Welcome to our FAQ page! We’re delighted to have you considering a stay with us. Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions our guests have, from booking and accommodations to activities and dining options. If you need any further assistance, don’t hesitate to call us or send us an email!
We look forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable stay at Doe Bay Resort & Retreat!
Q: What is the best way to get to Orcas Island?
A: There are several options for travel to the San Juan Islands, and Orcas Island in particular! The most common way to reach Orcas Island is by ferry from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal; and less commonly, by water taxi from the Skyline Marina (foot passengers only). You will find very handy guides and local information provided by the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau and by the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce.
Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance and make reservations if travelling during peak season! Ferry reservations are released in stages, with initial availability released 2 months in advance, followed by a second release 2 weeks in advance, and then another 2 days in advance. (They can fill quickly in summer, so do check first thing the morning of a release date!)
For more information and to make a reservation with WSDOT, click here!
Q: What are my transportation options if I fly to Orcas?
A: Orcas Island Scenic Shuttle : 360.298.8414 | Orcas Island Taxi : 360.376.TAXI | Orcas Island Rental Car : Website | 360.376.7433 | Orcas Cars : Website | 206.705.3999
Q: How do I get to Doe Bay Resort?
A: Doe Bay Resort is located on the easternmost side of Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands of Washington State (map here). From the ferry terminal, Doe Bay Resort is approximately 40 minutes by car. Unfortunately, we do not offer a shuttle service at this time; but there are several taxis on the island, which you can find listed here.
Q: What type of accommodations does Doe Bay Resort offer?
A: We offer a variety of accommodations including cabins, yurts and domes, and campsites. Each accommodation type provides a unique experience, whether you prefer a fully kitted guest house, a cozy cabin nestled in the woods, or a rustic camping spot with stunning views of the Salish Sea!
Q: Are pets allowed at Doe Bay Resort?
A: Yes, we are a pet-friendly resort! We understand that pets are part of the family, so we welcome well-behaved dogs in select designated accommodations; other pets are considered on an individual basis. Please review our pet policy for more information on fees and guidelines; be sure to specify for “pets” in your booking search!
Q: Can I book events at Doe Bay Resort?
A: Absolutely! We offer stunning options for retreats and special events, such as Boathouse and Retreat House, although we do not host weddings at this time. Contact our events coordinator for more information on availability and packages, and have a look through our events page and online calendar as well.
Q: What is your nightly minimums policy? Are there any exceptions?
A: During the summer season from June 16th through September 15th, the minimum is a 5-night stay if booked over one month from your date of arrival and a 3-night stay if booked within the month. The rest of the year from September 16th to June 15th, the minimum is a 3-night stay if booked over one month from your date of arrival and a 2-night stay if booked within the month.
The exceptions to this rule are our private mooring buoys if booked through Moorbuoys.com and our picnic campsites located in Upper Field; call the front desk to enquire about these spaces, as they are not bookable online.
Have a look at our policies page for the most current information on nightly minimums.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Our cancellation policy varies depending on how far out your cancellation request is made. Generally, we require a minimum of 7 days’ notice for cancellations to receive a full refund less a 20% fee; and cancellations made within 7 days of arrival are offered a refund less 20% of the deposit if we can re-book the accommodation in that time (if not, we retain the full deposit). You are also always welcome to hold the deposit to apply toward a future stay, without a fee.
Please refer to your booking confirmation or contact our front desk for specific details regarding your reservation.
Q: Are fires allowed?
A: Our communal fire ring is the only place onsite where open fires are permitted. Please do mind burn bans when they are in place!
Q: Where do camping guests store food?
A: Guests camping out on The Point will have use of food lockers at the camper comfort station, as well as all guests having full access to Guest Kitchen in Lower Field. As our property is home to many wild creatures who would very much love to snack on your goodies, we strongly encourage you to keep foods safe within the lockers and kitchen, and not to retain any perishables or organic trash in your camping space.
Q: Is there potable water onsite?
A: Yes, all of the water provided to cabins, Guest Kitchen, and the water fountains onsite is potable. There is also a camper comfort station located approximately halfway between the campsites on The Point and the main property, as well as several water spigots across the grounds.
Q: Is there wi-fi available at Doe Bay Resort? How is the mobile service?
A: Yes, we offer complimentary wi-fi across the resort. However, please note that due to our remote location, internet connectivity may be limited at times or in certain places; and while the island has mobile coverage, guests often find that T-Mobile provides the best coverage. You can see a service provider map here (we are zip code 98279).
We encourage guests to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the resort!
Q: What amenities are available to guests?
