My 8 year old son and I had a great experience here. We booked a one-hour horseback ride, but we…read moreended up getting an hour and half because they told us there was a group of wedding guests (this place does weddings) that had taken over the intended route with a post-wedding picnic, and they wanted us to have a more secluded experience. They gave us two wranglers for just the two of us, and both were knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. It's worth noting that the prices here are better than the other horseback riding outfit I'm aware of on the island that runs rides in Moran State Park. They don't actually seem to get a lot of business, even on mid-summer weekends -- which means that if you go with them you may well get a private tour like we did (hope they stay in business though!).

We went for a 2 hour ride yesterday and the experience was so positive I'm compelled to post here…read more I highly recommend these folks. Most importantly the care and consideration for the animals is obvious - from the kind of shoes they wear to how they introduce you to the animal. The grounds were impeccabley kept and a sprawling private experience. And the guide was born on the islands with a wonderful local perspective. I'm confident you'll feel good about going riding here. They were a little more money but well worth it.

The word is quaint. Yes, it's a cliche, but it's accurate. The staff at the front desk is super…read morehelpful, I believe we were helped by someone named Pluto, who was very patient with us . . . We had two little kids that were obsessed with the candy bowls, and my wife's elderly (we are of Indian origin) parents who . . . let's just say, they had a lot of interesting questions. The rooms were really nice...very clean and spacious. This place accommodates dogs. Let me rephrase, they welcome dogs. They had a cot for each of our dogs to sleep in, treats, poop bags, and a coupon for the neighborhood pet shop. I think it says a lot about a place when they welcome dogs with such open arms. Outlook Inn is also situated near the downtown area and is walking distance from some nice shops and restaurants. This doesn't count towards this rating but Orcas island was beautiful. I highly recommend you visit and stay at Outlook Inn, especially if you have a dog.

We enjoyed a little family getaway here! They've got pet-friendly rooms so it was perfect for us…read more Upon arrival, they had a little corner set up for our dog...dog bed, towels, and a treat bag! It was so cute!! It was an easy check in, friendly staff. The bay view suits are a pretty good size and the bed was comfy! The little kitchenette was handy to have, and was stocked with the basics. Great views and so close to everything. There are many stores and restaurants close by that are easy to walk to. The only little complaint we had was that the shower water could've been hotter. But other than that, it was an amazing stay! We will definitely be coming back to stay here!!

We stayed in the Madrona cabin which is the most private, secluded option. We loved having our own…read morehot tub and fire pit. The general store was well-stocked, Cameron at the front desk was helpful and friendly, and we loved being able to rent kayaks right on-property. Went at the end of April/early May and no issues with noise or crowdedness.

Beautiful Spot, Great Vibe -- But the Bar and Service Miss the Mark…read more This place could be amazing -- the location is beautiful and there's a genuinely fun, welcoming family atmosphere. You can tell someone put care into creating a space that feels relaxed and enjoyable. Unfortunately, that's where the good news ends. Disappointing - I rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was too frustrating to stay silent. I ordered a Chardonnay and was shocked to see the pour -- a measly 4 oz for $7.99. That's barely more than a tasting sample, and certainly not what you'd expect for the price. To make matters worse, they informed me there was a two-drink limit per hour when I asked for another glass 1hr 45 min later at the outside table with my family. I politely asked for another glass and was refused, despite being completely sober, weighing over 190 lbs, and standing 6 feet tall. There was no reasoning, no discussion -- just a flat-out refusal I can't serve you ar this time. The staff's tone? Cold at best, condescending at worst. If you value fair service, reasonable pours, and basic respect, I'd suggest you take your business elsewhere. Friendly staff? Not quite. Overpriced micro-pours and arbitrary limits discriminating absolutely. Cabins are cute but then that's the only little bar/ convenience store on the property so it really ruined the flavor of this cute place. You've been warned.

Great tasking experience at the winery today! The person pouring was very knowledgeable and kind…read more The vibe of the whole property was lovely, would love to see it in the summer! Blankets and parasols being provided was a nice touch. All 3 of the wines we tried were tasty! Will definitely visit again. Bonus: dog friendly!

Rudest owner on the island…read more If you enjoy being barked at by an agitated dog while the owner mocks your concerns, this is the place for you. We went out of our way to visit this winery, only to be met with total hostility. The owner's refusal to leash his incredibly obnoxious dog is irresponsible, but his attitude toward us was the real dealbreaker. My mother in law has been bit in the past, and was so uncomfortable. Plenty of other spots on Orcas Island actually value their customers, skip this one. The dog chased our car on the way out.

Such a cute cheese shop! I've gotten a couple charcuterie boards here for a party, and wine and…read morecheese pairing event, and come by to sit out on the patio to share a bottle of wine and cheese board . Every experience at Appel Farms has gone above expectations! The owner is so sweet and provides great service, the cheese is always delicious, and the inside and outside are great spots for a little gathering. A hidden gem of Whatcom County

Went here with my friend for an afternoon trip and wasn't disappointed! Staff were super friendly…read moreand informed, and I swear, this is the only place in the country that still has bottles of water being sold for a dollar each!

