Orcas Island Artworks
One of the oldest Northwest cooperative galleries featuring works from 45 local artists. Extensive selection of locally made pottery, painting, jewelry, art glass, fiber & wood. Visit the new Orcas Island Artworks building in Eastsound Village 217 Main Street in Eastsound (also known as the old library), our home away from home while our building in Olga is repaired. The Olga location should re-open for business again early Summer 2014. Summer hours from 10am-6pm and Winter hours are from 11am-5pm.
— 360-376-4408.
Moran State Park
30 miles of trails, 5 lakes & over 150 campsites. Boating, hiking, and camping opportunities abound. Experience Mt. Constitution & the 360 degree view of the San Juan Archipelago, Vancouver Island & Cascade and Olympic Mt. Ranges. Come and enjoy the largest public recreation area in San Juan County! For Reservations:
— 360-376-2326 (local)/1-888-226-7688 (toll free).
Kayaking
Not satisfied until you’ve seen the San Juan Islands up close for yourself? Rent a kayak and see all of the islets, inlets, and bays that add the fine touch to the San Juan Islands’ natural beauty. West Beach Resort offers professionally guided tours complete with basic training. Catch an overnight tour from Orcas Outdoors; also offering custom tours. Spring Bay Kayak Tours will provide the destination, theme, and duration that you want for your perfect Pacific Northwest island adventure!
Orcas Island Historical Museum
Exhibits focusing on local Native American groups. Early Orcas Island life & industries are displayed in 6 original homestead cabins. Extensive collections of Orcas Island artifacts. Wednesday-Saturday, 12pm-3pm.
Also manages the Crow Valley School Museum which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1888 territorial one-room school features original furnishings, childhood memorabilia and historic photographs. Call our office for open hours.
— 360-376-4849.
Whale Watching
The Orca Whale pods that frequent the San Juans aren’t as common around Orcas; but there’s no worry. A host of businesses are ready and able to take you all over the San Juan Islands. Wherever the whales might be is where you’ll get to see them. Northshore Charters, Deer Harbor Charters, and Maya’s Whalewatch Tours are just a few of the professionally managed and guided services available. Not only can you experience the natural majesty of island marine life; you’ll get to enjoy a seaside tour of the San Juan Islands with experts in local wildlife and geography. Come aboard a Washington State Ferry and immerse yourself in one of the finest marine experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Rosario Resort
Over one hundred years ago Seattle Shipbuilder Robert Moran built Rosario with Arts and Crafts ideals in mind – time spent with family, a respect for nature and a return to hand craftsmanship lost in the industrial revolution. One hundred years later, Rosario Resort & Spa on Orcas Island offers comfortable and relaxing guest accommodations with beautiful views of Washington State’s San Juan Islands. The mansion is open to the public for a self-guided tour from 9 am – 9 pm daily.
— 360-376-2222.
Boating
Boat rentals and marinas are readily available for those who desire to chart their own courses through the San Juan Islands. Grab a rental from Lieber Haven Marina or Orcas Boat Rentals. Bring your own sail boat, cruiser, or speed boat and moor at several locations around Orcas Island including Deer Harbor, Westsound, Orcas Village, and Eastsound.
Hiking & Biking
Moran State Park offers over 35 miles of hiking trails through woodlands, rocky hills, and lakeside glens. Yet the nature fun doesn’t stop there; the Turtleback Mountain Preserve features hiking trails for access to the north and south slopes with views of Mount Constitution, Crow Valley, and Deer Harbor. Gnat’s Nature Hikes offers guided tours of the San Juan Islands many winding paths with experts on local plant life and history. If you get footsore then Orcas Island Trail Rides offers horseback riding across several trails with options for novices and seasoned riders. Dolphin Bay Bicycles is your source for bike rentals and outfitting for biking trips and tours.
