Discovering the Hidden Gem of Guemes Island
Nestled just across the water from Anacortes, Washington, Guemes Island offers a serene escape that is often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations like Whidbey Island or the San Juan Islands. This small island, with an area of just under 9 square miles and a population of less than 1,000 full-time residents, provides a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and quiet charm. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat without sacrificing access to amenities.
Why Visit Guemes Island?
One of the main attractions of Guemes Island is its simplicity. Visitors can arrive without any reservations or plans, hopping on a ferry and exploring at their own pace. The island is regularly serviced by ferries from Anacortes, making it an easy day trip or a perfect spot for a longer stay. Despite its remote location, Guemes is not entirely isolated. It has essential services such as a fire station, library, community hall, and a church. However, the nearest hospital is located in Anacortes, so visitors should be aware of this when planning their visit.
The island is also known for its incredible natural beauty and diverse recreational activities. From hiking and beachcombing to rockhounding and boating, there’s something for everyone. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore, but having a car or bike is recommended to cover the distance between attractions.
Exploring Guemes Island
After arriving on the island, a visit to the Guemes Island General Store is a must. Located just up the hill from the dock, this store offers groceries, picnic and camping supplies, gas, and even a beer garden where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink. For those looking for a more strenuous activity, a hike up Guemes Mountain is highly recommended. This moderate 2.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of nearby islands, the North Cascades Range, and even Canadian mountains.
Another notable attraction is Dog Woods, a 120-acre forest preserve with 3 miles of trails. This dog-friendly area is dedicated to the Samish Indian Nation and is named after the now-extinct Salish Woolly Dog. The Samish peoples, along with the Coastal Salish, consider Guemes Island part of their ancestral homelands. The Samish name for Guemes translates to “Lots of Dogs Island,” reflecting its historical significance.
For those who love the beach, Young’s Park offers stunning views of the mainland and, on clear days, Mount Baker. Sunset at the public beach on Edens Road is a popular spot to watch the sun dip behind the San Juan Islands. Kelly’s Point, another must-see beach, is a conservation area ideal for scenic walking and wildlife spotting, including orcas and eagles.
Getting to Guemes Island
Guemes Island is just a five- to 10-minute ferry ride across the Guemes Channel from Anacortes. The ferry runs regularly, approximately twice every hour, depending on the day. Anacortes, located on the tip of Fidalgo Island, is connected to both Whidbey Island and the mainland by road. The major Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is about a two-hour drive from Anacortes, although traffic can significantly affect travel time.
For those planning to stay overnight, the Guemes Island Resort is the best option. In recent years, several other rentals have also become available on the island. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during the summer months, which are the peak time to visit.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Guemes Island is located on the edge of the Olympic Rain Shadow, meaning it doesn’t receive as much rain as other parts of the Washington coast. However, fall and winter can be cooler and wetter. During these seasons, the island is less crowded, making it a great time for a peaceful visit. Keep in mind that ferry crossings are fewer during the off-season.
If you’re looking for another underrated island in Washington, Sucia Island, part of the San Juan Islands, is a stunning, tourist-free state marine park that’s worth exploring.
