One of approximately 175 islands located north of Seattle in the San Juan Island archipelago of Puget Sound, Orcas Island has 125 miles of salt water coastline. Its 57+ square miles offer a variety of terrain with lush valleys, mountain peaks, and fresh water lakes.
About 4,500 full time residents are scattered throughout the Island’s village, pastoral, mountain, and marine settings. Orcas Island is known as the “Gem of the San Juans,” and accessible from the mainland by Washington State Ferry, by airline from Sea-Tac airport at Seattle, or by private boat or plane.
Located in the banana belt of northwest Washington, Orcas Island enjoys over 260 days of sunshine, receiving less than 22 inches of rain per year, which is much less than the surrounding mainland. Home to flourishing gardens, bird sanctuaries and wetlands, wildlife is abundant: local land and water is populated by eagles, otter, whales, deer, raccoons, squirrel and mink. Local waters offer some of the west coast’s best fishing with abundant salmon and rock cod for the catching in season.
Orcas Island residents enjoy a surprisingly sophisticated lifestyle. Many fine restaurants, and all manner of business and services catering to every need make island living comfortable. Schools, churches, and a lively cultural environment at the Orcas Center add to the community.
This is the place for hiking trails through unspoiled forests or boating, sailing, and fishing. Orcas is an interesting demographic mix from young families to active retirees. We are well traveled, educated and independent people who share a love of nature and relaxed island living. This makes for a healthy growing community in a pristine natural setting.
