Orcas Island Airport

Orcas Island Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of tranquility and natural beauty of the San Juan Archipelago. Instead of the usual roar of turbines and endless queues, you will be greeted here by a fresh sea breeze and a cosy, almost holiday-home atmosphere, where the journey from the aircraft steps to the town exit takes just a couple of steps. The landing here is considered one of the most picturesque in the region: the aircraft descends smoothly over the glistening water surface and emerald forests, setting the right mood for the entire journey even before touching the runway.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Unique "Stress-Free" Atmosphere. Orcas Island Airport differs strikingly from major hubs due to the absence of complex bureaucracy and rigid controls (TSA). There are no long security belts or requirements to remove shoes, making the arrival and departure process as relaxed and swift as possible.

Walking Distance to Civilization. This is one of the few airports in the USA from where you can walk to the city centre. A pleasant 15-20 minute stroll to Eastsound allows you to immediately immerse yourself in the island's rhythm without wasting time waiting for a taxi, provided you are travelling light.

Camping Under the Wing. For aviation enthusiasts and private pilots, there is a rare opportunity to pitch a tent right on the airfield grounds. A special green zone for camping ("under the wing") is equipped with picnic spots, turning the aircraft parking into part of an outdoor adventure.

Scenic Views. The waiting lounge and the area surrounding the airport offer panoramic views of the runway and the surrounding mountains. It is not uncommon to see vintage biplanes conducting sightseeing flights here, adding a special historical charm to the location.

Below you will find the main contact information for Orcas Island Airport (ESD), which serves the town of Eastsound and its surroundings. This information will help you contact the airport administration regarding various enquiries.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official portal www.portoforcas.com.
• Helpline Phone: For general information, you may call the number +1 (360) 376-5285.
• Airport Address: 147 Schoen Lane, Eastsound, WA 98245, USA.
• Email: For written enquiries, you may use the address info@portoforcas.com.
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain official pages on social networks. News and updates are published on the website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, it is necessary to contact the airline directly whose services you used. Regarding items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions not related to a specific flight or airline, please use the main airport phone number: +1 (360) 376-5285.

Getting to Orcas Island Airport (ESD) from the centre of Eastsound, the largest settlement on the island in the USA, is quite simple due to their close proximity. Transport options reflect the calm and unhurried rhythm of life on the island, so planning your trip in advance is the key to a comfortable journey.

Taxis and Transfers. The most reliable and convenient way to get to the airport is to order a local taxi or use a transfer service. Several private carriers operate on the island; however, it is highly recommended to book their services in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Unlike in major cities, popular ride-sharing applications practically do not work here. The trip from the village centre will take just a few minutes.

Car Rental. For travellers wishing to freely explore the picturesque corners of Orcas Island, renting a car is the ideal option. Some rental agencies can deliver the car directly upon your arrival at the airport by prior arrangement. This provides maximum flexibility and independence from the schedules of other modes of transport. It is also better to book a car well in advance, particularly for the summer months.

Public Transport. It is worth noting that Orcas Island lacks a developed public transport system that residents of large cities are accustomed to. There are no regular bus routes or metro systems here. During the summer period, a seasonal shuttle may operate serving the main tourist spots, but it is worth checking its schedule and route in advance, as it may not always call at the airport.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided at Orcas Island Airport. Given the compact size of the airport, the car park is located in immediate proximity to the terminal. Parking conditions are generally very loyal—it may be complimentary or offered at a low daily rate, which is convenient for both short and long trips.

In general, the journey from the central part of Eastsound to the airport takes no more than 5-10 minutes by car. The main recommendation is to plan your transfer in advance. If you only need a transfer to a hotel, order a taxi. If you plan to actively explore the island, renting a car will be your best choice.

Orcas Island Airport (ESD), serving the picturesque town of Eastsound and the eponymous island in the USA, is an example of compactness and convenience. All its infrastructure is concentrated in one small and cosy terminal, which serves both private aircraft and commercial flights of small airlines. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transfers between terminals—all services are under one roof.

The airport layout is extremely simple and intuitive. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in a common hall where the check-in and waiting areas are located. The departure and arrival zones are in close proximity to each other, making arrival and departure as quick and comfortable as possible. There are no long corridors or numerous boarding gates; it is practically impossible to get lost.

The main feature of the terminal is its intimate atmosphere. Instead of the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs, a calm environment awaits you. Inside, there are basic amenities, including a waiting lounge and airline counters. Pre-flight procedures, such as check-in and screening (if required for your flight), take a minimal amount of time. Usually, this takes no more than 15-20 minutes, allowing you to arrive at the airport shortly before departure, avoiding long waits.

Navigating Orcas Island Airport requires no special recommendations. Its compact size is its main advantage. Everything you need will be literally a few steps from the entrance, ensuring one of the most simple and carefree air travel experiences.

The history of Orcas Island Airport (ESD) is closely linked to the development of the entire island. Its story began during the Second World War, when the Army Corps of Engineers of the USA built an airfield here in 1943 for defensive purposes. After the war ended, the facility was transferred to civilian use by San Juan County, and since then, the airport in Eastsound has become a key transport hub for residents and guests of the island.

