Whether you are looking for a short relaxing half day getaway, a weekend escape or a great vacation, Washington State Ferries is the ideal way to go. We serve some of Washington's most picturesque and historic destinations. Here are just a few good ideas on places to sail and things to see.

Washington State Ferries are the primary link to the San Juan Islands. Accessible out of Anacortes, WSF has five ports of call: San Juan Island, Lopez, Shaw, Orcas and Sidney B.C.

• LOPEZ ISLAND is the first ferry stop. If you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a no-sweat bike ride, the gentle terrain and bucolic lifestyle is for you! Lopez Village on Fisherman's Bay is the hub for shopping and dining. Since Lopez Village is 3 1/2 miles from the ferry, it's best to BYOB(bring your own bicycle). There are bikes for rent on the island.
• SHAW ISLAND, with a population under 150 on less than 5,000 acres, is the smallest of the four ferry-served islands. There are no facilities for visitors except a grocery store and small campground at South Beach.
• ORCAS ISLAND, with over 36,000 acres is the largest and considered the most spectacular. It has long been a favorite for generations of vacationers . The population is widely dispersed which adds to its feeling of privacy. Mount Constitution in Moran State Park offers panoramic views of all the archipelago, and is surrounded by miles of trails and sparkling lakes. Roads fan out from the business and social center of Eastsound village winding through valleys, forest and along lovely coves.
• SAN JUAN ISLAND is the busiest and most populated. Approximately two hours after departing Anacortes, the ferry arrives at the largest town and county seat of the islands, Friday Harbor. This port bustles all year with a myriad of pleasure and fishing boats. Since many of the island's amenities and facilities are within walking distance or available by public transportation from the ferry landing, San Juan is the best island to visit conveniently without bringing your car. Good public beach access is available here, especially at American Camp, San Juan National Historic Park.
• BRITISH COLUMBIA It's a beautiful journey aboard the Washington State Ferries through the San Juan Islands to Sidney B.C. on Vancouver Island. Butchart Gardens is a major attraction, with hundreds of trees and masses of colorful flowers and shrubs. And what's this? Cricket matches? Double-decker buses, the majestic Parliament building, English shops with woolens and china? Sounds like London? It's Victoria, a one-of-a-kind city, capital of British Columbia, with a blend of English and Canadian architecture, flavor and charm. The Provincial Museum is a "must-see."

PORT TOWNSEND-COUPEVILLE (KEYSTONE)

Port Townsend and Coupeville is the connection between Whidbey Island and the Olympic Peninsula. Port Townsend is a sample of old Victorian design and eclectic businesses with a boardwalk of accommodations and restaurants. Fort Worden and Fort Flagler neighbors the town with conference facilities and vacation housing, beaches and camping. On the Whidbey Island side, Fort Casey is right next to the dock with many campsites, picnic areas, a lighthouse and interpretive center.

MUKILTEO-CLINTON

Take the Mukilteo ferry to Clinton on Whidbey, the second longest island in the U.S. Drive north to Deception Pass and cross the bridge back to the mainland. The Deception Pass Bridge offers a bird's-eye view of boats navigating the famous tidal rapids which boil through the narrow channel. There's a state park at the pass with saltwater beaches, trails, and excellent picnic spots. While you're on the island, visit Coupeville, a town with a history. You'll see Indian war canoes, an old blockhouse, and pioneer homes dating back to 1890. Irresistible shops await you in the quaint towns of Coupeville and Langley.

SEATTLE-BAINBRIDGE ISLAND-EDMONDS 

The largest vessels in the fleet travel between Seattle and Bainbridge Island. The island offers a combination of rural charm and sophisticated amenities. Then drive north through Poulsbo and Port Gamble to Kingston; return on the ferry to the charming town of Edmonds. 

SEATTLE-BREMERTON 

Bremerton is the economic hub of the Kitsap Peninsula. This naval base town of 35,000 boasts one of the largest U.S. Navy repair yards in the world. It also has a new award winning designed ferry terminal linking the buses and ferries for seamless travel. 

FAUNTLEROY-VASHON ISLAND-SOUTHWORTH
 
You'll see farmland, lakes, and miles of beautiful waterfront on the way to Port Orchard. From here it's an easy drive south to Shelton and our ocean beaches. Or take the Fauntleroy ferry to the rural world of Vashon Island. Drive south down the island to Tahlequah and take the ferry to Point Defiance in Tacoma. Go to the Zoo! 

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