What to do in West Sound, WA

Activities, attractions and tours

Waldron Lookout, accessible via a spur trail at 1.5 miles up the northern trail. Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There are just a few open viewpoints, such as this one, but they do pack a punch. Beyond that, the forest scenery is just fantastic.
Waldron Lookout, accessible via a spur trail at 1.5 miles up the northern trail. Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There are just a few open viewpoints, such as this one, but they do pack a punch. Beyond that, the forest scenery is just fantastic.
Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There aren't many open viewpoints, but the forest scenery is just fantastic.
Now this made me remember the set location in once upon a time. Turtleback mountain preserve is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Orcas Island.
The trail up to turtleback mountain shows the leaves turning its color to the shades of fall. It was a delightful hike up. But admittedly the trail was steep but it didn't bother me since I get to really revel in the beauty of the rich foliage that surrounds me. #roadtrip #takeahike #ontheroad

West Sound Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that West Sound has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

West Sound is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in West Sound to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

West Sound Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of West Sound.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to West Sound attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

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What to do in West Sound

Discover the most popular places to visit in West Sound

If you haven't been to Orcas Island, go next summer. It is the most beautiful place I have ever been.

Eastsound Beaches

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Eastsound Beaches during your trip to Eastsound? Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

Eastsound Beaches
North Beach Inn is a collection of super cool beach cabins from the '50's on Orcas Island's north shore. Cozy as heck -- fireplaces, sea views, full kitchens, modern baths, vintage furniture, the odd creaky bed and no wifi but with a hot toddy and feet up you notice little but the charm of the moody, island weather. Nightly: $145 and up. • northbeachinn.com • #OrcasIsland #SanJuanIslands #inns #vintage

North Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at North Beach during your trip to Eastsound? Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

North Beach
Waldron Lookout, accessible via a spur trail at 1.5 miles up the northern trail. Turtleback Mountain is a wilderness-preservation success story. Recently the target of a development effort on Orcas Island, a popular weekend destination for people from Seattle, it was saved from that fate largely by the efforts of one man and his organization, Tim Seifert, executive director of the San Juan Preservation Trust. Thanks to their work, the mountain is now a wilderness area, in perpetuity. As a bonus, a network of trails is now available to allow hikers and sight-seers a chance to explore the mountain. The trails are beautiful and serene and not nearly as crowded as those on the more popular Mount Constitution, which sits on the other side of the island. There are just a few open viewpoints, such as this one, but they do pack a punch. Beyond that, the forest scenery is just fantastic.

Turtleback Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Turtleback Mountain during your travels in Eastsound. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Turtleback Mountain

Orcas Island Historical Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Orcas Island Historical Museum in Eastsound. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Orcas Island Historical Museum

Orcas Island Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Eastsound at Orcas Island Golf Course. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Orcas Island Golf Course

Skull Island State Park

You can take time to visit Skull Island State Park during your travels to Eastsound. Discover the sunsets while you're in the area.

Skull Island State Park

Darvill's Bookstore

Enjoy an outing to Darvill's Bookstore during your stay in Eastsound. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Darvill's Bookstore

Summit Learning Center

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Summit Learning Center during your trip to Eastsound. Wander the beaches or discover the area's sunsets.

Summit Learning Center

Mt. Constitution

Hike to the summit of the Orcas Island’s tallest peak for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Vancouver Island.

Mt. Constitution

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from West Sound

Orcas Island which includes street scenes

Eastsound

Frequently asked questions

Is West Sound worth visiting?
Whether you want to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or try regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in West Sound.
How do I spend a day in West Sound?
Start your adventures with a visit to Orcas Island Historical Museum and North Beach. Then, check out other areas of West Sound for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in West Sound?
Don't leave without checking out Orcas Island Historical Museum, rated the top tourist attraction in West Sound.
Is three days enough to stay in West Sound?
Three days is enough for a quick getaway to West Sound — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good feel for the place. But if you want to truly soak it all in, stay for at least a week or more to check out some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in West Sound with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in West Sound with kids.

What to do in West Sound for adults?
Darvill's Bookstore and Rosario Mansion Museum are just a couple of the things to do in West Sound. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in West Sound?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in West Sound is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. North Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.