National GeographicOct 13
When Visiting the San Juan Islands, Don't Sleep on Orcas
Home to Mount Constitution, the highest point in the archipelago, it is a paradise for hikers, bikers, kayakers, and whale watchers—and anyone who loves slow-paced time spent outdoors.
most populous of the islands
20 things in this story
- San Juan IslandNeighborhoodmost populous of the islands
- Outer Island ExcursionsPlacewhale watching tours, offers free return trip if no whale seen
- Elsewhere
- Mount ConstitutionSightEastsound, United Stateshighest point in the archipelago, paradise for outdoor activities
- Orcas IslandNeighborhoodEastsound, United Stateslargest of the San Juan Islands by land mass
- Moran State ParkNature reserveEastsound, United Statesmore than 40 miles of trails, ascends Mount Constitution
- Mount Constitution Observation TowerSightEastsound, United Stateshistoric tower with 360-degree views
- Obstruction Pass State ParkTrailEastsound, United Statesshort hike leads to a public beach
- Turtleback Mountain PreserveTrailEastsound, United Statespopular hiking area with eight miles of trails
- Wildlife CyclesPlaceEastsound, United Statesrents bikes, including e-bikes, in Eastsound
- Cascade LakeSightEastsound, United Stateskayak or paddleboard around the lake
- Sugar ShackRestaurantEastsound, United Statesoffers delicious ice cream cones
- Shearwater Kayak ToursPlaceDeer Harbor, United Statesguided tours departing from Deer Harbor
- Forest Ceramic Co.PlaceEastsound, United Statesshowcase for porcelain wares handcrafted on the island
- Orcas Island PotteryPlaceEastsound, United Statesoldest pottery studio in the Pacific Northwest
- Orcas ArtworksPlaceEastsound, United Statesartist co-op near Moran State Park
- HoulmeRestaurantEastsound, United Stateswood-fired sourdough-crust pizzas and small plates
- MatiaRestaurantEastsound, United Stateshyperseasonal six- or ten-course tasting menu
- Brown Bear BakingBakeryEastsound, United Statescroissant or pastry, often has a line
- Kenmore AirPlaceSeattle, United Statesseaplane excursion from Seattle to Orcas
- Orcas Island Car RentalPlaceEastsound, United Statescar rental company on the island