THINGS TO DO ON ORCAS ISLAND
Outdoor Adventure
Hiking & Biking
With fog covered mountains, lush green forests and majestic beaches, Orcas Island is a haven for the outdoorsy. The island provides a variety of different hikes, both in elevation, length, and terrain. Moran State Park offers an extensive trail system, including options to hike to cascading waterfalls, around sparkling lakes, and to spectacular viewpoints. Some favorite hikes in Moran State Park include Cascade Lake (2.9 mile loop), Mountain Lake (4 mile loop), Mount Constitution (a summit hike not for the faint of heart), and Cascade Falls (a .3 mile hike to a beautiful waterfall). Do take note that a Discovery Pass is required at Moran State Park, and is available for purchase as a daily or yearly pass. If you'd like to experience another hiking spot on Orcas Island, Turtleback Mountain Preserve is found on Orcas's west side. The preserve is one of the county's largest, undeveloped places, and offers views to Crow Valley and the Salish Sea. Over 8 miles of trails make up a primitive trail system, with several routes to choose from and explore. Turtleback Mountain does not have any water sources, so do come prepared if you choose to hike here.
Whale Watching & Boating
Though not named for the whale, Orcas Island is a great homebase for whalewatching adventures! May through September is typically thought to be the best time for viewing, with many our of local companies offering a 90+% success rate of viewing.
We recommend Deer Harbor Charters both for their whale watching tours or if whale watching isn't your jam, for their adventure and hiking trips to some of the outer islands.
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If you'd rather do a kayak trip, we loved our bioluminescence tour with Shearwater Kayaks and they offer guided tours as well as rentals.
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If the ocean isn't your thing, you can always rental paddle boats, paddleboards, kayaks and canoes at Moran State Park, on a first come-first served basis.
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Farms & Farmers' Markets
Orcas is home to many fantastic farms, and an awesome Farmers' Market, that is only a 3-minute walk away in the Green!
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While the Farmers' Market is a one stop shop for all of the cool vendors on island, many farms offer unique experiences. Here are a few of our favorites:
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Lum Farm: Come take a self-guided farm walk and say howdy to some cheerful goats, then swing by the farm stand to try their goodies. With treats like goats' milk ice cream, or luxurious goats' milk caramel (cajeta) you can indulge or be good with their seasonally grown produce! Also check out their adorable feltworks and gear.
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Little Farm On Olga Road: Stroll through the flower fields and create your own unique U-pick bouquet, check out the farm stand with grab and go bouquets and potted plants, or enjoy a tasting in their wine barn. Whether it is the gorgeous flowers, or the refreshing wines, The Little Farm team has taste that can't miss!
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Tekla Farms: We're not saying that the U-Pick berry farm is our toddler's FAVORITE place on the island, but we are also not NOT saying that. What goes better than fresh, local berries and a toddler? That's right, NOTHING. But Tekla Farms is also one of our favorites too! They also have cut flower fields and bonus, adorable sheep!
Food & Drink
The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce has put together a GREAT food & drink guide, and are constantly updating as hours and availability changes.
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Feel free to give us a call for recommendations based on our favorites or what type of food you like!