A: Our resort offers a range of amenities including a well-provisioned General Store, a fully-equipped Guest Kitchen, the Otter Lodge lounge library, a renowned hot tubs and sauna, a café serving sustainable produce sourced from our expansive open garden and meats from local farms, a 24-hour yoga studio, and private massage services. In addition, we offer onsite guests free use of our electric charger located in Upper Field, as well as considerate use of our communal fire ring.
Guests can also access Moran State Park through its easternmost hiking trails a short distance away, and take part in water activities such as kayaking tours with Shearwater Adventures and whale watching through local companies such as Deer Harbor Charters and Outer Island Excursions. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or embark on outdoor adventures, we have something for everyone!
We highly recommend guests to read the SJI Stewardship Guide before their stay!
Q: What amenities are offered in cabins? Do you offer laundry services?
A: Cabins are each provided linens, bedding, and towels, and we offer extra blankets and pillows as needed. Deluxe cabins are equipped with fully-kitted kitchen spaces, including dishes, utensils, and cookware; kitchenettes will typically feature a mini fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. Our guests in rustic cabins can make use of Guest Kitchen as well as our Upper and Lower Bathhouses, dependent on their cabin location; they are stocked with organic soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Check the booking page for information on the specifics of your individual cabin.
We do not offer laundry services at this time. The closest laundromat is Country Corner located in Eastsound, adjacent to the patrol station at the edge of town. In addition, Polar Bear Laundry offers eco-friendly dry cleaning and private laundry services by appointment.
Q: How warm are your yurts in winter?
In winter our on-grid yurts, while offering a unique experience, can be colder than cabins. The heating provided helps manage humidity rather than guaranteeing complete warmth. We are happy to provide extra blankets, and we offer helpful winter gear in the store such as thick socks and hoodies; but the yurts are not designed to accommodate electric space heaters. If you have any concerns about staying warm, we recommend exploring our indoor lodging options for a more temperature-controlled experience.
Q: Are your soaking tubs actually hot springs?
A: While our soaking tubs make use of well water that is naturally high in sulphur, they do not qualify as “hot springs.” You may smell the sulphur content; we encourage you to read all about the health benefits of bathing in sulphurous waters!
Q: Does the resort use chlorine in the hot tubs?
A: We use a saltwater conversion system that naturally generates a small amount of chlorine to keep the water clean and safe. This method provides a gentler experience, leaving the water soft and fresh while reducing the harsh effects that direct chlorine might cause.
Please note, however, that because chlorine is produced as part of the saltwater conversion process, there is still a small amount present in the water. If you have a chlorine allergy or sensitivity, we recommend checking with a healthcare professional to ensure you’re comfortable using our hot tubs. We strive to provide a relaxing, safe experience for all our guests!
Q: Are there dining options available at Doe Bay Resort?
A: Our onsite Doe Bay Café offers delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Check the café page for the most updated information on hours. During the summer season, dinner reservations are required excepting open mic nights on Thursdays, which is first-come first-serve; and during the rest of the year, reservations are highly recommended.
We also have a communal kitchen for guests who prefer to prepare their own meals. Additionally, there are dining options available in nearby Eastsound village, just a short drive from the resort; check the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce for up-to-date listings.
Q: Can offsite guests make use of the spa?
A: We offer two types of spa: communal soaks and private sessions. Communal soaks are reserved for our onsite guests and Friends of Doe Bay members; offsite guests may enquire about last-minute availability for private sessions. Call or email the front desk, or email our spa coordinator.
Q: Is the café open to offsite guests?
A: Yes, our café is open to the public. On busier days we do, however, reserve the right to give priority seating to onsite guests. It is highly recommended to make a reservation during the shoulder seasons; reservations are required during summer. Email the café here!
Q: Are offsite visitors allowed to explore the grounds?
A: Offsite visitors are allowed to walk the grounds after checking in with the front desk, and are provided with a visitor’s parking pass which is valid for 45 minutes. We ask that all visitors are mindful of our grounds and onsite guests.
Q: Are offsite visitors allowed to launch a kayak from the beach?
A: Our resort is private property, and our beach is reserved for onsite guest use. However, offsite guests are allowed to launch their kayaks with a $25 fee; and be sure to post your visitor’s parking pass on the dashboard of your vehicle!
The closest public beach access to us is Obstruction Pass (also described here), and just off of Eastsound is Crescent Beach.
Q: I love Doe Bay Resort! How do I buy merch for friends and family?
A: We love that you want to share Doe Bay with your favorite people! Our gift cards are available all year and can be used in the General Store, cafe, and toward spa. Be sure to have a look through our online store for Doe Bay goodies such as hoodies, hats, and other collectibles — and be sure to consider our lovely gift baskets, as well!
