Orcas Island – The Gem of the San Juans

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You start to get a sense of peace as soon as the ferry pulls out of Anacortes and heads for the San Juan Islands. As the ferry winds its way through the mesmerizing and ever-changing waters of the Salish Sea and emerald green islands, time instantly slows down and thus the mind relaxes.

Orcas Island is the largest of the four ferry-serviced islands. Winding and curvy roads meander through rolling fields and lush forests. The slower and sweeter pace of life is palpable. Orcas Island charms with its vibrant arts and culture, lush forests, sparkling lakes and serene beaches and coves. It certainly offers lots of opportunities to play for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The horse-shoe shaped island is dotted with small hamlets – or villages – as the locals call them. Every village has its own flavor, therefore you can find something for everybody! Foodies, as well as art enthusiasts, have a wide selection of local delectable samplings to choose from.  Eastsound, the largest of the villages, has a weekly farmers market and a fantastic food co-op in addition to a supermarket and a good amount of restaurants and shops for the more discerning shoppers.

Have a look at our listings on Orcas Island

Are you looking for a private permanent home or get-away? Orcas Island has you covered. Housing ranges from simple cabins, hillside water view homes, and waterfront retreats to sprawling old island estates. And of course there are lots of options in between!

Welcome to Tidewinds! This old island estate has a 4 bedroom and 2.5 bathroom farmhouse that was built in 1910. The detached guest cottage offers another 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. Other highlights include a heated indoor pool, a hot tub with a view, an old barn and 5-car detached garage among other outbuildings. Click here for more info!
Rare Rosario Retreat! Enjoy filtered water views and lots of privacy in this contemporary 3 bedroom/2.5 bathroom home. A large screened-in porch and an expansive deck extend the living to the outdoors. Fully furnished and ready to move in! Click here for more info!
Waterfront Paradise! This charming 2 bedroom cottage has 180 degree water views! Stairs lead down to a beach shared with one neighbor. The property is comprised of two tax parcels for a total to 6.8 acres. A detached studio/workspace offers a multitude of possibilities.
Click here for more info!
Serene Rosario Retreat! This contemporary 3 bedroom Northwest-style home looks out over the waters of Eastsound. Nestled in the trees for privacy it has an open concept great room with vaulted ceilings and a wall of windows! The wrap-around new deck offers lots of room to entertain, BBQ, lounge and relax. Click here for more info!

And there is more of course

Are you curious what else is available on Orcas Island? For example being on close to the water or having a water view, nestled in the woods or looking over rolling fields. Or maybe you would prefer to be close to the heart of Eastsound Village? Click here to see a variety of properties on Orcas Island!

One finds quite a bit of vacant land as well on Orcas Island. If you ever had the dream of building your own home, click here to see all currently available Vacant Land on Orcas Island!

Pictures courtesy of Wes Edholm, Erin Bennet, Kathryn Bowes and Bob Shipstad

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