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If you are looking for an easy Pacific Northwest getaway that doesn’t require a long drive, a ferry ride or complicated planning, Camano Island is full of local charm and worth a spot on your list. Just over an hour north of Seattle, it offers beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures and a thriving arts community, all within a short drive of one another.
Camano Island’s small size and easy pace make it especially appealing for families. Those seeking adventure can zip through the forest canopy, perfect their shot at a local archery range, or have kayaks and crab pots delivered straight to the beach. Families looking for a more mellow itinerary can have their pick of sandy or pebble beaches, search for gnome figures along a meandering trail, or explore the local outdoor art scene. Whether you’re traveling with young children, grandparents or a mix of both, the island makes it easy to build a weekend itinerary that suits everyone.
I spent the weekend on Camano Island with my family and discovered all the best places to stay, play and eat.
Build a fantastic itinerary with Camano Island’s top attractions
One of Camano Island’s biggest surprises is just how much there is to do for an island its size. Whether your family wants to spend the day hiking, paddling, beachcombing, watching for marine wildlife or soaring through the trees, you’ll find adventures that appeal to every generation and can be customized to a pace that works best for everyone. Most attractions are within a 15–20 minute drive of one another, making it easy to enjoy several activities without spending much time in the car.
Wander the beaches and trails
Cama Beach Historical State Park combines history, shoreline access and easy walking trails. Families can explore sections of the pebble beach or hike the short Bluff Trail for views of Saratoga Passage. Cama Beach experienced significant structural damage and had to permanently close the beloved Wooden Boats Center, the historic waterfront cabins, the park store and the lower restrooms in 2024. Since then, the state has been working hard to rebuild sections of the park and beach. A Discover Pass is required to enter the park and can be purchased at the Ranger Station.
For a completely different experience, head north to Iverson Spit Preserve. The short, whimsical Hobbit Trail delights younger visitors before opening onto one of the island’s most scenic sandy beaches. At low tide, the narrow spit stretches into Port Susan, creating endless opportunities for beachcombing, driftwood fort building, birdwatching and views of Mount Baker.
Another local favorite is English Boom Historical Park, located on the north end of the island, with a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk and short trail through a quiet estuary. It’s an ideal spot for a sunrise stroll or afternoon picnic.
Camano Island State Park features several miles of shaded trails, great for hiking or biking, that wind through the evergreens before emerging at scenic viewpoints overlooking Saratoga Passage and the Olympic Mountains. Keep an eye out for family-friendly Junior Ranger programs hosted on Saturday mornings through the summer. A Discover Pass is required for entry.
Families looking for a peaceful nature walk should also consider Barnum Point, where an easy forest trail system leads to dramatic bluff views over Port Susan. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, great blue herons and the occasional deer along the way.
Get on the water
Few experiences capture Camano better than exploring its shoreline by kayak or paddleboard. Camano Island Adventures makes it especially easy by delivering premium kayaks, paddleboards and Dogfish rowboats directly to vacation rentals or Camano Island State Park, allowing families to launch without hauling equipment from home. Tara and Kory Bartlett, the husband and wife duo behind Camano Island Adventures, provide exceptional service and all the accessory gear, including life jackets, paddles, waterproof phone cases and dry bags.
Visiting between July and Labor Day? Camano Island Adventures will also deliver all the supplies you need to participate in one of Camano’s favorite traditions: crabbing. Recreational crabbers can often catch Dungeness and Red Rock crab, making for a memorable family adventure. The Camano Island Chamber of Commerce offers current regulations, seasons and tips for first-time crabbers.
Choose your own outdoor adventure
As you cross the Camano Gateway Bridge, Freedom Park greets visitors and is a perfect first (or last!) stop during a visit to the island. It offers a large multi-age playground, open green space and a large sculpture garden.
Families with older children should put Canopy Tours NW near the top of their itinerary. One of only a handful of zip line canopy tours in Washington, the guided experience features six zip lines, a suspended log bridge and a 47-foot vertical descent from the final platform. Zippers must weigh between 65 and 280 pounds, and kids ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. In June and July, you can enjoy the U-pick lavender field on the same property at Kristofersen Farm.
Arrowhead Ranch is a destination in itself, offering activities for all ages. Keep an eye on its event calendar for makerspace workshops, archery lessons and a self-serve flower stand. Traveling with younger kids? Stop by The L.A.N.E. for a paved pump track (with a “bike barn” filled with wheeled toys for borrowing), nature art area, water play, a digging area and more. Aimed at the 5-and-younger crowd, this space is open daily and free to enjoy. Arrowhead Ranch is also home to what’s considered to be the world’s largest local soap box derby. Even if you can’t make the June weekend festivities, you can admire the state-of-the-art track and learn more about this iconic Camano tradition.
Explore local art
Camano’s creative spirit is woven throughout the island. Metzke Fine Art Gallery & Sculpture Park is one of its most memorable stops, with more than 150 sculptures tucked among peaceful woodland walking paths. Kids will enjoy searching for hidden pieces while adults appreciate the craftsmanship and tranquil setting.
