If you’re looking for fall destinations that are just as stunning as the journey to get there, it’s time you booked your adventure on the Orcas Island Ferry. This is the kind of place that makes every moment of the travel feel worth it. Tucked into the heart of the San Juan Islands, this island is all rolling farmland, forested trails, rocky shorelines, and quiet harbor towns. There’s a nearly endless list of things to do on Orcas Island, and it offers an escape that feels both low-key and breathtaking.
Getting here means leaving the mainland behind, and that’s exactly the point. To reach Orcas Island, you’ll most likely need to take the Orcas Island Ferry, and planning ahead is the key to making it a smooth part of your trip. The San Juan Island ferries are managed by the Washington State Ferry system, with boats departing from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. Whether you’re traveling from Seattle to the San Juan Islands or just hopping over from another island, understanding the San Juan Ferry Schedule and securing an Orcas Island Ferry reservation will make all the difference.
The ferry ride itself is a highlight, with views of the water, surrounding islands, and the occasional marine wildlife. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find plenty to do, from hiking in Moran State Park and exploring Eastsound Village to visiting local farms, soaking in seaside views, or simply enjoying the slower pace of island life. When your ferry docks, our hotel will be waiting for you, right at the Orcas Island Ferry Terminal.
This historic property has been welcoming guests since 1904 and offers a comfortable place to land at the start or end of your journey. With well-appointed guest rooms, a relaxed and casual vibe, and an all-day café serving delicious food, it’s an ideal base for exploring the island or just soaking in the scenery from the porch. Staying here means you can watch the ferry arrive and depart from your window while enjoying some of the friendliest hospitality in the San Juan Islands. Book your getaway to Orcas Island today!
What to Know About the Orcas Island Ferry
Though you can fly from cities like Seattle to Orcas Island, most people arrive in the San Juan Islands via ferry. So, for most, planning a trip to Orcas Island starts with understanding how to navigate the Orcas Island Ferry. The San Juan Island Ferry system serves as the primary connection between the mainland and the San Juan Islands. Not every boat that leaves Anacortes ends up at The Landing, so it’s essential you read the schedule and plan your trip carefully.
All San Juan Island ferry trips start at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, about 80 miles northwest of Seattle. From there, the ferries take you across calm coastal water to various islands and towns, including the Orcas Island Ferry Terminal (aka The Landing) in Orcas Village. It’s a scenic ride that usually lasts about 60 to 75 minutes, often with stops at Lopez or Shaw Island, depending on the route. Whether you’re driving or walking on, the ferry is an essential part of the journey. With a little planning, it can be just as relaxing as the destination itself.
Orcas Island Ferry service runs year-round with seasonal schedule shifts. Summer and early fall tend to be the busiest times, so it’s important to make an Orcas Island Ferry reservation in advance if you’re bringing a vehicle. Reservations are released in three waves: two months (~30% of the spaces), two weeks (another ~30% of the spaces), and two days before each sailing (the final 30% of the spaces). The final 10% of spaces are reserved for emergency vehicles and last-minute availability. While there’s no cost to reserve, you’ll need a credit card to hold your spot.Â
If you’re walking on, biking, or just taking a day trip, you can skip the reservation altogether, though it’s still smart to arrive early. For vehicle travelers, aim to be at the terminal at least 45 to 60 minutes ahead of departure. If you’re leaving from Orcas on a weekend or holiday, even earlier is better. It’s important to remember that reservations aren’t tickets; you’ll still need to purchase a ticket and claim your reservations once you arrive at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal.Â
The San Juan Ferry Schedule includes several sailings between Anacortes and Orcas Island each day. During peak seasons, there are typically five to six round trips daily, with early morning and evening options. You can check real-time schedules and ferry status updates through the WSDOT website. Once you arrive at the Orcas Island Ferry Terminal, you’ll find limited parking, a waiting area, and a small market nearby. You’ll also find one of the island’s most welcoming places to stay, The Orcas Hotel, located just steps from the terminal.
To get back to the mainland when you’re trip is done, you’ll follow the same process. The best part is you can sit in our Orcas Island restaurant, overlooking the terminal, with a drink or a casual bite to eat while you wait (and watch) for your ferry! Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay in the San Juan Islands, the Orcas Island Ferry ride is your first glimpse of island life, and with the right prep, it can be part of the adventure rather than a hurdle.
A Stay At Our Historic Hotel on Orcas Island
A ride on the Orcas Island Ferry is more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It sets the tone for your whole trip. The moment the ferry pulls away from Anacortes, the mainland begins to fade and the islands come into view, bringing with them a sense of calm and adventure. By the time you reach the Orcas Island Ferry Terminal, you’re already feeling like you’re on vacation. And the best part? You’re just steps away from one of the most welcoming places to stay in the San Juan Islands.
The Orcas Hotel sits right at the landing, making it the perfect place to start or end your island escape. This historic hotel on Orcas Island has been greeting travelers since 1904, and it still offers the same laid-back charm and genuine hospitality that made it a favorite more than a century ago. Inside, the rooms are cozy, historic, and well-appointed, each with its own personality and view. Some look out over the water and ferry landing, while others face our beautiful gardens and grounds. Every space feels intentional and relaxed, giving you room to slow down and settle in.
More than just a place to sleep, our hotel on Orcas Island is an excellent place to stay awhile. The all-day cafĂ© is a favorite for guests and locals alike, serving everything from coffee and breakfast sandwiches to hearty lunches and casual dinners, with takeout options for all your island adventures. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before a hike or watching the sun dip behind the ferry from your seat on the porch, the atmosphere is easygoing and friendly.
As far as Orcas Island Hotels go, this one has the kind of charm and convenience that make you want to book an extra night. With its prime location, warm hospitality, and effortless vibe, The Orcas Hotel is your ideal home base for exploring the San Juan Islands. Book your stay today!