There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Eastsound into a quick city adventure. From ESD, the Taxi / Ride-share can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside ESD
Before heading into Eastsound, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Eastsound is roughly 30 minutes from ESD via Taxi / Ride-share. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Eastsound
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Eastsound, two standouts are:
- Explore Eastsound Village — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Orcas Island Historical Museum — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside ESD — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Enjoy Runway Views (ESD)
- Local Information Display (ESD)
Getting from ESD to Eastsound
You have two main options for getting from Orcas Island Airport into town:
- Taxi / Ride-share: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Best Bites Near ESD
- In the city: The Loft at Madrona Bar & Grill and New Leaf Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Eastsound.
- At the airport: ESD Terminal Grab & Go and Eastsound Airport Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Eastsound layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Eastsound.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ESD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Eastsound or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage at ESD
Dedicated luggage storage at ESD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Eastsound’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at ESD
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ESD.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Eastsound count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ESD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.