Continue exploring by browsing roadside farm stands, artisan studios and local galleries scattered across the island. If you’re visiting in May, the celebrated Camano Island Studio Tour opens artists’ workspaces to the public, offering a unique chance to meet makers and discover one-of-a-kind pieces.
Make a weekend of it with these places to stay
Most visitors to Camano Island choose between camping or a private vacation rental, with just one traditional inn on the island.
Camano Island State Park
Campers will find one of the area’s best settings at Camano Island State Park, where forested campsites provide easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and sunset views over Saratoga Passage. Experienced local campers know that most sites have blackberry bushes, which can be a tasty benefit, but important to note for wandering little ones. Book ahead to snag one of the five on-site cabins or one of the 77 campsites and don’t miss the spectacular sunsets from the beach, with views of the Olympics.
Vacation rentals
For families, a vacation rental is often a good fit. Homes range from cozy beachfront cottages to larger properties that can accommodate multiple families. Local property management companies through Embrace Whidbey and Camano Islands offer a variety of homes, alongside familiar booking platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo.
Camano Island Inn
If you prefer a traditional lodging experience, Camano Island Inn is a nine-room guest house that overlooks the Saratoga Passage and offers private beach access, spa services, and rooms with features such as private decks or soaking tubs. While there isn’t an on-site restaurant, the island’s dining options are all still within a short drive.
If your travel style leans more toward traditional hotels, you’ll find the widest selection just across the bridge in nearby Stanwood, only a few minutes from the island.
Fuel the adventure at the best spots to eat
Camano’s food scene is relaxed, welcoming and full of local favorites.
Camano Commons Marketplace
This is more than a place to grab a bite. It is the island’s unofficial downtown and community gathering place, known to the locals as “Terry’s Corner.” Browse locally made gifts, sip coffee roasted just steps away, enjoy fresh pastries or ice cream, and relax in the grassy courtyard.
Local tip: Your favorite pastry order can be reserved 48 hours in advance through the online system. A little bird told us not to miss the strawberry rhubarb scones!
Location: 848 N. Sunrise Blvd., Ste. C, Camano
The Baked Cafe
House-baked buns, scratch-made breakfast sandwiches, juicy smashburgers and hand-cut fries have earned this café a loyal following. Tucked inside Camano Commons, it’s casual, affordable and perfect for families looking for an easy breakfast or lunch.
Location: 848 N. Sunrise Blvd. Bldg. C, Camano
Tapped Public House
A favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike, this spot serves elevated pub fare with a Pacific Northwest twist. The scratch-made menu features everything from hearty burgers and shareable appetizers to seasonal specials, alongside an impressive lineup of Washington craft beers and ciders. It’s an easy choice for lunch after exploring the island or a relaxed family dinner.
Location: 848 N. Sunrise Blvd., Camano
Blue Heron Kitchen & Bar
You can expect fresh Pacific Northwest flavors in a warm, welcoming setting. The menu includes thoughtfully prepared seafood, steaks, pasta and handcrafted cocktails, and there’s seasonal outdoor seating. It’s a great pick for date night while still offering plenty of family-friendly options.
Location: 170 E. Cross Island Rd., Camano
Cama Beach Cafe & Catering
Stop by this cozy cafe for views, located inside the historic lodge at Cama Beach State Park. Named one of Washington’s top 10 brunch restaurants by Best of Western Washington, the menu highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients alongside house-made cinnamon rolls, scones and other baked treats. Go for the waterfront setting, then linger for a hike or stroll along the beach. Reservations are recommended.
Location: 1880 W. Camano Dr., Camano
Elger Bay Food Mart Cafe and Restaurant
This local favorite hides a surprisingly satisfying café. Don’t let the name fool you! Stop in for a hearty breakfast before a day of exploring, grab a made-to-order burger or sandwich for lunch, or pick up snacks and picnic supplies before heading to the beach. It’s an unpretentious spot that rewards a curious traveler.
Location: 1992 S. Elger Bay Rd, Camano
Pub 282
Equal parts neighborhood pub and family hangout, Pub 282 specializes in handcrafted pizzas, burgers and a lively community atmosphere. Ample indoor and outdoor seating, occasional live music and local events add to the fun, making it a welcoming stop whether you’re watching the game, meeting friends or feeding hungry kids after a day outdoors.
Location: 370 N.E. Camano Dr. #6, Camano
Rockaway Bar & Grill
This longtime Camano Island staple offers classic comfort food in a laid-back setting overlooking the local golf course. The menu ranges from breakfast favorites to burgers, fish and chips, and seafood, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for groups with different tastes. It’s a reliable stop for a casual meal after exploring the island.
Location: 326 N.E. Camano Dr., Camano
Enjoy family travel without any friction
Camano Island proves that a memorable family getaway doesn’t require a packed schedule or hours in the car. Within just a few square miles, you’ll find welcoming restaurants, beaches worth exploring and outdoor adventures for every age. If you’re looking for a Pacific Northwest weekend that’s both easy to plan and rewarding to experience, Camano Island delivers.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Embrace Whidbey and Camano Islands, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
