Did you know that Vashon Island has no bridges connecting it to mainland Washington? This intentional isolation has created one of the Puget Sound’s most charming and unhurried destinations, where time seems to slow down and city stress melts away as soon as you step off the ferry. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Seattle or Tacoma, this 37 square km (13 square mile) island offers a perfect escape from urban life with its thriving arts scene, farm-to-table dining, and natural beauty that captivates visitors year-round.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
As an island with no bridge access, reaching Vashon requires taking one of three ferry routes. Each offers its own scenic views of the Puget Sound and a perfect introduction to island life.
Ferry Options
- Fauntleroy Ferry (from Seattle): Departing from West Seattle, this 20-minute crossing is the most popular route. Arrive 30 minutes early on weekdays and up to an hour early on summer weekends to secure a spot.
- Point Defiance Ferry (from Tacoma): A 15-minute crossing from northwest Tacoma that lands on the southern end of the island. Generally less crowded than the Seattle route.
- Southworth Ferry: Connects the Kitsap Peninsula to Vashon, ideal if you’re coming from Bainbridge Island or Gig Harbor.
If you’re flying into the region, book a flight to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, then rent a car for the 30-minute drive to the ferry terminal. For those planning a broader Pacific Northwest adventure, consider cruise options that include Seattle as a port of call, allowing you to add Vashon as a day trip to your itinerary.
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Vashon Island experiences the classic Pacific Northwest climate with distinct seasons, each offering a different island experience.
Seasonal Guide to Vashon Island
| Season | Temperature | Precipitation | Recommendation |
| Summer (June-August) | 18-26°C (65-80°F) | Low | Ideal time to visit! Perfect for outdoor activities, farm stands, and beach exploration. |
| Fall (September-October) | 10-18°C (50-65°F) | Moderate | Beautiful fall colors, harvest festivals, fewer tourists. |
| Winter (November-February) | 3-10°C (38-50°F) | High | Quiet season with many businesses closed or on limited hours. |
| Spring (March-May) | 8-17°C (46-63°F) | Moderate | Blooming season with reopening farm stands and increasing activities. |
The day of the week matters almost as much as the season. Weekends bring day-trippers from Seattle and Tacoma, creating a lively atmosphere, while weekdays offer a more tranquil experience. Most wineries, cideries, and some shops only open on weekends (sometimes including Thursday and Friday), so plan accordingly if these attractions are on your list.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in July, try to catch the Strawberry Festival, one of the island’s most important annual events celebrating its agricultural heritage.
Getting Around Locally
While Vashon Island isn’t large at just 37 square km (13 square miles), its rural nature and scattered attractions make transportation planning important.
Transportation Options
By Car
A car provides the most flexibility for exploring the island’s scattered attractions. All ferries to Vashon are car ferries, making it easy to bring your vehicle. If you’re flying in, renting a car is recommended for maximum exploration freedom.
By Bicycle
Vashon is popular with cyclists, though be prepared for some hills. Rent bikes from Vashon Adventures in downtown Vashon, including e-bikes that make the island’s terrain more manageable.
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Where to Stay on Vashon Island
Vashon offers a variety of charming accommodations that reflect the island’s laid-back character. From cozy B&Bs to unique vacation rentals, you’ll find options that enhance your island experience.
Accommodation Options
- The Lodges on Vashon: Modern, minimalist lodges in downtown Vashon with a communal pavilion and fire pit.
- Point Robinson Lighthouse Keepers’ Quarters: Historic accommodations right next to the lighthouse with stunning views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound.
- Vashon Vacation Rentals: Various cabins, cottages, and homes available throughout the island, many with waterfront views or forest settings.
- AirBnBs and VRBOs: Numerous private rentals offering unique stays, from farmhouses to artist studios.
Note: Vashon has limited hotel options, so book well in advance, especially during summer months and festival weekends.
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Dining & Local Cuisine
For a small island, Vashon boasts an impressive culinary scene fueled by local farms, talented chefs, and a commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Must-Try Restaurants
May Kitchen + Bar
Authentic Thai cuisine that locals claim is the best in the region. Their Pad Kee Mao and green curry are standout dishes, with many gluten-free options available.
Snapdragon
A 100% vegetarian café with a daily-changing menu, excellent pastries, and a lovely outdoor patio. Perfect for breakfast or lunch in a relaxed setting.
Bramble House
Upscale dining featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Reservation recommended for this popular spot run by a former “Top Chef” contestant.
Local Food Experiences
- Farm Stands: Explore the island’s many self-service farm stands offering seasonal produce, flowers, and homemade goods. Plum Forest Farm and Aeggy’s are local favorites.
