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THINGS TO DO
Welcome to Vashon Island, a pastoral oasis in the middle of one of North America's most urban, high-tech regions. About 10,500 residents call Vashon Island home (more in the summer), including telecommuters, professors, potters, painters, musicians, writers and farmers. Visitors enjoy the sense of escape that island life offers. On a clear Saturday morning, ferries unload scores of cyclists who disperse to discover miles of quiet country roads. The island hosts festivals, art tours, farm tours, concerts and plays throughout the year. It is a wonderful place to bring children who are safe to discover starfish on the beach, go clamming, fish, or pick berries and lavender.
Planning Your Trip
Vashon Websites
A great place to start is the Vashon Chamber of Commerce website. There you can find information about shops and galleries, who to call about recreational activities (like horseback riding and kayaking), parks that offer picnicking, walking trails, and boat launches, and even someplace to pet an alpaca! They'll also give you the basics about Vashon's demographics.
The Vashon Pages list the websites of local businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as local events and happenings. It's a great place to take a peek at local restaurant menus and find out what is happening on the island.
Vashon Info is a comprehensive information site designed to answer questions for those thinking about becoming a part of the Vashon community. You can find information about local schools, bus routes, community events and much more.
Art
Vashon is home to many of the region's finest artists and the island hosts art tours, auctions, local theatre and musical performances throughout the year. The Vashon Community Calendar lists dates and times of local events so you can plan your trip around them. Look for art tours during the summer and in December when you can stock up on holiday gifts.
Seattle
If you are planning a week-day stay, you can leave your car on the island and take a 35-minute foot-ferry to Seattle's waterfront. From there you can visit the famed Pike Place Market, go out for a fabulous dinner, shop, or just drink coffee — you'll find someone selling coffee concoctions every ten feet. You may also opt to drive on the car ferry and take advantage of all the greater Seattle area has to offer.
Pt. Defiance Zoo
Right off the south end of Vashon Island is Point Defiance Park, a great place for an easy walk along the waterfront where you'll find picnic tables, wooded paths and the Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.
View from Land and Sea
A great way to tour the island is in the water by Kayak. You can rent a kayak about a mile from our bed and breakfast at Puget Sound Kayak. They also offer group tours and classes. Another great way to see the island is by bike. Bring your own or visit Vashon Island Bicycles for information about renting.