Since 1959, the airport has been managed by the Port of Orcas. From this moment, a new stage of its development began, largely driven by the growth of tourism in the San Juan Archipelago. The airport became not just a gateway for travellers, but also a vital artery ensuring the delivery of mail, cargo, and emergency medical evacuation. For decades, it served as a reliable link with the mainland, especially during periods when ferry services were difficult.

Over time, the airport's infrastructure has been modernized repeatedly to meet modern safety and comfort requirements. Works were carried out to update the runway, navigation equipment, and lighting. One of the most significant projects in recent years was the construction of a new terminal, which replaced the old, more modest building. This allowed for a significant improvement in the quality of passenger service and created a more modern and convenient space.

Today, Orcas Island Airport is not just a functional facility, but a place with a special atmosphere. It is popular among private pilots due to the incredibly scenic views during take-off and landing. Unlike major hubs, a friendly and almost homely environment reigns here. An interesting fact: its military past still reminds of itself in the layout and location, making it a small but important historical monument of the island.

Orcas Island Airport (ESD) is a small and cosy regional airport serving mainly private aviation and local airlines. Given its compact dimensions, the range of services here is focused on ensuring basic comfort and convenience for passengers before departure or immediately upon arrival on the picturesque Orcas Island.

In the terminal building, you will find a small but comfortable waiting lounge. Although there are no large restaurants or duty-free shops here, a small café often operates near the airport where you can have a snack and drink coffee. Passengers usually have access to free Wi-Fi, and power outlets for charging electronic devices can be found in the waiting lounge.

Specialized services such as VIP lounges, business centres, currency exchange points, or bank branches are not available at Orcas Island Airport. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in advance or in the nearby town of Eastsound. The same applies to medical services—first aid is available at the airport, but for full medical attention, one should contact institutions on the island.

The airport building is designed taking into account the needs of passengers with reduced mobility and ensures basic accessibility. Special services for travellers with children, such as play areas or mother and child rooms, are not provided; however, staff are always ready to assist whenever possible.

There are no hotels on the airport territory itself, but this is not an issue. Just a few minutes' drive away, in Eastsound and other parts of the island, there are numerous accommodation options—from cosy hotels and guest houses to apartments and cottages where you can rest comfortably after your flight.

Orcas Island Airport (ESD) is a small regional airport in the USA, serving mainly private and small commercial aviation. It is important to note that there are no restaurants, cafés, or dining outlets within the terminal building itself. This is a very compact airport with a minimal set of services, oriented towards quick arrivals and departures.

All dining establishments are located outside its premises, mainly in the nearby town of Eastsound, situated approximately 1.5-2 km from the airport. To reach them, you will need a car, a taxi, or about a 20-25 minute walk. In Eastsound, you will find a multitude of options to suit any taste: from cosy coffee shops and bakeries to full-service restaurants.

Since Orcas Island is famous for its farm produce and seafood, it is worth paying attention to Pacific cuisine dishes in local establishments. Try fresh salmon or halibut, local oysters, and dishes made from organic vegetables. Many cafés and restaurants in Eastsound offer vegetarian and gluten-free options suitable for various dietary requirements. The price range is mostly medium to above average. Opening hours of establishments may depend strongly on the season, so it is recommended to check current information online before visiting.

For a quick snack before departure, you can stop by one of the bakeries in Eastsound for a sandwich or pastries. If you have time for a full lunch, choose one of the restaurants with a view of the bay. The main thing is to correctly calculate the travel time to the airport so as not to miss your flight.

Travelling through Orcas Island Airport in the town of Eastsound has its own specificities, as it is a small and cosy regional air hub. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of our tips adapted for this airport in the USA.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Unlike giant international hubs, all processes here take much less time. We recommend arriving at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure. This will be quite sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without rushing, which is organised very compactly here.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Pay close attention to luggage regulations. Airlines flying small aircraft (for example, Kenmore Air) have very strict requirements regarding the weight and dimensions of both hand luggage and checked baggage. Clarify the allowances with your carrier in advance. Seat selection on such aircraft is often limited or unavailable, but almost any window seat will grant you unforgettable views of the San Juan Archipelago islands.

Connections and Customs. Orcas Island Airport serves predominantly domestic flights. If you have a connection planned in a larger city, for example, in Seattle, allow sufficient time for changing terminals or even airports. Customs and passport control are not conducted here, as the airport does not receive scheduled international flights.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, purchase tickets in advance, especially for the high summer season, and travel light. Flight delays here happen most often due to weather conditions, particularly fog. Please note that the terminal is very small and does not possess a large number of cafés or shops. In case of a delay, have a book and a charged power bank with you, and stay in touch with the airline representative.

General Security Rules. Do not forget about standard requirements: liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, cutting tools, and other dangerous items are prohibited in the cabin. Be prepared to switch on any electronic devices upon the request of a security officer.