Seattle sits near beautiful waterways that make island hopping a prime activity. If you’re ready for a break from downtown’s hustle, head to these islands near Seattle. Each one showcases nature, dining, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for day trips or overnight adventures. This expanded guide covers how to get there, top things to do, and comfortable places to stay.
6 Islands Near Seattle You Must Visit
Washington’s Puget Sound region is dotted with islands that offer everything from scenic beaches to cozy cafes and art galleries. Below, you’ll find six popular islands. Each one is unique, yet all promise memorable Washington experiences. Let’s jump into the details so you can plan your next getaway.
1. Bainbridge Island
Distance from Seattle: About 10 miles west, accessible by a 35-minute ferry ride from the downtown Seattle ferry terminal. You can walk on or drive your car aboard the Washington State Ferries.
Overview & Things to Do: Bainbridge sits just a scenic ferry ride away from the heart of Seattle. Once you dock, the main town of Winslow greets you with charming shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Popular stops include the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art for local exhibits and the Bainbridge Historical Museum for island history. Outdoor lovers can explore Bloedel Reserve, a serene, landscaped estate with gardens and trails, or Fay Bainbridge Park for shoreline views.
Food & Drink: This island is known for its wine and local eats. Browse tasting rooms like Bainbridge Wineries, Eagle Harbor Wine Co., or Rolling Bay Winery. If beer is more your style, visit Bainbridge Brewing. For meals, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to farm-to-table dining. Try Restaurant Marche for French-inspired cuisine or grab a casual bite at Hitchcock Deli.
Places to Stay: If you want to linger overnight, look for cozy B&Bs or vacation rentals like this unique Hobbit House. The Inn at Pleasant Beach offers boutique rooms with water views. Booking ahead is wise during summer weekends.
2. Vashon Island
Distance from Seattle: Roughly 10 miles southwest, accessible by ferry from Fauntleroy in West Seattle. The crossing usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
Overview & Things to Do: Vashon is one of the biggest islands near Seattle, yet it remains unspoiled and rural. You’ll find scenic farmland, hidden beaches, and eclectic art studios. Rent a bike or drive around to see fields of lavender, orchard stands, and local markets. If you enjoy quirky sights, check out the famous Bike in the Tree. Nature lovers should visit Point Robinson Park to see the lighthouse and maybe glimpse Mount Rainier.
Food & Drink: Vashon’s small downtown features casual cafes, bakeries, and breweries. The Hardware Store Restaurant is a local favorite for homestyle meals. For sweets or coffee, pick up treats at Snapdragon Bakery. The island also has farm stands offering fresh eggs, produce, and artisan cheese, especially around Vashon Farmers Market.
Places to Stay: Overnight options include rustic cabins, B&Bs, and private vacation rentals with water views. Vashon Adventures can help with bike or kayak rentals if you want an active getaway. Give this Treehouse on Vashon a try or this Rustic Yurt. Book well in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a summer weekend.
3. Whidbey Island
Distance from Seattle: About 35 miles north. You can reach it via ferry from Mukilteo (about 20 minutes) to Clinton, or drive 1.5-2 hours to cross the Deception Pass Bridge at the north end.
Overview & Things to Do: Whidbey is the largest island in Washington, famous for small towns and waterfronts. Key stops include Langley (known for galleries and cafes), Coupeville (the second-oldest town in Washington, with a historic pier and Penn Cove mussels), and Oak Harbor (the biggest city on the island). Nature fans flock to Deception Pass State Park for dramatic coastlines, hiking trails, and a stunning bridge viewpoint. Ebey’s Landing near Coupeville is another popular hiking spot with sweeping shoreline vistas.
Food & Drink: Langley’s streets hide quaint bistros, bakeries, and ice cream shops. Knead & Feed or Bayview Farmers Market are worth a stop for fresh goodies. Coupeville is the place to try Penn Cove mussels at spots like Toby’s Tavern. Local wineries, such as Whidbey Island Winery or Spoiled Dog Winery, offer weekend tastings.
Places to Stay: Options range from cozy inns to bigger resorts. If you want a romantic vibe, try a tiny home. Oak Harbor has more budget-friendly hotels. Camping is also popular at Deception Pass or Fort Ebey State Park, but sites fill fast in summer.
4. San Juan Island
Distance from Seattle: About 90 miles north, but you’ll need to drive 1.5 hours to Anacortes and catch a ferry (60-90 minutes) to Friday Harbor. During peak seasons, consider reservations on the San Juan ferry.
Overview & Things to Do: Among the San Juan Islands, San Juan Island is the busiest, with Friday Harbor as its main hub. Explore shops, museums, and the marina, or visit the Whale Museum to learn about orcas. For outdoorsy fun, head to Lime Kiln Point State Park, famed for land-based whale watching. If you’re into history, check out the San Juan Island National Historical Park to learn about the “Pig War.”
Food & Drink: Friday Harbor’s dining scene includes seafood grills, local bakeries, and farm-to-table spots. Try a waterfront restaurant for fresh catches of the day or sample local produce at the San Juan Island Farmers Market. Breweries and cider houses dot the island, and you can also visit local farms for cheese and produce.
