Vashon Island Travel Guide

This comprehensive Vashon Island travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting, including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Vashon Island

Vashon Island is a rural island situated in the heart of Puget Sound, Washington, about 20 minutes from Seattle by ferry. Accessible only by ferry, the island boasts natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant art and culture scene. With plenty of parks, beaches, trails, and historic landmarks, there is so much to explore on Vashon Island.

List of Places to Visit in Vashon Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vashon Heritage Museum: exhibits on island history and culture from Native American settlement to the present day.
  • Point Robinson Lighthouse: a restored 1915 lighthouse that offers tours and sweeping views of Puget Sound.
  • The Vashon Theatre: a historical landmark movie theater

Natural Attractions of Vashon Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dockton Park: located on the south end of the island, featuring a boat launch, hiking trails, picnic tables, and a sandy beach.
  • Maury Island Marine Park: scenic park with trails, beaches, and stunning views of Mount Rainier.
  • Island Center Forest: a public forest with a network of trails, perfect for hiking and biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vashon Island

  • Burton Peninsula Trail: 3-mile loop trail that starts and ends at Jensen Point Park.
  • Shinglemill Creek Trail: 2-mile trail that leads to the Maury Island Marine Park.

Best Things to Do in Vashon Island: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding: with miles of shoreline to explore, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on Vashon Island.
  • Farm visits and tours: the island is home to several small farms and sustainable agriculture operations that offer tours and workshops.
  • Art galleries and studios: Vashon Island has a thriving art scene, with a variety of galleries and studios featuring the work of local artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vashon Island

Day Activities
1 Visit Vashon Heritage Museum and Point Robinson Lighthouse
2 Hike Burton Peninsula Trail and explore Burton Historic District
3 Go kayaking or paddleboarding
4 Visit local farms and attend a workshop
5 Explore art galleries and studios
6 Bike Shinglemill Creek Trail and visit Maury Island Marine Park
7 Relax on the beach and enjoy local food and drink

Food and Drink Scene of Vashon Island

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Hardware Store Restaurant: delicious American fare made with local and organic ingredients.
  • The Ruby Brink: vegan cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, and pastries.
  • Snapdragon Bakery & Cafe: a bakery that offers freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Nashi Orchards: a winery that produces cider and perry from organic orchards.
  • Vashon Brewing Community: a microbrewery that serves beer, cider, and light snacks.

Where to Stay in Vashon Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Lodges on Vashon: a boutique hotel with modern amenities and fine dining.
  • Quartermaster Inn: a cozy bed and breakfast with elegant rooms and beautiful gardens.
  • Airbnb: a range of affordable accommodations, from cottages to beach houses, are available on Airbnb.

What to Buy in Vashon Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lavender Wind Farm: a farm and gift shop that sells handmade lavender products.
  • Minglement: a company that makes jewelry from beach glass and other natural materials found on Vashon Island.
  • Vashon Bookshop: a community bookstore that has a great selection of titles by local authors.

Local Culture and Customs of Vashon Island

  • The island has a strong sense of community and sustainability, with many residents committed to environmentally friendly practices and supporting local businesses.
  • Visitors are expected to respect the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, and many of the island’s attractions are low-key and low-impact.

Best Time to Visit Vashon Island

The best time to visit Vashon Island is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and dry, and many outdoor activities are available. However, the island is beautiful year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vashon Island

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the island.
  • Support local businesses and farmers.
  • Take advantage of opportunities to explore the island’s outdoor activities and cultural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the island’s natural resources.
  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of the island’s residential neighborhoods.
  • Bring pets onto beaches or nature trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vashon Island

Vashon Island is a safe destination, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. Visitors should exercise general caution, especially when hiking or kayaking, and should be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters, such as bears or snakes.

Health in Vashon Island

There are several medical clinics on Vashon Island, but visitors with serious medical conditions should seek treatment in Seattle, which is accessible by ferry. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for exposure to poison ivy, ticks, and other natural hazards while hiking or exploring the island’s outdoor areas.

Getting to Vashon Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Vashon Island by ferry from Seattle, Tacoma, and other nearby locations. Several ferry routes are available, and visitors should plan ahead and check ferry schedules and fares prior to their trip.

Airports Near Vashon Island

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: the largest airport in the area, located about 15 miles from the ferry terminal in Seattle.

Bus Stations Near Vashon Island

  • King County Metro Transit: provides bus service to the ferry terminal in Seattle.

Other Options

  • Water taxis: provide service between Seattle and Vashon Island.

How to Get Around in Vashon Island

Visitors can get around Vashon Island by car, bike, or on foot. Rental cars and bikes are available on the island, and several taxi and shuttle services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Vashon Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Seattle: vibrant city known for its landmarks, food, and culture.
  • Mount Rainier: stunning national park and wilderness area famous for its glaciers and mountain scenery.
  • Olympic National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its temperate rainforest, rugged coastline, and diverse wildlife.

Conclusion

Vashon Island is a unique and beautiful destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a peaceful getaway, this rural island in Puget Sound is an ideal destination. Plan your trip ahead and enjoy all that Vashon Island has to offer!

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