FollowIsland hopping is always a unique way to see a region that is cut off from the rest of the world, cultivating distinct communities and a culture all of their own. If you don’t have it in the budget to head off to a tropical island destination, Seattle makes a great island hopping base. From Seattle you have several options that can be reached by car, ferry, plane and boat. Every island, or chain of islands, offers a different type of vacation so that you can put together the exact vacation that you are looking for.
Learn more about the many islands near Seattle to help you put together an island hopping getaway.
Island Hopping Near Seattle Washington
Bainbridge Island
A quick 35 minute ferry from Seattle Washington will have you on Bainbridge island to enjoy dramatic views of the Olympic Mountains. You may also enjoy hiking through its thick forest growth. Bainbridge is known for its quaint downtown district, the Bloedel Reserve and island vineyards. There are overnight accommodations in every price range and it makes a great base for further exploring the Olympics Mountains.
San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands have long been a well kept secret. However, word is out on the charms and tranquility that San Juan holds. Here you will find several islands, each with a different level of development. Each one offers a different type of island getaway.
Go whale watching, hike the islands to boat watch, shop for art in Friday Harbor and rent a sailboat or kayak for the day. The San Juan Islands are only accessible by boat or plane, so plan on hopping between them for a few days before moving on.
Whidbey Island
Wineries, distilleries, dramatic coastal views, lighthouses and history are just some of the draws for Whidbey Island. Guests coming over on the ferry would be smart to take the island and the coastal views in by exploring the first island byway in Washington.
Enjoy the sandy shores that are tucked in between dramatic craggy cliffs and then get out on the water where sailing is a way of life. Whidbey has long been a vacation destination, therefore, it is able to handle last minute guests. Dining and hotel options range from budget to luxury.
Vashon Island
One of the great things about taking a vacation to these destinations is that they are often unchanged from generation to generation. Many times they are still able to hold onto the simple life. Vashon Island happens to be one of those places. It is accessible only by ferry.
Vashon is a small community, mostly gathered around the small town of the same name. They are very welcoming to tourists that come through for the weekend or longer. If you are looking to get away from the world and just enjoy a slower pace of life, Vashon Island is where you want to be headed.