- Vashon Farmers Market: Visit on Saturdays (April-October) for a comprehensive selection of island-grown produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
- Vashon Island Baking Company: Don’t miss their famous maple bacon croissants and bear claws, made with locally-sourced ingredients.
- Glass Bottle Creamery: Delicious ice cream featuring seasonal island fruits (open Friday-Sunday during warmer months).
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Vashon Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and quirky attractions that make for a memorable visit.
Top Attractions
- Point Robinson Lighthouse: This historic 1885 lighthouse offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound. Walk the beach, explore the grounds, and watch for marine life.
- Downtown Vashon: The island’s charming commercial hub (locals call it “Uptown”) features unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Don’t miss Vashon Bookshop, Giraffe (for home goods), and Hinge Gallery.
- The Bike in the Tree: A quirky island landmark where a tree has grown around an abandoned bicycle, creating a unique sight that’s become part of local lore.
- Vashon Heritage Museum: Learn about the island’s history from indigenous peoples to present day (note: reopening July 2024 after renovations).
Beverage Experiences
Dragon’s Head Cider
Sample artisanal ciders made from apples grown in their orchard. Their tasting room offers flights in a picturesque setting about a mile from downtown.
Nashi Orchards
Known for their unique Asian Pear Cider, this south-end cidery offers tastings of their distinctive perry and cider blends on weekends.
Camp Colvos Brewing
A popular gathering spot with a variety of craft beers on tap, a spacious outdoor patio with fire pits, and a friendly atmosphere.
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Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Vashon’s natural beauty makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of shoreline, forest trails, and scenic viewpoints to explore.
Hiking & Nature Exploration
- Island Center Forest: A 440-acre forest preserve with over 9 km (6 miles) of trails through diverse ecosystems. The perimeter loop offers a longer hike, while interior trails provide shorter options.
- Shinglemill Creek Preserve: A lovely 3.8 km (2.4 mile) loop trail with some elevation changes and a side trail to Fern Cove beach.
- Maury Island Marine Park: Hike down to the beach for spectacular views of Mount Rainier across the Puget Sound. A 3.2 km (2 mile) trail leads from the parking area to the shoreline.
- Lisabeula Park: A perfect spot to watch the sunset, with a wide beach, picnic tables, and plenty of driftwood. Faces west for optimal sunset views.
Beach Activities
With 72 km (45 miles) of shoreline, Vashon offers numerous beaches for exploration. KVI Beach, Jensen Point, and Fern Cove are popular spots for beachcombing, wildlife watching, and relaxing by the water. Keep your eyes open for seals, otters, and even the occasional orca pod passing by!
Wildlife Watching Tip: The east side of the island, particularly around Point Robinson, offers the best opportunities for spotting marine mammals. Bring binoculars and visit during morning hours for optimal viewing.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Vashon Island visit with these helpful insights and recommendations.
Ferry Tips
- Check the Schedule: Ferry times change seasonally. Always verify the current schedule before planning your trip.
- Arrive Early: During peak times (summer weekends, holidays), arrive 45-60 minutes before departure to secure a spot.
- Consider Walk-On: If staying near downtown, consider walking on the ferry and renting bikes to avoid vehicle wait times.
- Return Planning: The last ferries typically leave Vashon around 11:30 PM to Seattle and 11:00 PM to Tacoma, but verify current schedules.
Island Etiquette & Customs
What’s “Island Time”?
Vashon operates at a slower pace than the mainland. Service at restaurants may be unhurried, and locals value quality over speed. Embrace this relaxed attitude as part of the island experience.
How should I approach farm stands?
Most farm stands operate on the honor system. Take what you want and leave payment in the provided box. Exact change is appreciated but not required.
Are there ATMs on the island?
Yes, there are ATMs in downtown Vashon, but they’re limited. It’s best to bring cash, especially for farm stands and smaller businesses.
What about cell service?
Cell coverage is generally good in downtown and northern areas but can be spotty in southern parts of the island and Maury Island. Download maps and information before exploring remote areas.
Important: Vashon Island has limited medical facilities. For emergencies, call 911, but be aware that serious medical issues may require transport to mainland hospitals.
Experience the Magic of Vashon Island
Vashon Island offers a perfect escape from the hustle of city life, with its blend of natural beauty, artistic spirit, and rural charm. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the island’s unhurried pace and friendly community create a refreshing change of scenery just minutes from Seattle and Tacoma.
From exploring the Point Robinson Lighthouse to sampling local ciders, hiking through lush forests, and discovering unique farm stands, Vashon rewards visitors with authentic experiences and memorable moments. As you plan your visit, remember that the journey to Vashon—with its scenic ferry ride and immediate sense of stepping into a different world—is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
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