Your wedding day should be all about you, so why get lost in the chaos of a crowded place? While the Pacific Northwest has breathtaking views, sometimes, it can be a bit loud. That is why I am positively in love with Orcas Island. You get to take those same scenic views while remaining in total seclusion. When you have an Orcas Island wedding, you don’t have to worry about the outside world’s noise. On your day, your guests will solely focus on celebrating this next season of life with you. And what could be better than that? Orcas Island has some beautiful spots where you can escape island life while receiving five-star treatment. Here are some of my favorite places.
The iconic Orcas Hotel is one of the most memorable landmarks on the Island. Presiding over the hillside above the Orcas Ferry Landing, the hotel has been hosting guests since 1904. With overnight lodging for up to 20, The Orcas Hotel can accommodate weddings up to 30 guests indoors, and 40 guests outdoors. The perfect vantage for watching the ferries come and go, the Orcas Hotel is brimming with vintage charm and atmosphere.
Located in the village of Eastsound and overlooking the eponymous body of water to the south, Outlook Inn is beautifully situated near the middle of the horseshoe-shaped island. The historic hotel is brimming with vintage charm, and the property offers ample options for accommodations, including modern water’s edge deluxe suites, historic inn rooms, and luxurious bay view suites. Ceremonies can take place in the beautiful secluded garden in front of the quaint a-frame chapel, inside the chapel itself, or in the hotel’s ballroom. On-site catering and bar service helps keep your wedding stress-free and uncomplicated!
Inn at Ship Bay is a drop-dead gorgeous spot built around an 1869 farmhouse. To this day, the land looks just like it did over a century ago. You can still find all the fruit trees and wildlife, feeling you have truly transcended to another place and time. The outdoor venue overlooks the water and gives you all the necessary privacy. The location is perfect for an intimate wedding and offers seating for up to 48 people. There’s onsite catering offering some of the area’s best seafood and an elevated stage area for trading vows. The inn is available to rent, making it even more convenient for your wedding party. You can learn all about this historic farmhouse on their website.
Perched on the rocky shores of Cascade Bay, Rosario Resort offers one of the most scenic destinations in the San Juan Islands. Wedding ceremonies can be held on the waterfront lawns or inside the historic resort mansion. The resort offers catering and accommodations and is a perfect starting point for exploring the island.
For years, Doe Bay was a beloved fixture in the Pacific Northwest. It was bought in 2007 by a new owner, and it’s clear that the charm remains. Now, the area does all it can to make it a peaceful haven for a quick getaway. The property has a garden with food that goes toward the delicious meals in the cafe. When you rent out the resort, you can rent out this entire cafe and the yoga studio (which doubles as a grand reception space!). You can pitch a party tent and have a gorgeous, rustic wedding filled with all the allure of nature while still getting all the comforts of the resort. The venue allows up to 200 guests, and with plenty of resort rooms and grounds for a campsite, you’ll be able to turn it into a mini-vacation. Find out more on their website.
Pebble Cove Farm is a beautiful farm and animal sanctuary that looks like a scene from Moonrise Kingdom. The area is waterfront and offers breathtaking views and plenty of accommodations. The property gives you the ability to “take over the farm.” With this package, you’ll have free reign of the four-acre farm, including the private beach. Set your arbor in front of the water and trade those sweet I do’s with the world’s most serene backdrop. In the evening, you can celebrate without worrying about wedding crashers. When you rent Pebble Cove Farm, you’ll be the only one on the site. This venue is perfect for both large and small parties and has recommended vendors so you can plan the day that’s right for you. You can find out more on their website.
Orcas Island Winery is the only winery on the island, making it the ideal spot to raise a glass. The winery is right on the base of Turtleback Mountain, offering you fabulous views and delicious drinks. With 16 acres of private wildland, you will feel like you have the entire world. The area in front of the barn tends to be a popular spot for outdoor weddings. You keep the rustic charm of the barn wood while still getting that jaw-dropping scenery of the outdoors. You can rent out an event tent, making it the perfect shield should the Washington weather decide to do its thing. You’ll love the views, and your guests will adore the wines. With a massive variety of whites and reds, even the pickiest sommelier will be pleased. You can view pictures of past weddings here:
Orcas Island offers several public-access parks, trails, and even easily accessed mountaintop vistas for stunning island wedding ceremonies if you envision an intimate micro-wedding or elopement. Some of my favorite locations are Mt. Constitution in Moran State Park, Turtleback Mountain, Obstruction Pass State Park, and Judd Cove Preserve.
If you’re the type who sometimes needs to get away from it all, I think you will love having an Orcas Island wedding. It’s a brilliant marriage with glorious views and all the privacy you could want for your big day.
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