Best Places to Visit on Camano Island, Washington
You don’t need to go far to find a peaceful getaway. Camano Island in Washington sits just across the bridge from the mainland, but it feels like a world of its own. The sounds of traffic fade, the sky feels a little bigger, and the shoreline seems to stretch forever.
This isn’t a place for busy schedules. It’s for slow mornings, long walks, and unplanned moments that stay with you. Hence, to help you make the most of your visit, here are a few places that bring out the best of what this island has to offer.
Wake Up to Waves at Cama Beach of Camano Island in Washington
Cama Beach takes you back in time in the best way possible. The cabins by the shore were once used as summer retreats for families in the 1930s, and today, they still offer that same simple charm. The moment you arrive, you’ll notice how quiet and easy everything feels. It’s the kind of place where you can finally slow down.
What Makes It Special?
One of the best things about staying here is how close you are to the water. You can wake up in the morning, step outside, and hear the waves gently hitting the shore. Each cabin faces the bay, so the views are always amazing. There’s no Wi-Fi or television, which might seem unusual at first, but that’s what makes it special. Without screens, you spend more time outside, talking, walking, or just enjoying the moment!
Moreover, the Center for Wooden Boats is right on site, where you can learn about hand-built boats or try a woodworking class. You can also rent a rowboat or kayak, and soon you’ll be floating in peace.
Let the Woods Lead You to Camano Island State Park
Camano Island State Park sits just a short drive from Cama Beach, yet the moment you arrive, it feels like a different world. This place is quieter, thicker with trees, and filled with that kind of stillness that only deep woods can offer.
What Makes It Special?
The trails here offer different ways to explore. Some are flat and quiet, great for a slow walk, while others climb just enough to give you big, open views of the water. One trail leads to a bluff with a picnic spot that looks right over Puget Sound. Additionally, it’s one of those places where the sunset feels extra special, especially when the sky turns soft shades of orange and pink.
Along the way, you might see bald eagles soaring or hear them calling from the trees. Closer to the shore, driftwood is scattered across the sand, and little tidepools hold tiny sea creatures tucked between the rocks.
Art Hides Among the Trees at Matzke Park
This isn’t your usual gallery. Spread across 10 acres, Matzke Park blends sculptures with nature in a way that keeps you curious. As you follow the trails, large art pieces appear between trees, turning the walk into something unexpected.
What Makes It Special?
Each sculpture feels like it belongs where it stands. Some are bold and bright, while others are soft and detailed, but all fit into the landscape without feeling out of place. You don’t always see them right away, which makes each one feel like a quiet surprise. There’s also an indoor gallery with rotating shows that highlight Northwest artists. Inside, you get a closer look at different styles and ideas, which makes the visit more meaningful.
Follow the Shoreline at Iverson Spit Preserve
On the east side of Camano Island in Washington, this quiet place brings a little bit of everything, including beach, wetlands, and wide open views. There’s a trail to walk, a long spit that reaches into the water, and lots of space to explore.
What Makes It Special?
The walk here feels calm and simple. The trail goes through a marsh, and some parts have wooden boardwalks to help you cross. You’ll hear birds, see them fly above, or catch them resting near the water. Then, when you get to the beach, everything feels open. There are driftwood logs, shells, and the fresh smell of the sea.
The ground is flat, so it’s easy for kids and adults alike. But even with that, the wide sky and view of the water make the place feel big and peaceful. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Baker far in the distance. If you enjoy taking photos or watching birds, this place is perfect.
Hang Out Like a Local at Camano Commons
Camano Commons feels like the island’s gathering place. It’s not large, but it brings people together for coffee, food, and relaxed time outdoors. The area has a friendly, small-town feel that makes you want to stay a little longer.
What Makes It Special?
It’s easy to spend a whole afternoon here. You can start with coffee from Camano Island Coffee Roasters, then walk over to the bakery for a sweet treat. The open green space in the middle invites you to sit for a while, and if you’re lucky, you might catch some live music. People come here to relax, talk, and enjoy the simple things.
Take a Peaceful Loop Through Elger Bay Preserve
Not far from the Commons, Elger Bay Preserve offers a quiet break from the busy world. The trail makes a loop through deep, green forest, and the air smells fresh with trees and damp earth. It’s a quiet spot, with birds singing all around.
What Makes It Special?
You’ll often hear the sound of running water as you walk. The trail stays soft and shaded, with sunlight slipping through the trees in just the right way. It’s a calm space, never too busy, and full of quiet details if you take the time to look. Once you’re done, Elger Bay Beach is close by. What’s more? It’s a lovely spot for collecting shells or walking along the shore!
Conclusion
All in all, Camano Island in Washington isn’t built for speed or spectacle. It’s made for slow mornings, long walks, small joys, and hidden corners that surprise you. Each spot on this list offers something a little different, and together, they give you a full picture of what makes this island worth visiting. Visit our website to book your trip!
