Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands, is a perfect place for a weekend getaway. Accessible by ferry or seaplane from Seattle area, the island boasts vast ocean views, great hiking, and multiple local restaurants and wineries that make it a place that can meet the needs of almost any type of trip.
If you only have 48 hours though, there are definitely a few places that need to be on the list to check out.
Stay:
There are many options on where to stay on the island. The route that we took during our trip to the island was camping at Moran State Park. Its a centrally located jumping off point to be able to get to some of the points of interest mentioned below and gives you the feeling of being able to slow down from the world for a bit if you want. The campgrounds have amenities like showers and fire wood purchases but allow for being out in nature if that’s the route you are looking to go. As a bonus, the campgrounds are located right next to Cascade Lake which features swimming, boating options, and a loop walking trail to explore.
If camping isn’t your thing, the town of Eastsound is your best bet for Airbnb’s or vacation rentals. The town has a quaint business and tourist district that features parks, artist galleries, and restaurants all while overlooking serene Fishing Bay.
Eat/Drink:
For those looking for food and atmosphere, make sure to check out Buck Bay Shellfish Farm in Olga on the southeast side of the island. Although its a bit of a hike from the main areas where most visitors spend their time, it is not a place you want to miss. The open bayside no-frills location serves up delicious, fresh seafood with great views. You can take it all in while eating al fresco or they even have the market to take the fresh catches back to wherever you are staying to make your own meal. And for those who can’t get enough of this place, I’ve heard they even have an Airbnb on site which means you can soak it all in for the rest of your trip if you’d like.
Another place to soak up the sun while imbibing is Orcas Island Winery. Located just east of Turtleback Mountain Preserve, the winery is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass after a morning hike. With a large open hill with tables to spread out on and views of eagles circling the mountain right next door, pairing the wines with the nature around you can make for an afternoon stop like none other.
If you are looking for delicious pastries and baked goods, Brown Bear Baking is your place. Be aware though that lines can get pretty long in the mid-morning so try to get there early. You will not regret waking up early. With the bakery being right across the street from the bay, you can walk over and enjoy a peaceful morning sipping coffee and breaking into your amazing treats.
Outdoors:
Turtleback Mountain Preserve on the west side of the island has various trails to explore during some down time for those who are looking to be on the active side. The trails can reach up to 8 miles for those who are ambitious but for a somewhat shorter and leisurely hike, the North Trail to Orcas Knob is a 5 mile out and back with spectacular views of the surrounding islands and fishing and tour boats below. Highly recommended on a clear day.
Another great alternative located in Moran State Park is Mt. Constitution. Accessible via hike or car ride up the mountain, Mt. Constitution boasts an observation tower with almost 360 degree views of the surrounding islands and mainland (including Canada on very clear days).
With only 48 hours you can explore all that Orcas Island has to offer with time to spare. If you have a free weekend, make the trip. It’s definitely worth visiting.