Fall on Orcas Island feels like a secret well worth sharing. As the summer crowds thin out, the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands shifts into something quieter and more colorful. Maple leaves blaze with reds and golds, and the crisp air is perfect for exploring the incredible array of things to do on Orcas Island. The San Juan Islands in Washington State offer a slower pace and breathtaking surroundings, ideal for a seasonal reset.
Whether you’re coming for the hikes, the harbor towns, or just the kind of peace you can’t find in cities like Seattle, fall is an unbeatable time to hop aboard the Orcas Island Ferry and come for a visit. When it comes to things to do on Orcas Island in the fall, there’s no shortage of options. Moran State Park is a must with its miles of hiking and biking trails and panoramic views from Mount Constitution. You can spend a day browsing art galleries in Eastsound, tasting your way through the local food scene, or heading out on the water to spot migrating whales.
There’s also something uniquely charming about the slower rhythm of island life this time of year. You can cozy up with a hot drink, take a drive through the changing landscape, or pick up something fresh from the farmers market before it wraps up for the season. Of course, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy all season long, but you’ll be just as happy with a great book, gorgeous water views, and a healthy dose of Island time. Whatever it is you’re looking for, you’ll find it at our Orcas Island hotel.Â
Located right at the Orcas Island Ferry Landing, our Orcas Island Hotel offers the kind of friendly and comfortable accommodations that make you want to stay a little longer. The onsite cafĂ© serves casual all-day dining, perfect whether you’re kicking off a day of island adventures or winding down from one. And with rooms that feel equal parts classic and cozy, you’ll have the ideal home base for exploring everything this season has to offer. Whether you’re planning a quick escape or a longer stay, our hotel is one of the best places to stay on Orcas Island. Book your fall trip today!
The Best Things to Do on Orcas Island
When it comes to itinerary planning in the San Juans, there’s no one way to do it. Whether you’re looking for a trip that checks off the boxes of all the best things to do on Orcas Island, or a more spontaneous adventure that unfolds around every bend in the road, there’s no better time to get outside and see what Orcas Island has to offer than fall. The pace slows down just enough to give you space to breathe, explore, and actually enjoy the island without the summer crowds. Whether you’re up for a rugged hike or a scenic drive, the island’s landscape puts on a show this time of year.
With plenty of vibrant foliage, crisp mornings, and golden light filtering through the dense evergreens, everything in the San Juans feels a little more magical in the fall. From panoramic views at the top of Mount Constitution to quiet strolls along rocky beaches, it’s the perfect time of year to explore the most scenic islands in Washington State. Below, we offer a curated list of things to do on Orcas Island this fall.Â
What To Do on Orcas Island This Fall
- One of the top-rated things to do on Orcas Island throughout the year is whale watching. We’ll be in peak whale watching season from now through October, which means there’s still plenty of time for spotting orcas, humpbacks, and other marine wildlife. We recommend the team at Outer Island Expeditions.
- Hiking to Mount Constitution is always at the top of our list of things to do on Orcas Island, no matter the season. This is the highest point in the San Juan Islands, and the views are unbeatable. On a clear fall day, you can see all the way to Mount Baker and beyond. Add in a few fall colors bursting through the trees, and you have the perfect fall afternoon at your fingertips.Â
- Mount Constitution is just one of the ways to explore Moran State Park. Beyond Mount Constitution, this expansive park has lakes, waterfalls, and quiet trails perfect for hiking or biking. Rent a kayak from Orcas Adventures, and you’ll be experiencing one of our favorite fall things to do on Orcas Island.Â
- Get out on the water and enjoy one of the most scenic things to do on Orcas Island. Though there’s no kayaking or paddleboarding near our hotel at The Landing, there’s plenty of Orcas Island kayaking at other harbors around the island. You can rent or bring your own paddlecraft, or you can join a guided tour with local companies, including our friends at Outer Island Expeditions.Â
- For a quintessential look at the season, head out for a day trip along the Orcas Island Scenic Byway. Fall colors make this drive extra special. Winding roads lead through forested hills, waterfront stretches, and quiet rural pockets. It’s a great way to see the island and discover hidden gems along the way.
- While you’re out for a drive, don’t miss the chance to explore Eastsound Village. This charming town is the island’s unofficial downtown. You’ll find cozy coffee shops, local art galleries, and small boutiques. It’s a great place to grab a warm drink, pick up a souvenir, or just take a slow stroll.
- Taste Local Flavors at the Farmers Market, held in Eastsound on Saturdays through much of the fall. The Orcas Island Farmers Market is packed with produce, handmade goods, and community charm. Grab snacks for a picnic (if you haven’t already ordered a to-go meal from our onsite CafĂ©!), or gifts to take home.
- If you’re looking for quieter, more artistic things to do on Orcas Island, don’t miss Orcas Island Pottery. It’s the oldest pottery studio in the Pacific Northwest and is home to some of the most unique, handcrafted pottery in the region.Â
- Alternatively, head to Orcas Island Artworks, located in a historic building in Olga. This gallery showcases local artists across a variety of mediums. It’s a creative and inspiring stop, especially on a rainy fall afternoon.
- Take a quiet, restorative walk on the beach, followed by an unforgettable island sunset. It’s one of the best things to do on Orcas Island this fall. One of our favorite local beaches is Crescent Beach in Eastsound. The views here in the fall are stunning, especially as the sun drops low in the sky and reflects off the water. Bring a blanket, maybe something warm to sip, and settle in for a quiet end to your day.
A Friendly Stay at Orcas Island Hotels
After a day of exploring all the best things to do on Orcas Island, there’s nothing better than coming back to a place that feels like home. The Orcas Hotel sits right at the ferry landing, which means your island escape starts the moment you arrive. The location couldn’t be more convenient for setting out on adventures or relaxing in between. Whether you’re road-tripping through the San Juan Islands or planning a longer stay, this historic hotel is perfectly positioned to make the most of your fall getaway.
Built in 1904, the Orcas Hotel blends old-school charm with modern comfort. Each guest room is thoughtfully decorated and designed for relaxation, offering cozy touches and views that remind you you’re somewhere special. And they do it all without losing any of their historic character! The casual atmosphere makes it easy to unwind, whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee on the porch or catching up on a book before dinner. Just like the island paradise that surrounds us, you’ll find the pace here calm and easy but never dull.
Hospitality at The Orcas Hotel is friendly, personal, and always welcoming, and it’s what sets us apart as one of the best Orcas Island hotels. Guests are treated more like regulars than visitors (and many of them are regulars, too!), and the staff goes out of their way to make your stay feel special. The onsite cafĂ© serves all-day meals, so you can grab breakfast before a hike or enjoy dinner without having to leave the comfort of the property. You can even order food to go and take it with you for added simplicity.
This fall, let the Orcas Hotel be more than just a place to stay. Let it be the reason you come back. Book your trip, and enjoy the myriad things to do on Orcas Island this fall!