In previous years, the Moran Mansion was the singular attraction at Rosario, now the Harbor itself is the center of attraction with multiple amenities and activities. The Harbor Bar & Grill, within steps of the docks, has become a local favorite, and the beautiful Beach House, just east of the docks, is a wonderful new addition.
The Beach House has been beautifully renovated, resembling a lodge with wood-beam ceilings, chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows that take in the fabulous views of Cascade Bay from the comfortable lounge and dining room. And yes, a lovely beach lies below the outdoor deck. The Blackfish Café inside the Beach House offers coffee and pastries, and will soon offer a full-service restaurant come late June, 2026. Equally exciting is the extra space in the Beach House that will be used for group gatherings and special events; in fact, a date has already been set for the first wedding at this new venue.
Rosario Harbor properties include the marina, family pool, the Harbor Bar & Grill building, and the beautifully renovated Beach House sporting the new Café and a gift shop. If you haven’t been to Rosario lately, you will be pleasantly surprised at the new-found activity and friendly atmosphere. What with today’s cost for fuel, boaters in Washington may want to stay closer to home and re-discover Rosario.
The Harbormaster is helpful and welcoming too; boaters can make moorage reservations online via Dockwa or call ahead during the shoulder season for space (360-622-0358 and VHF Ch78). One-third of the marina footprint has been set aside for guest moorage and fills quickly during the peak season, July-August, so make your reservations early. Boaters should note that the eight mooring buoys are now used for long-term lease only. The breakwater floats are used for day-use visitors until 3pm; stay clear of the deep-water end used frequently for floatplane arrivals and departures. Mega Yachts may be tied to the breakwater on occasion. Showers are included with moorage, and laundry machines are available for overnight guests.
Day visitors and those staying overnight can purchase a pool pass at the harbor office or online. The outdoor heated pool is scheduled to open on June 20, and the new Restaurant in the Beach House is scheduled to open around June 25.
There is much to see and do on Orcas Island, now made easier at Rosario Harbor thanks to “Orcas Wild” (360-376-7411) which offers Kayak, Moped, and E-Bike rentals. Hike the trail to Cascade Lake or ride an E-Bike to Moran State Park. There is also taxi service, shuttle service, and car rentals available on the island, and we have been told that Uber Drivers have arrived on the island too!
In the past, the mansion was the featured attraction; today Rosario is about moving forward with some very warm, friendly, and enjoyable experiences in one of the most beautiful settings in the San Juan Islands. While the Mansion may not be open, Rosario has changed its character into an active and enjoyable destination, and boaters are beginning to discover these changes for the better.
Come discover Rosario Harbor.
Rosario Harbor is currently offering 20% off dockage to Waggoner Readers. Use Promo Code “Waggoner” on Dockwa reservations or by phone at Rosario Harbor! This offer is good through October 2026 as a special invitation to Waggoner followers to discover the new Rosario.
Photos by Lorena Landon
