Hello,

We are planning a trip to Orcas Island and would love to hear anyone's advice on where to stay, places to eat, things to do, spots to see, etc. Anyone?

I went to Orcas Island about three years ago and stayed at the Anchorage Inn. Check it out at http://www.anchorageonorcas.com/

I really liked the property and would definitely stay there again.

We were only there for two days, so we didn't do much. I do remember that the views from Mt. Constitution were beautiful, and we really enjoyed hiking around the park.

Have a wonderful trip!!

Just returned forma week in the San Juans. Stayed on Orcas for two nights in a condo near Rosario as there we were a group of gals traveling together.
There are manay choices of accommodations that are more charming a nd cozy if you a are a couple.
I would suggest you stay near East Sound as it is the most central part of teh island. However, nothing is terribly far away.
There are lots of shops and gallery to visit.
I would recommend Bilbos & the Sunflower Cafe for lunch.
Inn at Ships Harbor or Sean Pauls for dinner.
You should definitely visit Rosario Resort and check out the museum upstairs. Very interesting history but the resort itself is getting a bit tired and the restaurants are not up to par with others of similar price on the island.
Depending on your level of activity, you could kayak, hike around Mt Constitution or check in to a whale watching charter.
How many days will you be on the island ??
Happy Traveling,
Brenda

Hi jcb and wallybrenda,

Thanks for the replies.
We'll likely only be there three days.
It just looks like a great getaway for a long weekend. Thanks so much for the recommendations. We looked at Rosario Resort and I think we'd prefer a
more private, secluded location over a resort type of place. Somewhere with walking trails and the water nearby, and in close distance to the shops, restaurants (we are total foodies by the way) and galleries. A pool and spa would be great, too.

I can't wait! By the way, does anyone know when is the weather best there?

Thanks so much!

::bump::

Check out Otters Pond b&b if you're looking for something secluded. http://www.otterspond.com/
They offer a full gourmet breakfast and the grounds are beautiful. I can't remember how far it was for shopping as this was 2 years ago, but my husband and I really enjoyed the inn. You could walk around the grounds and there were decks all around the house where you could sit for evening cocktails, etc.

We went last summer and had a delightful stay at the Place at Cayou Cove, a B&B. I still swear it was the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in. Beautiful setting, very nice hosts, really good breakfasts. Everywhere you look there was something pretty to see (she used to collect antiques as I recall). And we met the nicest people at breakfasts. I can't recommend it enough. Our room was in the "Inn", in the room looking out over the harbor.

Also while there, go see the place with the kinetic art sculptures. They are metal sculptures that move as the wind blows them. Incredible workmanship.

The Kangaroo House B&B is supposed to be very good. My husband's aunt and husband own the place. They were recently voted the friendliest Innkeepers. It is located on Orcas Island. ***kim***

Hello we went to Orcas Islands in July of 2001. We stayed at the Rosario Resort which was great except if you are a couple and want romance DO NOT GO in July or August, perhaps after SEPT when kids are back in school. We wanted to relax at the gorgeous pool/bar area that they have on their website and brochures. Instead it was as though the Flintstone's had moved in and were jumping, splashing, screaming, and kids were everywhere. They have another big pool that parents and kids could go too but kids are everywhere and the hotel has not posted any rules as to where kids can go. We were very disappointed.
The spa services were nice. Rooms were well appointed and spacious. The food was excellent and we enjoyed strolling to bf, lunch, and dinner at the main dining room. After hours it is hard to find food even at The Tavern.

If you want to rent kayaks don't make the mistake we did and bring all of your gear and try to rent them on your own. YOU CAN NOT RENT KAYAKS ON YOUR OWN...(Unless you find the gypsy lady on the beach with a glass driveway on one of the bays...) YOU MUST GO WITH A GROUP!!!

Hiking is great. Shops are fun and the wild deer on the island are great. You can hand feed them and even pet them.

Overall a good experience.

I have heard that there is a place called deerharbor, deer inn or something that is very romantic and great for couples. Kangaroo House looks nice too.

Anyway, our two cents....

Al and Cindy

Thanks everyone! We're still planning this vacation. We just got back from Kauai and Maui.