Summer on Orcas Island

Things to Do on Orcas Island in Summer — A Local's Guide

For the full deep-dive of stays, restaurants, ferries, and everything else, head to our Orcas Island Travel Guide →

Summer on Orcas Island is the thing people plan their whole year around. Long golden days, the farmers market running full tilt, kayaks in the water, and a ferry line that forces you to slow down before you even arrive. It's worth every bit of planning it takes.

Here's what we actually do when we're there.

Get on the Water

Summer is when Orcas fully opens up. Swim at Mountain Lake, it’s cold, clear, mineral-rich, and the kind of water that resets everything. Jump off the dock at Cascade Lake. Kayak the coastline if you can. Watch for whales. They show up when they feel like it and it will stop you completely.

Hike Something

Drive up Mt. Constitution for panoramic views across the islands. It's the highest point in the San Juans and on a clear summer day you can see all the way to Vancouver. Hike Turtleback Mountain for a steeper climb and stunning reward. Walk to Obstruction Pass for a forested trail that opens onto a quiet beach… bring a picnic, stay a while.

Eat Well and Slowly

Summer is when everything is open and running at full tilt. Doe Bay Cafe for a slow meal by the water. Orcas Hotel right at the ferry landing for drinks and good energy whether you're just arriving or catching the last boat home. Matthew's Smokehouse for cornhole in the yard and local fish on the plate. Olga Rising early for pastries before they sell out. The Barnacle for a sea-toned cocktail and a reason to stay out a little later than you planned.

Soak at Doe Bay (if you’re staying there)

The clothing-optional soaking tubs at Doe Bay Resort are the thing people mean when they say "the Orcas vibe." Go if you stay there. Bring nothing. Stay until you've lost track of time.

Find the Slow Stuff

Browse Darvill's Bookstore in Eastsound. Stop at Girl Meets Dirt for jam. Find purple shells at low tide. Lie on a driftwood log and look at the water. Orcas in the summer doesn't require an itinerary, it just requires showing up and letting the place do what it does.

Planning a trip or family reunion on Orcas Island? We shoot here every summer and know this island well.
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