The Most Beautiful Islands In Washington State

Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature, outdoor adventures or just a different pace of life, you won’t struggle to find it in Washington state. Culture Trip’s local insiders give their recommendations on the state’s most beautiful islands for your perfect getaway.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island, one of Washington’s most beautiful naturescapes, is small enough to visit all its top spots in one day. Aa short ride from Seattle and you’re among the giant cedars of Deception Pass State Park and the plentiful wildlife that make Whidbey their home. With so many outdoor activities, campers, hikers and watersports lovers all thoroughly love it here. Langley and Coupeville are charming towns to stop for lunch in. Recommended by local insider Grace Coleman

Known as the gem of the San Juans and the largest of the islands, Orcas is the perfect place to relax in nature, with miles of hiking trails through dense forest and fun activities including whale watching, kayaking and mountain biking. The island is also home to some excellent restaurants: pick and shuck your own oysters at Buck Bay Shellfish Farm. Recommended by local insider Grace Coleman

Camano Island

This beautiful spot has been attracting artists and makers to its shores for decades, and as a result, Camano is full of studios and galleries. After admiring some art, head off to enjoy the beautiful beaches, or to explore the forest and parks. Alternatively, combine both with a visit to the Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park. Camano Island State Park is the biggest outdoor space and can get a little busy. However, there are plenty of quieter forest trails and beaches where you can get away from the crowds. Recommended by local insider Eric Coleman

San Juan Island

This island, the second largest of an archipelago of the same name, comes complete with a resident herd of alpacas – but don’t worry, they’re friendly. There are vast lavender fields here to swoon in, and a family of orcas call the island’s shores home. There are plenty of good dining options available, especially if you head down to the bustling Friday Harbor. Recommended by local insider Eric Coleman

Lopez Island

Lopez Island is one of the few islands in the San Juan archipelago that you can visit, and life here is pleasantly slow, something its residents pride themselves on. Small bays dot the coast, and forests filled with wildlife surround the main town. Also, the birdwatching is second to none – keep an eye out for resident eagles. Lopez Island has mainly flat roads, so a bicycle is a great way to explore the landscape. Recommended by local insider Eric Coleman

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.