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Visiting the Sanctuary that is Orcas Island

May 29, 2023

Visitng the beautiful Orcas Island

Visit the Sanctuary Seaside Island of Orcas in the San Juan Islands.


Orcas Island is a beautiful island located in the San Juan Islands of Washington State. It is known for its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and charming small towns. The island is home to a variety of activities, including whale watching, hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.


Orcas Island, San Juan Islands

One of the most popular activities on Orcas Island is whale watching. The island is located in the Salish Sea, which is a major migration route for orcas. Visitors can often see orcas from shore, but there are also a number of companies that offer whale watching tours.

In addition to whale watching, Orcas Island also offers a variety of other outdoor activities. There are hiking trails to explore, bike paths to ride, and kayaks and canoes to paddle. The island also has a number of fishing charters that can take you out to sea in search of salmon, halibut, and other fish.

If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, Orcas Island also has a number of charming small towns to explore. The town of Friday Harbor is the largest town on the island and has a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town of Eastsound is a bit smaller and has a more relaxed atmosphere.

No matter what you're looking for, Orcas Island is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.



Here are some tips for planning your trip to Orcas Island:



  • The best time to visit Orcas Island is during the summer months (June-September). The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
  • If you're planning on whale watching, the best time to go is during the spring and fall months. This is when the orcas are migrating and are more likely to be seen.
  • There are a variety of places to stay on Orcas Island, from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfasts and cabins.
  • There are also a variety of restaurants on Orcas Island, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
  • If you're planning on doing any hiking or biking, be sure to bring appropriate gear.
  • Be sure to pack your camera, as you'll want to capture all the beauty of Orcas Island.


Here are some of the best places to visit on Orcas Island:


  • Friday Harbor: The largest town in the San Juan county, Friday Harbor has a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
  • Eastsound: A smaller town with a more relaxed atmosphere, Eastsound is home to the Orcas Island Historical Museum and the Orcas Island Farmers Market.
  • Orcas Island Lavender Farm: This working farm offers tours, workshops, and lavender products for sale.
  • Obstruction Pass State Park: This park has hiking trails, a sandy beach, and stunning views of the San Juan Islands.
  • Moran State Park: This park has hiking trails, a campground, and a museum.



Here are some of the best things to do on Orcas Island:


  • Whale watching: Orcas Island is a great place to see orcas. There are a number of companies that offer whale watching tours.
  • Hiking: There are a variety of hiking trails to explore on Orcas Island.
  • Biking: There are also a number of bike paths to ride on Orcas Island.
  • Kayaking: There are a number of kayak and canoe rentals on Orcas Island.
  • Fishing: There are a number of fishing charters available on Orcas Island.
  • Shopping: There are a variety of shops to explore in Friday Harbor and Eastsound.
  • Dining: There are a variety of restaurants to choose from on Orcas Island, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
  • Relaxing: Orcas Island is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.


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