Washington’s Pacific coastal waters are dotted with dramatic outcroppings of rock and small islands crowned by tiny patches of rainforest. These islands are scenic but mostly uninhabited and inaccessible. But in the vast saltwater inlets that flow from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the southernmost reaches of Puget Sound, you’ll find numerous large islands that are both scenic and accessible, including the San Juan Islands, Lummi, Whidbey, Camano, Bainbridge, Vashon, Anderson, Harstine and many more. As the crow flies, none of them are far from western Washington’s Bellingham-to-Olympia urban corridor; but their rural tranquility makes them seem like they’re worlds away. Most of these islands are readily accessible by bridge, the Washington State Ferry system, boat and plane. Together, they offer a wealth of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, cultural destinations and delights for wine and cuisine enthusiasts.
