Looking for a serene island getaway packed with natural beauty and local charm? Head to Eastsound! Nestled on Orcas Island, Eastsound offers stunning waterfront views, cozy cafés, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into kayaking, art galleries, or whale watching, Eastsound delivers the perfect Pacific Northwest escape.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Eastsound is from late spring through early fall (May through September). Sunny days and mild temperatures make it ideal for hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and exploring island markets and festivals.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car and ferry: Drive to Anacortes, Washington, and take the Washington State Ferry to Orcas Island. Eastsound is about a 15-minute drive from the ferry landing.
- By Plane: Fly into Orcas Island Airport (ORS) from Seattle or Bellingham via small regional airlines, or charter a seaplane directly to the island.
- By Shuttle: Shuttle services from Seattle connect with ferry departures in Anacortes for easy, car-free travel.
Where I like to stay
- Outlook Inn on Orcas Island – Classic island hotel with waterfront views and an acclaimed on-site restaurant.
- Orcas Hotel – Historic Victorian hotel offering cozy rooms and convenient access near the ferry terminal.
Best Things to Do
1. Paddle, Hike, and Explore: Find Hidden Coves at Sucia Island State Park
Washington state is home to a thriving outdoor ecosystem. Many parks can be found throughout Eastsound, and Sucia Island State Park can only be accessed by boat. This park is 814 acres and offers plenty of space on land for camping and hiking. Because this is one of the smaller of the San Juan Islands, it has remained mostly untouched. In 2012, an 80-million-year-old femur from a meat-eating, 2-legged dinosaur was found. Though this was excavated by paleontologists, there are strict restrictions for fossil collecting. Diving can be done in the clear waters, but a recreational license is required for anyone who wants to fish or harvest shellfish.
Sucia Island State Park, Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-376-2073
2. Sip Island Flavor: If You Love Boutique Wines, Then Visit Orcas Island Winery
Orcas Island Winery has recently been purchased by Wesley and Tera Landman. The winery was originally established in 2011 as the first winery on the Orcas Island. This small winery makes up for the lack of wine choices with a charming atmosphere and boutique-style experience. Visitors to the winery can sit in the farmhouse-style tasting room and sample the five wines currently on the sampling menu. Picnic blankets and food are available for those wanting to picnic and enjoy wine somewhere on the 16 acres of land. With breathtaking views, special events, like Imbibe & Paint, is the perfect setting to make the day memorable.
2371 Crow Valley Road, Eastsound, Washington 98245, Phone: 520-991-9291
3. Anchor and Wander: Discover Secluded Beauty at Jones Island Marine State Park
This 188-acre park is only accessible by boat. There are over 25,000 feet of shoreline for visitors to hike and take in the picturesque views. Those who want to camp can choose from one of the twenty-four campsites on the island. These are on a first-come-first-serve basis, though those who want more than one site at a time can call to reserve multiple sites. Boating moors and hiking trails are found around the island. For those who wish to picnic or camp, there is no garbage removal on the island, so there is a pack-in-take-out policy in Jones Island Marine State Park.
Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-378-2044
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Step Into the Past: Explore Island History at Crow Valley School Museum
Built in 1888, a year before Washington became part of the U.S., the Crow Valley School was built. Since its use up through 1918, the school has changed its purpose several times and become a museum for visitors to Eastsound. During its use, school years were only 63-days long, less than half the requirement for today’s students. In 1987, Richard Schneider and Bud McBride restored the schoolhouse to its former beauty. Today, it is one of the only single-room schoolhouses still standing in Washington. For those looking to be a long-term visitor, volunteer opportunities as a docent, gardener, office worker, or one-time event worker are available.
Crow Valley School Museum, 1668 Crow Valley Road, Eastsound, WA 98245
5. Hike the Wild Shorelines: Experience Natural Solitude on Matia Island
Another island that can only be accessed by boat, Matia Island Marine State Park is home to dense foliage and black licorice slugs. The 20,000+ feet of shoreline on Matia Island overlooks the Strait of Georgia. This Island, though it offers campgrounds, is unique since the rest of the island is restricted for conservation. Those who do visit the open beaches or campgrounds can saltwater fish, dive, boat, or go crabbing or clamming. This island has strict guidelines for gas stove usage and bringing things in and out of the park. Open fires and pets are not permitted anywhere on the island, even in campgrounds.
