A Guide to Camano Island in Washington State

My Experience on Camano Island

I visited Camano island my first few weeks of living in Washington. I had always wanted to visit the Washington islands, so when I needed to find an airbnb for a few nights I started looking into this area. The spot I ended up staying at was on the west shores of Camano Island. After spending a few days hiking in the dense forest, walking along the beaches, and enjoying the foggy mornings, I knew I loved this island. Visiting Camano Island is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation with some of Washington’s best views. 

Getting to the Island

Click here for Google maps directions to Camano Island 

The drive from Seattle to this Washington Island is easy and fast. I would say this is the easiest island to visit in Washington besides Bainbridge. You’ll get on I-5 North for about an hour until you see the exit for Camano Island. From there you just head west until you hit the Camano WA! If you’re visiting the state park, it takes 1 hr and 13 min to get there from Seattle. 

The drive to the island is typically easier in the morning than in the afternoon/evening. I’ve noticed I’m always able to get up north without any trouble, but traffic is always terrible on my way back to Seattle. Plan for this and expect traffic to add on a few minutes even if you’re avoiding rush hour. 

Things To Do

One thing to note about the island is that you’re entering into a very slow paced town. Time seems to slow down when you’re here, and it’s rare to run into huge crowds of people. This is one of the reasons why I love to visit! It can be really relaxing to leave Seattle and go to Camano Island just for a break from the city. Many of these activities can be done in one day or spread out with relaxation time in between. 

Camano Island State Park

If you’re visiting the island, you have to go to this park. Not only is this my favorite park in Camano, but it’s also one of my favorite state parks in Washington. You can explore the beaches, hike on the many trails, camp, or use their picnic areas. No matter what you’re doing, you’ll also be enjoying the views of the Puget Sound and the surrounding Islands. 

To get into Camano Island State park you’ll have to have a Washington State Discover Pass or pay $10 for a day pass. If you’ll be visiting multiple Washington State Parks or even hiking trails in Washington within one year, you should buy a Discover Pass. They’re only 30 dollars and they’re valid for 12 months. I really appreciate that they don’t expire each calendar year!

Cama Beach State Park

Cama Beach is yet another state park on Camano Island! This park is a slightly shorter drive, maybe 5 or 10 minutes, from Seattle. You’ll see views of the Puget Sound and surrounding Washington Islands, a really cool beach, hiking trails, and there’s a cafe as well! You’ll also need to purchase a Discover Pass to stay at Cama Beach State park. 

Other Beaches 

Mabana Beach is another beach worth visiting. You’ll find lots of locals here with their dogs. Island County Parks Tillicum Beach is the first beach I’ve mentioned that’s on the east side of the island. It’s similar to the other beaches in that there’s tons of space to walk around on the beach. The difference is that you’ll get views to the East instead of out into the Puget Sound. 

Whale Watching 

Camano island is a popular spot for people trying to spot orcas and gray whales to visit. Keep in mind that you will have to do your whale watching from the shores here because there are not any guided whale watching boats available on this Washington island. Instead, you’ll have to visit Whidbey Island. 

Food on Camano Island

There are a few really great spots to eat on Camano Island! Here are a few of my favorites – 

1. Rockaway Bar and Grill
2. Tapped Camano
3. Camano Thai
4. Camano Island Coffee

Camping on Camano Island

Camano Island State Park –

Camping at the state park allows you to wake up in one of the most beautiful spots on Camano island. You can make your reservation here. You’ll also get all of the perks of the amenities at the park. Camano Island State Park has showers, bathrooms, accessible campsites, fire pits, and so much more.

Cama Beach Cabins

These cabins are a great option if you’re spending the weekend on the island. It’ll still feel like camping, but you have a little more shelter than you would in a tent. If your trip is looking like it’ll be rainy, look into staying in the cabins over a tent site.

Conclusion

This is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. There are plenty of things to do on the island, from hiking and biking to kayaking and boating. With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Camano Island hasn’t let me down. Pack your bags and get ready for a scenic and chill vacation.