Ever been to Vashon Island? You can drive there, kind of, in less than half an hour — but you gotta take the ferry!

The unsung heroes of the Puget Sound tourism industry are the Washington State Ferries. And if you’ve ever had the pleasure of standing at the stern of one of those white-and-green ships watching the skyline expand behind the wake, then you’re sure to agree.

The Washington State Ferries are great for getting to explore some of the Puget Sound islands near Seattle by foot or by car, and it’s as easy as driving anywhere else! Shave a few hours off your driving time and, instead, take a stunning ferry ride through the Sound to your next day-trip destination. 

Vashon Island is one of those great destinations, so here’s a quick introduction to the island and what you can see and do while you’re there!

Getting there

The only way to get to Vashon Island is via a ferry or a private craft. Unlike some of the other islands in the Puget Sound, there are no bridges connecting Vashon Island to any other land mass. You’ll just have to do it the fun way!

Two ferry terminals at both ends of the island are where you’ll land, regardless of the ferry line you take, and you can get to them a number of ways.

The easiest and most convenient for anyone living close to or luxury Seattle apartments is via the Vashon Island – Seattle Pier 50 ferry route departing from the Seattle Ferry Terminal. Hop on the King County Water Taxi and it will get you to the Vashon Island North-End Ferry Terminal in just 22 minutes! 

Be aware, though, that this route is a passenger-only route. If you want to take your vehicle to the island, utilize the routes listed below! 

Vehicle/passenger ferries to Vashon Island: 

• The Washington State Ferry via the Fauntleroy Terminal in West Seattle, arriving at the Vashon Island North-End Ferry Terminal.
• The Washington State Ferry via the Southworth Terminal, also arriving at the Vashon Island North-End Ferry Terminal.
• The Washington State Ferry via the Point Defiance Ferry Terminal, arriving at the Tahlequah Ferry Terminal on the south end of the island. 

Visiting Vashon Island via ferry

At just under 14 miles from end to end, Vashon Island is small enough to drive around in a day, but still big enough to keep you busy exploring the various beaches, restaurants, trails and markets sprinkled across the island.

Food and drink

You’ll find plenty of dining options in downtown Vashon, with options ranging from burgers to butcher shops to pizza, Mexican and more. Here are some of our favorite spots to eat!

The Wild Mermaid

Just steps from the Vashon Island North-End Ferry Terminal, this all-in-one eatery is a great first stop on Vashon Island. It overlooks the water, has some beautiful outdoor seating and, while small, has the kind of quality food that brings locals back time and time again. Grab some freshly-baked pastries and a coffee, stock up on your favorite Mediterranean groceries or enjoy a craft cocktail overlooking the water. 

For foot passengers heading to Vashon Island, this is a must-visit spot! 

Palouse Winery

Sporting stunning outdoor seating with views of the surrounding island, this dog-friendly, family-run winery features award-winning Washington-grown wines. They are known for their Bordeaux-standard reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, but are also a great place to go to find up-and-coming varieties. The staff are super knowledgeable and passionate about their wines, so just ask!

Snapdragon

This vegetarian coffee shop is a must-try in downtown Vashon. Gorgeous pastries, savory bites, mouth-watering meals and all the coffee and cocktails you could want makes this beautifully-decorated café a haven for foodies and friends alike. 

Outdoor activities

The nice thing about islands is that there are beaches everywhere, and this is certainly true for Vashon Island! 

Shinglemill Creek Natural Area

This creek-carved valley is teeming with life and has a few miles’ worth of trails weaving through the trees and alongside the creek. Enter the park from the north by the beach-side cove or from the south across from Vashon Winery, 

Wingehaven Park

A short, half-mile hike through some beautiful forest leads to a private grassy park that’s perfect for a picnic in the water. 

KVI Beach

With dramatic views of the cliffs and water, this beach has plenty of space to roam and access the rest of the shoreline. Long walks on the beach: here we come. 

Vashon Disc Golf Course

Vashon Island boasts only one disc golf course, located at the Burton Adventure Recreation Center. It's a 9-hole, par 33 course nestled within the BARC property, offering a fun and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. 

Maury Island Marine Park

Located on the southeastern cliffs of Maury Island, this marine park is a haven for nature lovers of all kinds. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and sea birds nesting by the cliffs, and take in the unique ecology of the Puget Sound shoreline. 

Point Robinson Lighthouse

This small park on the eastern tip of Vashon Island features a lighthouse, a short trail, a wooden sculpture and two historical lighthouse keepers’ houses that are available to rent. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, this is it!

Vashon Island has so much to give, from its quaint downtown eateries to its shorefront parks, farmers market, wineries and more. Make a trip there from Seattle and spend a day or weekend sampling all the joys that this Puget Sound gem has to offer. 

Enjoy!

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Featured photo by Gulnaz Sh. on Unsplash