1567 Westside Road, Friday Harbor WA 98250, Phone: 360-376-2073
6. Chase the Light: If You Crave Remote Adventures, Then Visit Patos Island and Its Lighthouse
Patos Island Marine State Park is the northernmost of all the San Juan islands. Similar to other islands in the chain, this island has a pack-in-take-out policy for food and garbage. Though there is no drinkable water on the island, guests may bring some in for usage. There are only seven camping sites on the island, and a group campsite is often used by the volunteers who maintain the island’s lighthouse. Since these are first-come-first-serve, it’s important that visitors plan accordingly. With proper recreational licenses, visitors can go fishing or shellfish harvesting. Lighthouse tours are available most weekends during the warmer months.
Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-376-2073
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
7. Connect with Nature: Wander Gardens and Meadows at Peaceful Orcasong Farm
Since it’s purchase in 2002, the mission of Orcasong Farm has been to nourish the earth, both through growing plants and educating people. Over the years, the farm has expanded to offer many unique areas, like a children’s sensory garden and lavender distiller. The farm grows a wide variety of produce and herbs (including whole lavender fields). Visitors can watch bees as they produce honey in one of the onsite bee houses. For those who want to stay the night, houses, canvas tents, campsites, and a yurt are available for rent. Pop up farm-to-table meals and wellness retreats can also be found on the calendar throughout the year.
280 Dolphin Bay Road, Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-622-2482
8. Kayak to Quiet Shores: Explore Tiny but Mighty Blind Island State Park
As one of the Cascadia Marine Trail campgrounds, visitors can access this island only by boat. However, motorboats of any kind are not permitted by campers. Those who do bring motored boats are welcome to stay on the island through the day. Camping is limited, as there are only two sites, but both offer breathtaking views of Shaw and Orcas Islands. The major activities for this area are boating and crabbing. With the appropriate recreational license, guests can look for crabs in Blind Bay. Because the weather is temperate, the park is open year-round.
Blind Island State Park, Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-378-2044
9. Dine and Stay in Style: Savor Farm-to-Table Dining at The Inn at Ship Bay
The Inn at Ship Bay offers spectacular views overlooking the bluff and Ship Bay. This Inn has 11 rooms, including a suite and a handicap-accessible room. All rooms advertise a balcony overlooking the water. For those who want to dine in the restaurant, the farm-to-table dining experience leaves patrons satisfied and inspired. All food is made in-house using fresh local ingredients. The bread is an exceptional treat; it is used with a 100-year-old sourdough starter. Seafood is by far the star on the menu, as the chef creates seasonal dishes featuring scallops, oysters, and clams. Many dishes include plums, apples, and pears from the onsite orchards.
Phone: 326 Olga Road, Eastsound, WA 98245, Phone: 360-376-5886
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Explore Moran State Park – Hike to the summit of Mount Constitution for sweeping views of the San Juan Islands.
- Stroll through Eastsound Village – Browse local boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront parks in the heart of town.
- Whale watching tours – Head out on a boat tour to spot orcas, humpback whales, and seals around the islands.
- Kayak on Cascade Lake – Paddle tranquil waters surrounded by lush forest inside Moran State Park.
- Visit Orcas Island Farmers Market – Shop for handmade crafts, local produce, and artisan treats (Saturdays, May–September).
Where I Like to Eat
- New Leaf Café – Farm-to-table dining with seasonal Pacific Northwest flavors and beautiful garden views.
- Brown Bear Baking – A must-visit for fresh pastries, coffee, and homemade breads right downtown.
- Mijitas – Bright, festive spot serving Mexican-inspired dishes with local ingredients and island flair.
My favorite local events:
- Orcas Island Farmers Market (May–September) – Weekly market filled with crafts, food, and local produce.
- Orcas Island Film Festival (October) – Screenings of international and independent films with a stunning island backdrop.
- Solstice Parade and Celebration (June) – A whimsical, colorful parade and community festival celebrating summer.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Eastsound, Washington:
- Moran State Park (10–15 min) – Hike, swim, kayak, or picnic in one of Washington’s most beautiful state parks.
- Doe Bay (20–25 min) – Relax at the Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, famous for its soaking tubs, yoga, and waterfront dining.
- Obstruction Pass State Park (25–30 min) – Hike coastal trails to a quiet beach with breathtaking island views.
- Orcas Island Artworks (Olga) (20 min) – Browse a historic co-op gallery showcasing local artists and crafts.
- Cascade Falls (10–15 min) – A short hike leads to beautiful waterfalls hidden within Moran State Park.
- Rosario Resort & Spa (10–15 min) – Visit the historic mansion museum, enjoy spa treatments, or dine overlooking the water.
Plan Your Trip