Island Activities
Orcas Island
If you want to learn more about the island, we've linked a great article!
Orcas Island Pottery
This unique pottery studio is a must-see!
Eastsound
Cute little downtown with lots of shops, local art, bakeries, bookshops, and more! Island Thyme is one of Chelsea's favorite shops for locally made lotions and potions.
Moran State Park
Lakeside hiking trails and swimming opportunities.
Mount Constitution
You can drive up to this scenic viewpoint to check out the highest point in all of the San Juans!
Whale Watching Tour
The San Juan Islands are one of the best places in the world for whale watching, and September is an especially beautiful time to be out on the water. Humpback whales and transient orcas are typically migrating at that time.
Sea Plane Tour
If you feel especially adventurous, check out a seaplane tour for views of the Salish sea and surrounding islands!
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or SUP to explore the island's biggest freshwater lake - Mountain Lake - or explore the waters of the Salish Sea.
Inter-Island Ferry to San Juan Island
If you'd like to check out San Juan Island, it is SO worth the trip! Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor, Pelindaba Lavender Farm, Lime Kiln Point, Cattle Point Lighthouse and the Mausoleum are all worth seeing.
Farmer's Market
The farmers market takes place in Eastsound on Saturdays and offers local food, crafts and music.
Doe Bay Resort & Retreat
Beautiful bay with a cute restaurant and gift shop. Perfect to spend an afternoon sitting by the water with a drink!
Turtleback Mountain Preserve
Hiking trails for anyone wanting to stretch their legs!
The Mansion at Rosario
This is an incredible 1904 Arts and Crafts style mansion perched on the edge of the water. It used to be the estate of a shipbuilder and former Seattle mayor. Sadly the interior is closed but if you're exploring around Moran State Park, it's worth taking the extra 10 minutes just to see the exterior and walk the grounds.
Obstruction Pass State Park
This location offers the largest public beach on Orcas Island, along with forest walks.
Deception Pass State Park
If you're spending the night in Anacortes before catching the ferry to the Island, we highly recommend taking this 20 minute detour to check out Deception Pass Bridge! The bridge was built in 1935 and connects Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands. Check out Rosario Beach for a cool view of the bridge from a bluff down below (this location is also where Chelsea does a ton of photoshoots)! One of our favorite spots in Washington.