Doe Bay Resort and Retreat

To reach Doe Bay Resort, on Orcas Island in Washington State, you must first take a ferry from Anacortes, on the mainland. The hour-long (depending on which route you’re on) meanders past evergreen-studded islands before reaching the Orcas ferry terminal. From there, you’ll drive almost the entire length of the island, where time seems to slow down with the speed limit. Life is laid back here, as the idyllic farms and artist enclaves seem to indicate.

Doe Bay Resort is even more idyllic — in fact, it’s nothing short of magical. The rustic resort is perched above Otter Cove, where bald eagles, kingfishers — and yes, even the occasional otter — romp.

The highlight of the property is the hot soaking tubs, under a covered shelter just above a waterfall careening into Otter Cove. The damp, cold air that lingers over the islands most of the year is kept at bay by the warm tubs (and the sauna just a few steps away). Bring a book, or just sit and listen to the water. Either way, the stress and demands of “real life” are oceans away.

Doe Bay’s accommodations range from tent spots, cabins, and larger, shared bunk houses. Many have outstanding views of the cove and can be quite romantic.

Treat yourself to at least one meal in the café, which utilizes the island’s bounty along with produce grown at the resort itself. The meals are reliably delicious — even more so if you score a spot near a window over the cove.

Doe Bay Resort

107 Doe Bay Road

Olga, Wash. 98279

360 376 2291