About Deer Harbor Inn and Your Hosts

Discover the rich history and unique features of Deer Harbor Inn, along with the dedicated hosts committed to making your stay on Orcas Island an unforgettable experience. Whether you're in a cottage or lodge room, our hospitality ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

About Our Inn

Deer Harbor Inn has been a welcoming destination for visitors to Orcas Island for many years. The inn, set on five acres of apple orchards, retains much of its original charm and character, offering private cottages and comfortable lodging rooms. With close proximity to popular local attractions like whale watching, fishing, and kayaking, the inn continues to be a preferred choice for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and adventure. Its longstanding reputation for quality and hospitality reflects the essence of Orcas Island's community and natural beauty.

Our History

The Deer Harbor Inn is Orca's Island's oldest resort. Homesteaded as a commercial apple orchard in 1891, Patrick and Marty Norton opened Norton's Inn in 1910 at the request of Seattle School teachers. The Inn originally consisted of timber-framed canvas-topped structures built to house the teachers who made annual visits for their summer retreats. These structures became the nucleus of the expanding resort, which grew to include our 150-seat restaurant which was built in 1924.

During its heyday the Norton Inn had a 20 room hotel, 10 cabins, 2 tennis courts, a beachside swimming pool, softball field, miniature golf course and offered horseback riding. The 20 acre resort had a fully functioning dairy farm and raised chickens which was the backbone of Mary Norton's famous chicken dinners. A good crowd of islanders could be counted on to mingle with the off-island guests in the dining room. Mary Norton operated the restaurant up until her death in 1937, whereafter her son Felix and his wife Esther took over the resort operations.

In 1982, the Carpenter Family purchased the Inn and built the log cabin lodge and private cottages.

The historic Deer Harbor Inn contributed in putting this lovely village hamlet on the map as a unique vacation destination and special community. For nearly a century guests from all around the world have experienced the peaceful tranquility, lovely views and fabulous home-cooked meals at the Deer Harbor Inn Restaurant.

Our commitment remains to uphold the standard of the Inn's history by serving Island Hospitality in generous portions.