Looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? A Vashon Island day trip is the perfect getaway just a short ferry ride from Seattle.
Whether you’re looking for serene beaches, charming cafes, or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do on Vashon Island to fill your day with fun and relaxation.
This Vashon Island day trip itinerary will guide you through the best Vashon Island tourist attractions, ensuring that your Vashon Island day trip is easy and memorable. From exploring lighthouses to dining at local restaurants, here’s how to plan the perfect day on Vashon Island.
How to Get to Vashon Island
The easiest way to reach Vashon Island is by ferry.
Ferries run regularly from both Seattle’s Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal and the Point Defiance Terminal in Tacoma. For a smooth start, catch an early ferry so you can maximize your time on the island.
The ferry ride itself is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of Puget Sound and, on clear days, Mount Rainier. Whether you’re driving your car onto the ferry or walking on as a pedestrian, the ride typically takes 20–30 minutes, depending on the route.
Pro tip: If you’re driving, try to arrive at the ferry terminal early, especially on weekends, as lines can get long.
For walk-on passengers, bring a good camera to capture the scenic ride!
Morning: Arrival and Breakfast
Once you arrive on Vashon Island, you should eat something to get ready for your trip.
It’s possible to have a full breakfast at one of the many cozy bars and breakfast places on the island.
People love to have breakfast at the Hardware Store Restaurant because of the delicious food and lovely, natural atmosphere.
The Snapdragon Bakery and Cafe is known for its fresh desserts and coffee, so head there if you need something quick. You can walk to both places from the boat port, so these are great places to stop when you get there.
After breakfast, take a short walk around Vashon Town to see the shops and get a feel for how cozy the island is.
Mid-Morning: Outdoor Exploration
With breakfast out of the way, it’s time to explore some of Vashon Island’s natural beauty. The island offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all interests.
Point Robinson Lighthouse
A must-see on Vashon Island is the Point Robinson Lighthouse, located on the island’s east side.
On a beautiful beach with spectacular views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier stands this old lighthouse.
Take some time to stroll along the beach, take pictures, and enjoy the peace and quiet.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some animals like seals or bald eagles.
Maury Island Marine Park
For those who love hiking and coastal views, head to Maury Island Marine Park, just a short drive from the lighthouse.
This park has beautiful trails right next to the beach where you can see the water and islands in the area. This is a great place to take a morning stroll or surf the web. Bring comfortable shoes for your feet as some of the trails can be rough.
If you have extra time, you can enjoy Vashon’s natural beauty at more places like Fisher Pond or Fern Cove Nature Preserve.
Lunch Break
After your morning of exploring, it’s time to relax and enjoy lunch. Vashon Island is home to several fantastic eateries that highlight local, farm-to-table cuisine.
If you want a casual lunch, visit The Rock Island Pizza. They make delicious wood-fired pies with fresh, local ingredients. If you want something lighter, The Ruby Brink is also a great option. It’s famous for its burgers and seasonal soups.
If you prefer to eat outside, you can take lunch to one of the island’s parks or beaches. You can enjoy your meal and peace at Point Robinson Park, which has picnic tables and beautiful views.
Afternoon: Arts and Culture
Vashon Island is not only known for its natural beauty but also its vibrant arts community. Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s creative side by visiting local galleries and cultural hubs.
Start with a visit to the Vashon Center for the Arts, where you can admire local artworks and possibly catch a live performance or exhibit, depending on the time of your visit. This cultural center is a key part of the island’s arts scene and often hosts events featuring local artists.
If you’re a fan of shopping for unique items, take a stroll around Vashon Town to visit some of the local galleries and boutiques. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to ceramics, all crafted by Vashon’s talented artisans.
Be sure to stop by The Heron’s Nest, a shop featuring works by more than 70 local artists.
Late Afternoon: More Outdoor Adventures
Late morning or early afternoon is the best time to enjoy even more of Vashon Island’s natural beauty. With its quiet beaches and lush protected areas, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to go on adventures outdoors.
KVI Beach
One of the most beautiful places on Vashon Island is KVI Beach, which was named after the old KVI radio station that used to broadcast from a tower nearby. The beach is very open and stretches for miles, giving you great views of Puget Sound and the surrounding islands. The beach is known for its smooth sand, making it a great place to stroll or look for interesting rocks and seashells.
If you visit KVI Beach on a hot day, you can lay out in the sun or walk in the calm waters. The calm waters make it a good place for families. Children can play in the water while adults can relax on the shore. There are often tidal pools during low tide, where you can spot small sea creatures like crabs and sea stars. Not only does this beach have one of the most beautiful sunset views on the island, but if you’re there in the evening, don’t leave until you’ve seen the sunset.
Wildlife watching: KVI Beach is a popular spot for bird watchers, so keep an eye out for bald eagles and other birds. Seals can sometimes be seen frolicking in the water or fishing off the beach.
