Don’t Forget Eastsound

The charming Village of Eastsound, overlooking East Sound

Settled weather is a prerequisite for an overnight anchorage when visiting the village of Eastsound.  Wind from the southeast has a long fetch before reaching the head of the body of water named East Sound, bringing with it some uncomfortable rollers.  But the village at the head of this Sound shouldn’t be missed, it’s one of those special places unique to the San Juan Islands. 

40-foot Day-use Dock at Eastsound

Anchorage is doable in settled weather just south of the day-use dock in 40-50 feet of water, keep seaward of the dock to avoid any eel grass.  Anchorage can also be found along the western shore in Fishing Bay and Judd Bay in 40-45 feet of water over a mud bottom, Judd Bay offers the best protection from south winds but does have a few hazards.  North winds are less likely to pose any problems while anchored in the area.

There are numerous interesting shops in Eastsound

We decided on Fishing Bay and had a comfortable night’s stay.  Taking our dinghy to the public day-use dock on the eastern shore, we made the short walk into the village and enjoyed this charming community. 

It's hard to choose from the many excellent cafes in Eastsound

The village is filled with wonderful boutiques and excellent cafes; sidewalks and pathways lined with flowering shrubs and trees create a private garden appeal.  The town bakery and the ice cream shop are favorites as is the Saturday Farmers Market held in the Village Green, May through September. 

Orcas Island Historical Museum at Eastsound

A collection of log cabins from the late 1800’s makes up the Orcas Island Historical Museum.  Located in the center of town, the museum includes the history of early pioneers who first came to the area.  One of the first European settlers to Eastsound was Charles Shattuck, who built a log cabin and operated a store in the late 1850’s. 

Eastsound is a delightful garden town experience

Many of the early pioneers were employees of the Hudson's Bay Company sent from Fort Victoria to hunt deer.  Other pioneers were prospectors and trappers. 

The Historic Emmanuel Episcopal Church

Some of the town's early buildings still remain in Eastsound, including the Emmanuel Episcopal Church built in 1885 which overlooks the Sound.  While the right sea conditions are often required for a visit to Eastsound, this special community shouldn’t be forgotten when planning a trip through the San Juan Islands.