A Modern Family Destination On Orcas Island Near Washington That Revives Both The Heart And The Soul
One might mistake Orcas Island as having been named for the many orcas whale pods calling its waters home—Orcinus orca. But, in actuality, the name has nothing to do with whales but instead dates back to a Viceroy of Mexico who in 1791 sent an exploration party to the North Pacific. It is the largest of the San Juan Islands, just off the coast of Washington State, comprising 57.3 square miles, resembling a pair of saddlebags in shape with a large inlet of water between them and is only accessible by water or air. State ferries provide regular transportation between the mainland and islands.
Like the indigenous orca whales of the Puget Sound, Orcas Island visitors return again and again to this enchanting island, sometimes for generations. Kim McAdams, Operations Manager for West Beach Resort, says, “I see guests in their fifties bringing their grandchildren who, as children, were guests themselves. Generations of people return year after year.”
The sunny west-side resort was established after the closing of the nearby factory which was made of bricks from island-bank clay. According to the Orcas Island Historical Museum, “Cramer and Kertis (West Beach Resort) was built and managed by Mr. and Mrs. Earl (Curly) Cramer in 1938. By 1942, it consisted of four single and six double cabins which could be rented furnished or unfurnished, a boat house which included shower baths and laundry facilities for the guests' use, and supplies for boaters and fishermen. All cabins were on the beach, a few yards from the water, on the west shore near Eastsound. The Cramers added two additional cabins in 1953. It was famous as a fishing resort.”
Back when boat moorage cost only 50¢ a day, a resort advertisement boasted that “Whether fishing for the mighty King Salmon or the fighting Silvers, the waters on the northwest side of Orcas Island offer the sportsman the finest fishing in the San Juans.” Today, according to Marty Mead of North Shore Charters, “Sport fishing is available year round but most species are available for catch in July through November, including Salmon, Rock Cod, Ling Cod, Halibut, Shark, Red Snapper, Steelhead, Sturgeon and more.” 2-day Fishing licenses are available for $8 in the nearby quaint town of Eastsound.
Modern West Beach Resort offers something for everyone: fully equipped tent/yurt cabins and log cabins (the original 13 on the beach dating back to 1938), traditional tent sites, and RV sites with power and water hookups (no sewer), all offering a variety of views and waterfront access to the pebbly walk-out beach. There is even a farmhouse for family reunions, along with garden studios and cottages. The resort includes a café, small convenience store, marina and accommodations for campers like picnic tables, fire pits, showers, toilets and laundry facilities.
Next to the resort and protecting it from development is Turtleback Mountain Preserve, a major conservation success when in 2006 the community rallied to create this recreational resource as “refuge for wildlife and those who wander the trails.” From its unspoiled ridgeline and precipitous rock outcroppings matchless views of the San Juan and Canadian Gulf Islands can be seen. The multi-use trails are designated for horses and bikes, each sharing an even/odd day rotation. Bikes enjoy even calendar days while equestrians the odd calendar days.
Kim considers winter her favorite time of year at West Beach Resort due to the wind storms that occasionally send ocean spray onto her office windows. Though summer is high season when booking in advance is advisable, she says many of her guests come in winter specifically to watch the dramatic storms. When guests check out they have first dibs on reserving for next year.
The texture of the West Beach Resort continues to place it as a family destination that revives both the heart and the soul.
Nanette Hilton
Nanette Hilton is an avid cyclist and nature-lover with artwork and writing published worldwide. She holds a degree in Writing from Brigham Young University and currently lives in the splendorous Mojave Desert.
Make Sure To Stay At:
West Beach Resort, a private destination resort specializing in providing guests with an authentic San Juan Islands getaway. A one-of-a-kind Pacific Northwest experience you won’t soon forget.