Shinglemill Creek Preserve
Shinglemill Creek Preserve has a beautiful hiking trail that leads through dense forests and along a clear creek for a more immersive outdoor experience. The park is named after an old shingle mill that used to be in the area. Now, nature enthusiasts can head there to relax in peace.
The hiking trail here is moderate in challenge, running for about 1.7 miles (one way) through a mix of old-growth trees and open fields. As you walk, you’ll be joined by the soothing sounds of the creek, which runs along parts of the trail. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as deer, owls, and many smaller wild animals. If you’re lucky, you may even see salmon moving upstream when they’re ready to spawn.
Photography tip:
Shinglemill Creek is at its most beautiful in the fall when the leaves change from green to orange, yellow, and red. The canopy of trees softens the light, creating a soft glow that is great for taking nature photos.
Shinglemill Creek Preserve is also a great place to get away from busy places if you want to relax in peace. With benches placed along the walk, it’s a great place to stop, reflect, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take a break with a bottle of water and some snacks while enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest.
Biking and Kayaking
Bike rides:
There are a variety of biking tracks on the island, ranging from easy to slightly more challenging. For a scenic ride, head to the southern tip of the island, where you’ll find spectacular views of the coastline and neighboring islands. Vashon Bikes and other shops in the area let you rent bikes, or you can bring your own if you’re taking the ferry with a car.
Kayaking:
For water lovers, kayaking around Vashon Island’s coastline is a wonderful way to experience its natural beauty. Rent a kayak from local companies like Vashon Watersports and paddle along the shore to discover secret coves and quiet beaches. If you’re lucky, you might even spot sea otters or seals swimming by. Many kayakers recommend exploring the waters near Tramp Harbor for calm waters and beautiful views.
Dinner Options
As the day on Vashon Island comes to an end, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the best places on the island. Many of the restaurants on the island focus on farm-to-table dining, which means they use fresh food from nearby farms.
The Little House is a great place to go for dinner because it is cozy and the food is made with ingredients from the area. If you want seafood, Vashon Island Coffee Roastery has it. They serve fresh seafood that is caught in a way that does not harm the environment.
If you want to end your day with a view, The Lodge on Vashon has restaurants where you can sit outside and enjoy a meal while watching the sunset.
Evening: Ferry Ride Back to Seattle
After a full day of exploring, it’s time to head back to Seattle. Find out when the boat runs in the evening and plan to get on it. It’s usually less busy and a nice ride back across the water.
Sunset is the most beautiful time to ride the boat because you can enjoy the views one last time before heading back to the city.
Tips for a Perfect Vashon Island Day Trip
To make the most of your Vashon Island day trip, here are a few additional tips:
- Best time to visit: Vashon Island is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or summer months (May to September) when the weather is warm and the days are long.
- Packing essentials: Bring a daypack with essentials like sunscreen, water, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Since the weather can be unpredictable, pack layers in case it gets chilly or rains.
- Extra activities: If you have extra time, consider visiting the Vashon Island Farmers Market (open Saturdays) to pick up some local produce, or stop by Nashi Orchards for a cider tasting.
Conclusion
A Vashon Island day trip offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture, all within easy reach of Seattle. From exploring the Vashon Island tourist attractions like the Point Robinson Lighthouse to enjoying the island’s vibrant arts scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking, dining, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Vashon Island promises a day of fun and unforgettable experiences.
Start planning your trip today and discover why Vashon Island is one of Washington’s hidden gems.
FAQs
How to spend a perfect day on Vashon Island?
There is a coffee shop on Vashon Island where you can have a coffee after you get there by boat. Taste wine at Palouse Winery after visiting Point Robinson Park and the lighthouse. After lunch at the Hardware Store Restaurant, check out some local art and then go for a walk in Maury Island Marine Park. Finally, take the boat back to the mainland.
Can you see orcas from Vashon Island?
Yes, you can sometimes see orcas from Vashon Island. People often spot them in the ocean surrounding the island, especially in the fall and winter. You may see them, but not always because it depends on when they migrate and when they hunt. Point Robinson Park and other locations near the island’s shores are the best places to see them.
Do you need a car for Vashon Island?
You don’t need a car to visit Vashon Island, but having one can make it easier to explore. The island is large, and some places are far apart, so driving can save time. However, you can also walk, bike, or use public buses to get around if you prefer not to bring a car.
Is there Uber on Vashon Island?
Yes, Uber is available on Vashon Island, but it can be limited. There are fewer drivers compared to larger cities, so wait times might be longer, especially during off-peak hours. It’s a good idea to plan ahead or consider other transportation options like taxis or rental cars.
Why is there no bridge to Vashon Island?
There is no bridge to Vashon Island because building one would be very expensive and difficult. The waters between the island and the mainland are deep, which makes construction hard. Also, some people like the island being more peaceful and less crowded, and a bridge might bring more traffic and development. Many people use ferries to get to and from the island, which helps keep it quiet and special.