There are plenty of unique and memorable things to do on Orcas Island, but one of the most unique and memorable is a visit to Orcas Island Pottery. Known as one of the oldest pottery studios in Washington State, this creative haven is a charming reflection of the Island’s innovative spirit and a true destination for art lovers. The property overlooks the water, with whimsical gardens, rustic buildings, and shelves filled with colorful, handcrafted pieces.
For anyone planning an Orcas Island getaway this fall, Orcas Island Pottery is a must-see stop that combines the best of what people love about this place into one charming stop. It is, however, just one of the many things waiting for you in the San Juan Islands this fall. Fall is a particularly inviting time to plan a trip, with crisp air, vibrant autumn foliage, and fewer crowds. Hike the scenic trails at Moran State Park, take in sweeping views from the top of Mount Constitution, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting at local vineyards. Whale watching tours still operate during the season, offering a chance to see orcas and other wildlife in the waters surrounding the island.
When the day’s adventures wind down, our Orcas Island Hotel offers the ideal retreat, complete with its own historic Island charm. Located near the ferry landing, this historic property serves as an excellent base for exploring everything the island has to offer. Guests enjoy thoughtfully designed rooms, delicious dining, and the kind of hospitality that makes a getaway feel special. Book your stay today!
Get Artsy at Orcas Island Pottery & More
Orcas Island Pottery has been a creative landmark since 1954, making it the oldest pottery studio in the Pacific Northwest. Tucked into the lush island landscape, the Orcas Island Pottery Studio welcomes visitors with a mix of rustic charm and artistic energy. Its shelves are lined with vibrant, functional pieces ranging from mugs and bowls to large decorative works, each crafted by local artisans who pour their creativity into every detail. The space serves as both an art gallery and a working studio, showcasing craftsmanship at the forefront of your shopping experience.Â
What makes Orcas Pottery so special is not just the pottery on display. The setting puts Orcas Island’s beauty on full display. Perched above the water on a 100-foot bluff overlooking President’s Channel, Orcas Island Pottery offers visitors breathtaking views of the Salish Sea. Their gardens and quirky outdoor displays, tucked between the towering Douglas Firs and Old-Growth forest, add to the whimsy of the experience.
Visitors are encouraged to wander through the grounds, peek into the working studio, and shop for one-of-a-kind keepsakes to take home. Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who appreciates handmade work, stopping at Orcas Island Pottery is certainly one of the most unique things to do on Orcas Island. It sits just outside Eastsound and is only 15 minutes from our Hotel, making it a convenient stop to tuck in between adventures, too.Â
Orcas Island Pottery is one of the many art galleries, studios, and museums worth exploring while you’re in the San Juan Islands. The Island actually has quite a bit of art and culture at its roots, and you can find everything from pottery and jewelry to painting and sculpture. Below, we’ve listed a few more art studios and galleries to explore while visiting Orcas Island.
Orcas Island Art Galleries & More
- Orcas Island Artworks is a cooperative gallery showcasing local artists in a historic building.
- Crow Valley Gallery, featuring an impressive collection of ceramics, paintings, and sculptures
- The Orcas Center, a community hub for performing and visual arts, with rotating exhibits
- Wandering Soul Art Gallery, a small cooperative gallery in Eastsound, showcases works by local artists.Â
- The Peter C. Fisher Gallery showcases the works of this talented local photographer. Â
Unwind At our Orcas Island Hotel
A trip to Orcas Island Pottery or any of these other local galleries and studios is a great way to connect with the Island’s local authenticity. If embracing the Island’s history and character is at the forefront of your getaway, there’s truly no better place to stay than the historic Orcas Hotel. Just a short drive from the studio, our Orcas Island Hotel offers a welcoming place to unwind after a day of exploring. Its historic charm and thoughtful amenities create the perfect balance for your getaway, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on Orcas Island without the stress of logistics.
Guests at The Orcas Hotel find themselves in the heart of island life, close to favorite attractions like Moran State Park, whale watching tours, and of course, Orcas Pottery. We’re steps away from the Orcas Island Ferry Landing, and offer onsite dining from breakfast through dinner at the Orcas Cafe. The hotel’s inviting rooms and relaxed atmosphere provide the ideal retreat, whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch, indulging in fresh, locally inspired meals, or simply watching the ferries come and go. It’s an experience that gives the best of Washington State hospitality with easy access to the Island’s most memorable destinations.
By choosing The Orcas Hotel as your base, you can fully enjoy the unique creativity of Orcas Island Pottery, along with the many other things to do on Orcas Island. Each day offers the chance to explore, then return to a hotel that feels both timeless and welcoming. This combination of local artistry and warm hospitality creates an unforgettable trip filled with beauty, culture, and genuine connection. Book your stay at one of the most authentic Orcas Island Hotels today!