San Juan Islands for Families on a Budget

The largest of the San Juan Islands, Orcas is about 60 square miles, but you can cover the main roads by car in just a few hours. That is, unless you’re like me and pull over every time you see a sign that reads “berries” or “pottery.”

This pastoral island is patchworked with swatches of farmland, pockets of forest and small island villages. Orcas Island falls short on public beach access, though this con is made up for by a very big pro: massive Moran State Park, with its two freshwater lakes and very own mountain. Hike (or drive) to the top of Mount Constitution to get a view of the surrounding straits. You have to see it to believe it.

Things to do on Orcas Island

Ramble up a lush forested hill on Turtleback Mountain, or circle Mountain Lake at Moran State Park (a Discover Pass is required to park). Much of the island is made up of small family-run farms, and you’ll find that many of them are open (with alpacas to pet) on weekends, selling eggs, fruit and pottery (see the list of local farms).

All these farms convene at the Orcas Island Farmers Market on summer Saturdays, May–September. The Funhouse Commons (30 Pea Patch Lane) is an activity center for kids and families; check the website for current programs.

Lodging on Orcas Island

A longtime favorite place to lodge is Doe Bay Resort, on the island’s far eastern shore. No longer the hippie haven it once was, Doe Bay still has plenty of counterculture vibe and organic charm (yes, those famous clothing-optional hot tubs). Accommodations include cabins with kitchenettes, off-the-grid yurts and campsites. The seasonal menu served by the on-site Doe Bay Café is tasty enough for foodies, yet accommodating for small picky eaters.

After the recent acquisition of a neighboring inn, Rosario Resort & Spa (renamed Rosario Village) has more affordable accommodation options, with harborside rooms, kitchen suites (a major bonus for my family) and spacious decks, located right on the shores of Cascade Bay. Outlook Inn, in downtown Eastsound, offers a variety of choices for families, from suites with harbor views to European-style rooms with shared bathrooms.

Nearby Moran State Park boasts the cheapest sleeps on Orcas: lakefront campsites just steps from a swimming beach and hiking trails.

Restaurants on Orcas Island

You’ll find a small selection of restaurants in Eastsound with options to suit all families. We love the New Leaf Café at Outlook Inn for its French-inspired breakfast and the perfect cup of coffee, followed by a morning spent browsing Darvill’s Bookstore and its wonderful collection of children’s books across the street. For a quick espresso drink and artisan-baked croissant, hit up Brown Bear Baking.

Next stop: San Juan Island