores, marinas, and excellent dining options.
Lifestyle
Orcas Island is home to an eclectic population of 5,000 full and part-time residents. Pioneers of industry, entrepreneurs, notables, characters, & creative artists alike find refuge from urban babble in this just-out-of-the-mainstream setting. Islanders are
private individuals, but actively participate within the community and generously support its many organizations. Be warned that many visitors return time and again with the dream of becoming an Islander too! ( Call
Windermere Real Estate to make that dream a reality.)