Things To Do Whilst on a Visit To the Pacific Northwest's Orcas Island

At the northern coast of Washington State is Orcas Island – the largest island in the San Juan county. It is home to a rich variety of landscape of mountains, a breathtaking countryside, pastoral valleys, scenic ridges, elegant parks & lakes – all providing stunning views to the locals and travelers alike. Hop on a sailing yacht in the Pacific Northwest and sail on the crystal clear waters to reach Orcas island for either a day trip or extended vacation.

Whether you want to go for sailing, kayaking, watching orca whales, or just relax by the shore and watch the sun sink across the ocean waters, Orcas Island has it all! If you're planning a family trip or you're an adventure enthusiast looking for a memorable experience, here are some helpful resources that will help you plan your next trip to Orcas Island.

HIKING ON ORCAS ISLAND – Orcas Island is home to so many great hikes, and so it is difficult to hike them all during your stay. Moran State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails with varied difficulty levels. The biggest plus is all the hikes offer eye-captivating vistas of the unique and stunningly beautiful surroundings. In Turtleback Mountain Preserve, the hiker can take in fantastic views to the south and west during your hike. You can find hikes around lakes and waterfalls, as well as old-growth forest as a protective canopy.

CYCLING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING – One of the best ways to explore Orcas Island is on two wheels. There are cycling and mountain biking options for both the casual rider and more experienced cyclists as well. For nine months, i.e. from September to May many hiking trails in Moran State Park are opened for mountain biking. For a whole new vacation experience, it is advised to rent a bike for the duration of your stay. You can spend your vacation traveling at a slower speed which will allow you to take in more of the scenery.

EXPLORE OBSTRUCTION PASS STATE PARK – On the famed Orcas Island, Obstruction Pass State Park is one of the few public beaches. Its quiet beauty is unsurpassed! Take in the eye-captivating vistas as the opal waters lap at pebbly beaches. The Ricky viewpoints entice picnickers, birders, lovebirds and youthful explorers. The park is one of the few spots on Orcas Island with access to more than one mile of publicly-owned saltwater shoreline. The views on the trail from the parking area down to the beach at Obstruction Pass State Park will surely lure your senses.

ENJOY VARIOUS WATER ACTIVITIES – Water activities are always a hit around the island with such beautiful scenery and so many protected coves. Whether you're interested in guided excursions like whale watching or kayaking – there is something for everyone. You can also be part of island hopping, fishing, crabbing and private wildlife tours. Along with the same, harbor tours, sunset cruises and marine state park adventures are also some of the activities you can be part of during your visit to Orcas Island.

TAKE A STROLL THROUGH THE ORCAS VILLAGE – While on your visit, if you have not taken a stroll through the village to learn about the history and culture, your visit remains incomplete. The village boasts many shops, restaurants, and gift shops where you can shop for the local artifacts or try out local cuisines. You can also pay an ear to the enthralling tales shared by the locals. The guide will tell you about the glorious past of the Orcas Island. Do not forget to get some social media pics.

SHOP AT THE HEART OF ORCAS ISLAND – Take some time to stroll through the town of Eastsound. Take in the amazing waterfront views and enjoy the local shops, bakeries, restaurants and art galleries while enjoying the laid-back pace of this small island town. There are often community actives taking place in this village. Here, you'll find local organic produce, crafts, art, jewelry, clothing, pottery for sale - all of which is grown or crafted by Orcas farmers and artisans.

The above mentioned activities are all highlights that shouldn’t be missed during your trip to Orcas Island on board your own private luxury sailing yacht in the Pacific Northwest, and it will surely make your vacation a memorable fiesta.