Get to Know Vashon Island
The island gem of Puget Sound
Nestled in the heart of Puget Sound, Vashon Island stands as Washington’s largest island, a verdant escape uniquely accessible by boat or ferry. Just a 15-minute ride from Seattle’s Fauntleroy Terminal or a slightly quicker trip from Tacoma’s Point Defiance ushers visitors into its embrace, a world apart from the hustle of city life. The island features a public airport and a private airstrip at the celebrated Misty Island Farms; however, it does not offer regular air services. On weekdays, the King County Metro bus line traverses the island, conveniently linking travelers to the passenger ferry system.
Vashon is more than just a geographic locale; it’s a vibrant community with deep historical roots and a spirited cultural scene. The island’s natural beauty invites exploration and adventure, from its forested trails to its rugged shorelines. History buffs will appreciate its rich tapestry, woven through decades of indigenous heritage, agricultural development, and artistic flourishing.
Community life on Vashon is marked by an array of cultural events, local artistry, and a commitment to sustainable living that resonates deeply with residents and visitors alike. The island’s economy thrives on a blend of tourism, artisan crafts, and locally sourced agriculture, ensuring that each visit is both refreshing and rewarding. With its combination of scenic beauty, community warmth, and cultural richness, Vashon Island remains a cherished jewel in the Puget Sound, offering a tranquil yet enriching escape from the everyday.
Visitors can explore miles of lush hiking trails, wander through local art galleries, or relax at cozy waterfront cafes. Vashon’s community is deeply rooted in environmental stewardship and artistic expression, hosting seasonal farmers’ markets that showcase organic local produce and handcrafted goods. Whether it’s kayaking along quiet bays, attending unique island festivals like the Strawberry Festival, or simply enjoying the slower pace of island life, Vashon offers a breadth of activities that cater to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to connect with a close-knit community. The island’s welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and cultural depth make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful yet enriching escape.
ABOUT VASHON
Historical Tapestry of Vashon
Long before it became a sought-after destination for day-trippers and nature lovers, Vashon Island was home to the Native American tribe known as the Squamish (sounds like skwaamish), part of the Puget Sound Salish people. These indigenous inhabitants relied on the island’s abundant land and marine resources for their livelihood, which included timber, fresh water, and a rich variety of food sources provided by the surrounding waters. Despite suffering devastating losses due to European diseases during the 1770s to the 1850s and subsequent displacement, the Squamish people’s presence and culture remain a foundational element of the island’s history.
By the early 1800s, European and Japanese immigrants began to shape the island’s development. The island transformed into a hub of diverse agricultural activities, prominently featuring farms operated by Japanese Americans from the 1900s onward. Notable industries such as Wax Orchards, the K2 Factory, and Seattle’s Best Coffee, which originated as Stewart Brothers’ Coffee, mark the island’s industrious evolution. Vashon has also been a long-standing enclave for artists of various mediums and has played a vital role in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, particularly during the height of the AIDS pandemic in the 1980s and 90s.
Vibrant Community Life
Today, Vashon Island is celebrated for its vibrant community life, which blossoms particularly in the spring and summer months. This period welcomes a flurry of activities, from challenging bike rides like the Passport to Pain to the beloved Bill Burby fun run during the Strawberry Festival in July. The island vibrates with outdoor concerts, a bustling local farmers’ market, and delightful wine, brew, and cider tours showcasing Vashon’s rich bounty.
This website has the information you need to plan your visit to Vashon Island, including special events like weddings and family gatherings, places to stay, and things to do on Vashon Island.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for or have any questions about the Island, please contact us at any time.
We’re here to help ensure your trip is unforgettable. Our comprehensive guide covers all aspects of your Vashon Island visit, from cozy accommodations to thrilling outdoor activities and cultural gems. Explore detailed listings of local restaurants that serve everything from gourmet farm-to-table meals to comforting diner fare.
Discover the various art studios and galleries that celebrate Vashon’s rich artistic heritage, or plan a day trip around the island’s numerous parks and natural preserves.
Our aim is to provide you with all the resources you need to tailor a visit that perfectly matches your interests and expectations.
Get to Know Vashon Island
The Simple Lifestyle On Vashon Island Today
With a populace of nearly 11,000 residents, the island maintains its charm with a relaxed lifestyle reminiscent of a bygone era. There are no freeways, and the main roads across the island are lightly traveled and somewhat in need of repair. A large percentage of the inhabitants are artists or owners of small family-sized farms. Without a connecting bridge to the mainland, industry and businesses are not interested in locating there. To preserve their comfortably casual style of living, the people who call the island home have fought vigorously to prevent a bridge from being built, which they are sure would be an invitation to the large agricultural industry. The only way for visitors to access Vashon Island is by ferry. Several ferry lines run dozens of trips daily from the mainland. In fact, it only takes 22 minutes to reach the island from Seattle by ferry.
Restaurants
Vashon is home to many well known places to eat on the Island. With many pizza, Mexican style, bistro, cafes and an nationally recognized Thai restaurant you can’t go wrong with your choice.
Lodging/Accomodations
There are nearly 200 Airbnb listings on Vashon, and many of them are on VRBO as well. Visitors can book just a room in someone’s home, a small cottage/studio in a backyard, a full home on some land or with a water view or enjoy a stay at the Vashon hotel in town “The Lodges“.
Parks
What a lot of people don’t know is that Vashon is home to many parks to visit with many miles of trails and beach to enjoy. A couple of the parks even have historical locations you can book for an evening or more for a mini-vacation on the water.