Places to Stay: Hotels, inns, and vacation rentals cluster around Friday Harbor like Lakedale Resort. For something serene, look for a waterside cabin at Snug Harbor Resort. Summer is prime whale-watching season, so reserve early.
5. Orcas Island
Distance from Seattle: Similar to San Juan Island, you’ll need to reach Anacortes first. From there, the ferry ride to Orcas can take around an hour, depending on stops. Reservations are strongly advised in summer and on weekends.
Overview & Things to Do: Orcas Island’s hilly terrain and forested parks make it an outdoor lover’s dream. Hike to waterfalls and summit viewpoints in Moran State Park, known for its scenic roads leading to Mount Constitution. Eastsound is the main village, offering boutiques, art galleries, and a weekly farmers market. Kayaking tours around the shoreline are popular for spotting seals, sea stars, and maybe orcas.
Food & Drink: The island’s restaurants focus on local ingredients from farms and fisheries. Grab pastries at Brown Bear Baking or savor a slow dinner at Doe Bay Cafe. Craft beer enthusiasts should explore local breweries like Island Hoppin’ Brewery, and orchard-based ciders can be found at farm stands.
Places to Stay: Orcas has inns, cabin rentals, and waterfront resorts. For somethign really unique try this Forest house. Book early for a prime lakeside or ocean-view rental. Camping is an option at Moran State Park, but sites go fast. If you enjoy wellness retreats, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is popular for soaking tubs and scenic decks.
6. Camano Island
Distance from Seattle: About 60 miles north, no ferry required. Drive north on I-5 to Stanwood, then cross a short bridge onto the island. The trip usually takes 1.5 hours.
Overview & Things to Do: Camano Island offers beaches, farmland, and quiet neighborhoods. The highlight is Cama Beach State Park, where historic cabins line the shore. Enjoy daily ranger-led events, boat rentals, and waterfront picnics. Nearby Camano Island State Park features hiking trails, boat launches, and scenic campsites. Art lovers can check out the Camano Arts Association for studio tours and art shows.
Food & Drink: Dining is low-key, with small eateries and delis. Local spots like the Camano Island Marketplace have coffee, lunch items, and homemade treats. During summer, watch for farmers markets featuring fresh vegetables, fruits, and baked goods. If you want to cook your own meals, pick up seafood or local produce to enjoy at your cabin or vacation rental.
Places to Stay: Cama Beach cabins can be rented when the weather is nice, or you can choose an Airstream on the water as well. The calm setting is ideal for a relaxing retreat.
Planning Your Islands near Seattle Trips
Getting Around: For ferry-based islands, check ferry schedules and consider making reservations for San Juan routes. Bainbridge and Vashon typically operate on a first-come basis, though Vashon can see lines on weekends. Whidbey has two main access points: the Mukilteo ferry or the Deception Pass Bridge. Camano needs no ferry, so timing is flexible.
When to Visit: Summer weekends bring sunny weather, farmers markets, and peak tourism. Accommodation costs might rise, so plan ahead. Spring and fall offer mild days with fewer crowds. Winter can be rainy, but rates drop, and the islands remain scenic with cozy indoor spots to enjoy warm drinks or a local brew.
What to Pack: Bring layers—weather can shift between cool mornings and warm afternoons. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking or hiking. If you plan to bike or kayak, check local rental availability or bring your own gear. Sun protection and water bottles are handy for outdoor excursions.
Final Thoughts
Seattle’s proximity to these islands lets you enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and creative communities. Each island has its own style: Bainbridge’s easy ferry ride and artsy shops, Vashon’s rural charm, Whidbey’s scenic towns, the San Juans’ wildlife and nature, and Camano’s stress-free drive. Whichever island you choose, you’ll find breathtaking views, friendly locals, and memories worth savoring.
Plan an island day trip or spend the weekend exploring quiet beaches, tasting local wine, and browsing galleries. Embrace the ferry ride or scenic bridge crossing—it’s all part of the adventure. Happy island hopping!
Islands Near Seattle FAQ
Which islands near Seattle are easiest to reach without a ferry?
Camano Island and Whidbey Island (via Deception Pass Bridge) require no ferry crossing. You can drive directly to both.
What’s the shortest ferry ride from Seattle?
Bainbridge Island is a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, making it one of the quickest and most popular day trip destinations.
When is the best time to visit the San Juan Islands?
Summer weekends offer sunny weather and farmers markets but can be crowded. Spring and fall bring fewer tourists and mild temperatures, while winter is rainy but has lower lodging rates.
Are there places to stay overnight on each island?
Yes! Each island features a variety of lodging, from B&Bs and vacation rentals to campgrounds. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak months.
Which islands near Seattle are best for whale watching?
San Juan Island and Orcas Island are well-known for orca sightings, especially during the warmer months. Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan Island is a top spot for land-based whale watching.
Content creator and writer for multiple websites including All About Glamping, Fit Living Lifestyle, and Live Dream Discover. A full-time traveler who has spoken at various travel conferences around the world.
