Wander Orcas Island: Activities Guide

Discover the Magic of Orcas Island: Top Activities for an Unforgettable Experience 

Photo courtesy of San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

Embark on an unforgettable adventure on Orcas Island, nestled in the heart of Washington State's San Juan archipelago. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Orcas Island offers a myriad of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're craving the thrill of sailing through pristine waters, immersing yourself in the local craft beer scene at a charming brewery, or seeking encounters with majestic wildlife on a boat tour, Orcas Island has something for everyone. Here, we'll dive into our top three recommendations, showcasing the best of what Orcas Island has to offer for an unforgettable getaway.

Outer Island Excursions

Photo courtesy of Outer Island Excursions

Distance from Wander: 7 miles

Location: 1608 Rosario Rd, Eastsound, WA 98245

Hours: 9AM-8PM dail (Tour times vary)

Phone: (360) 376-3711

Website: https://www.outerislandx.com/ 

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with San Juan Islands' premier whale watching tours departing from Anacortes, Lopez Island, and Orcas Island. Led by experienced captains and naturalist guides, these tours offer a chance to witness a diverse array of wildlife, including Sea Otters, Harbor Seals, Bald Eagles, and more, against the stunning backdrop of the islands' breathtaking scenery. Choose from a variety of tour options, including the classic whale & orca tour and the exclusive orca only tour, ensuring an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Plus, explore additional outdoor activities like kayak tours, rentals, custom fishing charters, and the newly introduced bird watching tour, promising an immersive island experience like no other.

Island Hoppin Brewery

Photo courtesy of Island Hoppin Brewery

Distance from Wander: 10.6 miles

Location: 33 Hope Ln, Eastsound, WA 98245

Hours: 11AM–9PM daily

Phone: (360) 376-6079

Website: https://www.islandhoppinbrewery.com/#home 

Established in 2012, Island Hoppin’ Brewery is Orcas Island's first and only microbrewery, dedicated to crafting quality beers with locally sourced ingredients. Founders Nate and Becca Schons, along with their original partner Jim Parker, began brewing in their garage and have since grown their operations while maintaining their hands-on approach. With a family-friendly, community-focused atmosphere, IHB offers a variety of beers on tap, from seasonal lagers to barrel-aged sours, ensuring there's something for every beer enthusiast.

Tip: If you have some extra time, immerse yourself in the exquisite world of wine at Orcas Island's premier boutique family vineyard & winery, established in 2011. Nestled against the inspiring backdrop of Turtleback Mountain, their modern farmhouse winery offers a charming tasting room, a cozy wine garden, and stunning views of the Pacific Northwest. Indulge in up to 10 locally crafted wines, including reds, whites, rosé, and sparkling varieties, each meticulously curated to capture the essence of the region. Check out the website for more information: https://www.orcasislandwinery.com/. 

Orcas Island Sailing

Photo courtesy of Orcas Island Sailing

Distance from Wander: 3.4 miles

Location: 1945 Obstruction Pass Rd, Olga, WA 98279

Hours: 9AM-6PM daily 

Phone: (360) 310-0100

Website: https://www.orcassailing.com/ 

At Orcas Sailing, their mission is clear: to offer an enjoyable sailing experience for San Juan Islands visitors. With private charters available, guests can learn to sail with their own companions, ensuring a personalized adventure. Orcas Sailing provides boat rentals and private sailing lessons tailored to individual skill levels, promising an unforgettable day on the water.