Things To Do

Mount Constitution, Moran State Park

This is the perfect place to see during the break between the Indian Ceremonies and Wedding at St. Francis. A 25 minute drive from Eastsound, on a clear day the Observation Tower on Mount Constitution offers views of Canada, Bellingham, the other San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker, Mt. Ranier and more. From there, you can find many beautiful trails or explore other parts of the park, as well! Remember, you'll need a state park day pass to visit, which can be purchased at the park.

Turtleback Mountain

The Kitchen

A favorite spot in Eastsound of ours to catch a bite for lunch, dinner, etc.

Brown Bear Baking

The croissants here are irresistible - and worth the wait!

The gardens and chapel at Outlook Inn and New Leaf Cafe

If you're milling around Eastsound, don't miss the gardens behind the main hotel at the Outlook. They are open to the community, and such a beautiful place for a moment of peace. The beautiful wooden chapel is open for reflection and prayer, and the gardens will be in full summer bloom.

Crescent Beach Preserve

An easy jaunt from Eastsound, you will be greeted with driftwood, the sound of the waves, short wooded inland hikes, and an outfitter to rent paddles.

Chuckanut Mountains / Larrabee State Park

If you're looking for some prime hiking that doesn't include a drive of several hours, the Chuckanut Mountains are an excellent, near option. Take Chuckanut drive north from Anacortes for less than 30 minutes, and you'll find yourself at many trailheads for rainforest hikes with views of the Sound. A local favorite is Oyster Dome, which is nearby the Oyster Bar for an upscale dinner or by Taylor Shellfish Farms for a shuck-your-own-oysters-right-on-the-water experience. Larrabee State Park is just up the road for more hiking and camping options.

Taylor Shellfish Farms

For oyster-lovers who don't want to leave until you've had some good coast seafood, this is hands down the place to go. Super-casual dining on the water with a sunset view, this place can't be beat. There are other seafood options, also. If you're having oysters elsewhere in Washington, there's a good chance they will be from Taylor. And if you want to make them up yourself, they'll put fresh ones on ice for you for $1-2/oyster, and teach you how to shuck them if they're not too busy :)

Whidbey Island

If you're looking for the scenic route between Seattle and Anacortes/Orcas Island, this is it. Whidbey Island is full of State Parks/ natural areas/ hiking/ beaches, small towns, Navy aircraft overhead, and more. A few favorite spots on the island: - Deception Pass - Ebey's Landing - park at the cemetery, walk to the bluff - Fort Casey State Park - Penn Cove Gallery, Coupeville - Whidbey Island Bagel Factory, Clinton & Oak Harbor - Restaurants in Langley If you're connecting from Seattle to Anacortes via Whidbey, you'll travel via the Deception Pass bridge on the north end. On the south end, you'll want to take the ferry from Mulkiteo to Clinton. The same DOT website can be used to see timetables and make a reservation. We suggest reserving this ferry for travel Friday-Sunday, however, you are much less likely to need one Monday - Thursday. This ferry runs four times an hour, and the sail is 15 minutes. Most often, you can drive right up and get in a short line without planning ahead.

Washington Park

If you find yourself with some extra time to explore in Anacortes, this is the spot with the best views. There's a stunning loop you can walk, run, or drive, with some extra-beautiful trails that branch off at a few points. There's plenty of space for frisbee and the like near the parking lot, as well. Other favorite Anacortes hideouts: - Mount Erie, for a view of the San Juans, Whidbey, the mountains, the Sound... everything. - The shops downtown - Cap Sante Marina (Aman's home address: O92) - St. Mary Catholic Church - the art and architecture are gorgeous, and please say hi to Fr. Straz for us. Be advised that Mass is usually close to an hour and a half.

Adrift Restaurant

If you're looking for the most delicious dinner in Anacortes, this is it. Don’t miss the crab au gratin.