Crescent Beach sits just east of Eastsound in Ship Bay on Orcas Island in San Juan County, forming part of the 131-acre Crescent Beach Preserve with 2,100 feet of shoreline. The beach takes its name from its crescent-shaped curve along Ship Bay's protected waters, creating a distinctive geographic feature visible from surrounding hills and water approaches. The San Juan County Land Bank assembled the preserve through multiple acquisitions starting with 113 acres in 1998 including nearly 300 feet of no-bank beach waterfront and extensive wetland system, with additional expansions in 2000, 2002, and 2005 creating vital conservation area protecting diverse ecosystems. The San Juan Preservation Trust manages wetland areas behind the beach complementing the Land Bank's shoreline protection, creating comprehensive habitat conservation on Orcas Island's eastern shore.
Beachcombing along the shoreline reveals smooth stones, driftwood, shells, and interesting finds deposited by Ship Bay tidal action, with low tide creating optimal conditions for exploring the beach and tide flats. Wildlife watching provides exceptional opportunities with osprey nesting and fishing in the area, river otters playing along the shoreline and in kelp beds, diverse shorebirds including sandpipers and plovers utilizing tide flats during migrations, and waterfowl such as goldeneyes, buffleheads, and mergansers diving in Ship Bay waters. The preserve documents spawning sites for forage fish including herring and surf smelt, with eelgrass beds supporting marine life such as Dungeness crab and providing nursery habitat for juvenile salmon. Walking utilizes a half-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail connecting to major thoroughfares like Crescent Beach Drive and Mount Baker Road, providing low-impact public access along the beachfront and through preserve lands. The preserve's unique ecosystem encompasses tide flats, shoreline, wetlands, and forests creating habitat diversity attracting birders and nature enthusiasts year-round. Rambling along the beach offers peaceful contemplation and exercise perfect for walking off meals or enjoying low tide exploration. Views stretch across Ship Bay toward nearby islands and Mount Baker rising dramatically to the east on the mainland when atmospheric conditions allow clear visibility. The no-bank beach waterfront creates gentle access to the shoreline contrasting with steeper bluff-backed beaches common throughout the San Juan Islands.
Eastsound and Orcas Island dining offers excellent restaurants near Crescent Beach and throughout the island. The Madrona Bar and Grill creates rustic dining experience with deck seating and scenic water views, serving American cuisine including steaks and seafood. Matia Kitchen operates permanent restaurant in downtown Eastsound after transitioning from pop-up status in 2021, featuring seasonal island ingredients. A contemporary inn restaurant one mile from Eastsound serves memorable dining in renovated 1869 farmhouse with island greens, fruits, and seafood paired with regionally focused wine list. New Leaf Cafe prepares fresh breakfast and lunch options using local ingredients in downtown Eastsound. Brown Bear Baking creates artisan breads, pastries, and baked goods beloved by island residents and visitors. Orcas Island chefs emphasize locally sourced seafood, meats, and produce paired with regional wines, brews, ciders, and spirits throughout the island's diverse restaurant scene.
