Posted by: OrcaShuttle Team
Orcas Island is one of the largest in the San Juan Islands and very spread out depending on what you’re interested in doing. For years, locals and tourists alike have long bemoaned that there is a lack of public transportation on the island. There have been a few attempts to ease the burden of getting around Orcas Island but given the rise in popularity, a more permanent fix was badly needed. With the arrival of the Orcas Island bus service – OrcaShuttle – it’s never been easier to visit!
Is There a Bus Service on Orcas Island?
Yes! OrcaShuttle is the premier Orcas Island bus service, operating daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The 22-passenger vehicle makes frequent stops at various island locations, including the Orcas ferry landing, the heart of Eastsound, and Rosario Resort.
To eliminate the fear of ballooning fares, the Orcas Island Shuttle operates on a flat rate fare of $18.50 per person per ride. For parties of four or more, a 20% discount will be applied.
Track the live location of the shuttle, check out the route, and explore other details via the menu at the top of this page!
Orcas Island Shuttle Service
As mentioned above, the Orcas Island Shuttle bus operated from Memorial Day to Labor Day and can easily be identified thanks to its photo-worthy design! What design, you ask? You’ll just have to wait and see when it launches Memorial Day weekend 2021.
Orcas Island Public Transportation
Orcas Island has no formal public transportation system, but OrcaShuttle is joined by San Juan Transit and several taxi options to get around the island.
However, the Washington State Ferry system is considered an extension of the state’s highways. So when you’re on the ferry to Orcas or ferrying between the San Juan Islands, you’re on the closes thing to public transportation as you’ll get in the region.
Orcas Island Transit
Orcas Island transit services are limited, as we mentioned above, but OrcaShuttle has you covered! It operates the most consistent service all summer long and stops at the most popular island locations. What’s not to love!?
San Juan Transit
San Juan Transit is designed to carry you around the San Juan Islands. You can choose from multiple locations, including Roche Harbor and San Juan Vineyards. San Juan Transit can also take you to the renowned Lime Kiln Point State Park. This state park is one of the best whale-watching spots in the Pacific Northwest.
San Juan Transit is primarily based on San Juan Island, but can be found every now and then on Orcas Island during the summer.
Taxi Service Orcas Island
If you prefer to not take the shuttle or don’t feel like renting a car, you can try any of the Orcas Island taxi services. There are a few taxi options and these guys stay on the go. While it is possible to hop in and go without prior notice (if you’re lucky), we highly recommend planning ahead and calling to set up a ride.
Are there ride shares on Orcas Island?
The short answer is, no. For more, check out this write up about Uber Orcas Island.
Sources
https://orcasislandchamber.com/web-category/san-juan-transit-shuttle/
https://orcasislandchamber.com/web-category/category/transportation/taxisshuttle-service/
https://www.orcascars.com/orcas-island-transportation/