Such a stunning setting, wow!…read more I've had the pleasure of visiting Orcas at least once a year since I was a little kid, and finally had the chance to stay at Rosario Resort. While the rooms aren't modern, the views from the Harborside buildings are fabulous. What a lovely spot to sit out on the deck and have a peaceful breakfast. I enjoy walking around the property, and hope to visit someday during the summer to take advantage of the waterside adult swimming pool--one of the best PNW pool views I've seen. (There is a kid-friendly outdoor pool located at the center of the property, and an indoor salt water pool located adjacent to the spa that's open year-round.) The charming mansion is fun to explore, and the restaurant offers tasty menus items (with vegetarian and vegan options, hooray). Although it's fun to stay in different vacation rentals across the island, I'd be happy to come back to Rosario in the future. It's located conveniently close to Cascade Lake and Mountain Lake, plus it's not too much of a drive to get into town.

The room was a nice size, and the staff -though only online- was helpful- but for $600 for two…read morenights I couldn't say it was worth it. The mansion was (as people have said) shut down and there was just a bunch of trash outside of it. This also meant no amenities so the advertised pool/hot tub, etc. just not a part of it. -The room itself also has clearly not been updated in a while with old outlets, stained couches, and stained walls from the fire place? Honestly this stuff wouldn't really bother me that much had the price just been wayyyy lower. Hiltons offer way nicer rooms for half the price with real people there to help. I think maybe while they're renovating they should just offer price cuts but oh well. I did ultimately enjoy my stay and will be back to Orcas Island for its cute charm :)

I hosted a party at my home to celebrate my parents' 60th anniversary, and was at a total loss…read morelooking for someone to cater the food in Skagit County. I stumbled across Avenue Catering and was very impressed with Cindy and her team. She was responsive to my phone calls and emails, and followed through with everything she promised. She was very flexible in helping me tailor the menu, and even accommodated a vegan meal for one of our guests. The food exceeded our expectations. Everything was cooked to perfection and the guests couldn't stop talking about how delicious everything was. They were reasonably priced, delivery was punctual and the team was professional and friendly. I will definitely hire Avenue Catering again for any future parties.

Absolutely amazing!! They came up with a really unique menu for a young bride and groom and made…read moresure it fit our tiny budget. We got a ton of compliments on the food and everything I ate was basically the best I have ever tasted! You have our future business forever!

Incredible view, stellar location just a couple blocks from the ferry. The rooms are large and have…read moreeverything you need. The staff we encountered were phenomenal, such nice folks. There were a couple small problems but otherwise a fantastic stay.

We love it here. The staff is fabulous...so friendly and accommodating. They truly strive to make…read moreyou feel like family. The food is also fabulous. There are multiple "little touches" you don't find often that we appreciate every time...the gas fire pits outside steps away from the bar & restaurant where you can enjoy food/drink...the staff will even offer you blankets when it's cold out. Every floor has a convenience bar outside the elevator refreshed throughout the day with snacks & beverages. The rooms offer spacious bathrooms, large jetted tubs, a fridge and gas fireplace. The location is convenient as it's very close to the ferry (easy walk if you don't bring a car), restaurants and main drag. We are already talking about our next visit

This place has it all, excellent service, great facility, small touches that are too numerous do go…read moreover and, to top it off, the quality of the product was hands down superior to the tea at Empress. The small setting brings something to this place too, hard to explain but it makes it nice. We taxi'ed from downtown for just a few bucks and walked back, easy stuff. We can't recommend this place more highly. Go!! The gardens are not spectacular at the moment due to the time of the year but we could see that when in season, it would be amazing. GO! What are you waiting for.

The gardens were fantastic! Well maintained with close in trails that give it a very close in…read moresecret garden feel. There is also a trail suitable for wheelchairs and other assistive devices. This is not a really large garden, but very well designed and laid out. The variety of species is fantastic and the flowering blossoms are everywhere. The tea itself is a different story as I'm a bit of a tea snob. There are no menus or choices for sandwiches or type of tea. I found the tea sandwiches to be dry and stale bread. Being a tea snob, I also prefer private seatings instead of 8 strangers at a table all reaching into the same tower of sandwiches for choices you didn't get to make. Non Europeans just don't understand the finer points of tea. This 'European seating' of strangers sharing a table works for western ideas of pubs, not for an afternoon tea. Five stars for the garden. 2 stars for the stale sandwiches and tepid unknown tea with no cozies or leaves strainers or spoons or choices...

We're big off season travelers and had the magical experience of having this place to ourselves…read moreover Christmas. Our Scandinavia-inspired guesthouse was exactly what we were looking for - thoughtfully designed with huge windows, nestled among towering trees, and every amenity was extremely considered and of the highest quality. The property itself is spectacular with a communal garden, hot tub, and sauna plus plenty of space to wander. There's also a trio of goats and views of the North Bay for days. Core memories made!

I'd like to "Thank You" for the generosity you showed my family during the Tribute to Matthew…read moreMiller on Saturday, April 12, 2025. It was a perfect day of weather after a long winter of rain. The event space and grounds far exceeded any expectations. Both Valeri and Shayne were professional and delightful. I highly recommend Saltwater Farms to anyone who wants to book any event on San Juan Island. Best, Christine Miller and family