Top 10 Things to Do in Anacortes Before or After Your Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching may be the highlight of your visit to Anacortes, but it's far from the only reason to spend time here.

Nestled on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes offers waterfront parks, scenic viewpoints, local shops, and easy access to the San Juan Islands. Whether you have a few hours before your departure or want to turn your whale watching trip into a full weekend getaway, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your visit.

Here are ten great things to do before or after your Anacortes whale watching adventure.

1. Explore Washington Park

Washington Park is one of Anacortes' most scenic destinations.

The park features:

• Forested walking trails

• Waterfront viewpoints

• Picnic areas

• Rocky shoreline access

• Beautiful views across the Salish Sea

Whether you have 30 minutes or several hours, it's a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors before or after your tour.

2. Take in the Views from Cap Sante Park

For one of the best panoramic views in Anacortes, head to Cap Sante Park.

From the overlook you'll see:

• The marina

• Downtown Anacortes

• The surrounding islands

• Snow-capped Cascade peaks on clear days

It's an ideal stop for photos and only takes a short detour.

3. Wander Through Historic Downtown

Downtown Anacortes offers a relaxed atmosphere with locally owned businesses and waterfront charm.

Spend some time exploring:

• Boutique shops

• Art galleries

• Local cafés

• Bookstores

• Specialty food shops

It's the perfect place to slow down before heading out on the water.

4. Visit Deception Pass State Park

Just a short drive south of Anacortes, Deception Pass is one of Washington's most iconic destinations.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Dramatic bridge views

• Coastal hiking trails

• Beaches

• Forest walks

• Excellent photography opportunities

If you're extending your trip, it's well worth the visit.

5. Enjoy Fresh Seafood

Being on the coast means fresh seafood is never far away. Adrift, The Majestic, and Rockfish Grill all offer great local selection of seafood and other options.

After your whale watching tour, relax over lunch or dinner at one of Anacortes' waterfront restaurants and enjoy local seafood while watching boats come and go from the harbor.

6. Grab Coffee Before Your Tour

If you have an early start, begin your day at one of Anacortes' independent coffee shops. Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse is a staff favorite!

A coffee and light breakfast provide the perfect start before checking in for your whale watching excursion.

7. Walk Along Fidalgo Bay

Fidalgo Bay offers an easy shoreline walk with beautiful water views.

It's a great place to:

• Watch shorebirds

• Stretch your legs

• Enjoy the fresh sea air

• Take in the scenery before heading home

The peaceful atmosphere makes it a favorite among visitors.

8. Visit the Local Farmers Market

If you're visiting during market season, the Anacortes Farmers Market is worth exploring.

You'll find:

• Local produce

• Handmade goods

• Artisan foods

• Fresh flowers

• Gifts from local makers

It's a fun way to experience the community while supporting local businesses.

9. Ride the Washington State Ferry

Even if you're not staying overnight on one of the islands, taking a ferry ride can be an adventure in itself.

Ferries departing from Anacortes provide access to several beautiful San Juan Islands, making it easy to extend your trip by a day or two.

10. Add Another Outdoor Adventure

If you have extra time, consider expanding your itinerary.

Popular activities include:

• Kayaking

• Hiking

• Birdwatching

• Beachcombing

• Island exploration

For travelers who love being on the water, these activities pair perfectly with whale watching.

Make the Most of Your Whale Watching Experience

If seeing orcas is your number one priority, consider booking Outer Island Excursions' Guaranteed Orca Tour.

Unlike many traditional whale watching trips, it departs in the afternoon because orcas can travel more than 100 miles in a single day. By departure time, captains have gathered hours of real-time whale sightings from across the Salish Sea, allowing them to make informed decisions before leaving the dock.

Outer Island Excursions was the original company to introduce an Orca-Specific Guarantee, making it one of the most unique whale watching experiences available in the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you're spending a few hours in Anacortes or planning a multi-day vacation, it's one of the best ways to maximize your opportunity to experience these incredible animals.

Build the Perfect Day

A simple itinerary might look like this:

Morning

• Coffee downtown

• Explore Cap Sante Park or Washington Park

Afternoon

• Join the Guaranteed Orca Tour

• Watch for orcas, humpbacks, seals, sea lions, porpoises, and seabirds

Evening

• Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant

• Watch the sunset before heading home or continuing your island vacation

It's an easy way to experience some of the very best that Anacortes has to offer.

Plan Your Visit

Anacortes combines coastal charm, outdoor recreation, and unforgettable wildlife encounters into one memorable destination.

Whether you're hiking through waterfront parks, exploring downtown, or heading out on the Salish Sea with Outer Island Excursions, there's no shortage of ways to create an unforgettable Pacific Northwest getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time should I spend in Anacortes beyond my whale watching tour?

If possible, plan to spend at least half a day exploring the town. Many visitors choose to turn their whale watching excursion into a full-day or weekend getaway.

What should I do before my whale watching tour?

Enjoy breakfast or coffee downtown, then visit Cap Sante Park or Washington Park for beautiful views before heading to the marina.

Is Deception Pass worth visiting?

Absolutely. It's one of Washington's most iconic state parks and makes an excellent addition to any Anacortes itinerary.

Which whale watching tour is best if I want to see orcas?

Outer Island Excursions' Guaranteed Orca Tour is specifically designed for guests whose primary goal is seeing orcas. Its afternoon departure uses real-time whale sightings gathered throughout the day to maximize opportunities for locating them.

Can I easily turn whale watching into a weekend getaway?

Yes. Between parks, waterfront dining, island ferries, hiking, and additional outdoor activities, Anacortes offers plenty to fill an entire weekend beyond your whale watching adventure.