Brandt's Landing Marina is a serene waterfront hub on Orcas Island, Washington, offering moorage, kayak access, and sweeping views of the San Juan Islands.
Brandt's Landing Marina sits on the southern shore of East Sound, the long tidal inlet that nearly bisects Orcas Island. The marina has long served the working and recreational boating community here, offering moorage for transient and seasonal vessels in one of the most sheltered anchorages in the region.
The surrounding waters draw paddlers and anglers alike. Launching a kayak from the marina puts you directly onto a calm, island-dotted waterway where wildlife sightings are common and the scenery shifts with every stroke. Guided kayaking tours operate throughout the warmer months for those who prefer an expert-led outing.
The broader San Juan Islands archipelago surrounds the marina with opportunities for exploration by boat, from forested coves to rocky outcroppings teeming with marine life. The village of Eastsound, just minutes away, offers galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and a genuine sense of island community.
For anyone traveling by water through the Pacific Northwest, Brandt's Landing Marina offers a welcoming and well-positioned stop that captures everything distinctive about life on Orcas Island.
Visit during the long summer days of June through August for the calmest water conditions and the best chance of spotting orcas passing through the sound.
Arrive early in the morning to secure a slip or a good launch spot, as the marina sees steady traffic on summer weekends.
Bring binoculars for wildlife watching from the dock, where bald eagles, harbor seals, and great blue herons are regular visitors.
Pack a picnic and walk the short distance into Eastsound village, where local shops and cafes are within easy reach of the marina.
Dress in layers year-round, as temperatures on the water can drop quickly even on clear afternoons in the San Juan Islands.
Paddle Orcas Island’s north shore on a 2-hour guided kayak tour from Eastsound
Paddle Orcas Island’s north shore at dusk and watch the sunset from the water
Crack local Dungeness crab and dine along Orcas Island waterways
Paddle Orcas Island’s north shore to remote Point Doughty