Part of the allure of Vashon Island is that it's not overrun with day-trippers. (And don't worry: We're not advocating that it should be.) But as long as you respectfully convert to Island Time, locals welcome you to explore its sandy beaches, woodsy trails, and galleries.
A popular bumper sticker proclaims KEEP VASHON WEIRD, revealing the heart of this artistic community, just a shout from Seattle.
Now the secret's out: Vashon is for visitors too. (Ideally those who ditch their cars and pedal the 5 miles from the ferry into town.)
GETTING THERE
Washington State Ferries ($4.30 round-trip to walk on, $1 bicycle surcharge; from $18.50 round-trip to drive on; 206/464-6400) run frequently from the Fauntleroy Terminal in West Seattle. If you drive, consider renting some wheels at Vashon Island Bicycles (closed Mon; $20 per day; 206/463-6225). Visit vashonchamber.com for more info.
GO
Vashon Farmers Market Pack your pannier with just-picked greens, island cheese, and local wine. INFO: 10-2 Sat year-round, 2-5 Wed Jul 16-Oct 15; Vashon Hwy. S.W. at Bank Rd. S.W.; 206/267-8146.
Point Robinson Park For beach walks and Mt. Rainier photo ops, bike 6 miles south of town to the eastern tip of Maury Island - attached to Vashon by a narrow road. INFO: Free lighthouse tours 12-4 Sun through late Sep and by appointment (206/463-6672); rent the Keepers' Quarters from $1,050 per week; 3705 S.W. Point Robinson Rd.; vashonparkdistrict.org or 206/463-9602.
SIPVashon Island Coffee Roasterie Rare Heirloom Coffee, slow-pressed. INFO: 19529 Vashon Hwy. S.W.; 206/463-9800.
Gusto Girls Toast summer evenings with spicy ginger martinis on the patio. INFO: $$; 17629 Vashon Hwy. S.W.; 206/463-6626.
EAT
The Monkey Tree Locals' fave for its bread-zucchini gnocchi and raspberry-rosemary iced tea. INFO: $; closed Wed; 17817 Vashon Hwy. S.W.; 206/463-4635.
SHOP
Heron's Nest Pottery, jewelry, and fabric art from many of the 300-plus artists who live on Vashon and Maury Islands (more info at vashonalliedarts.org). Closed Mon; 17600 Vashon Hwy. S.W.; 206/463-5252.
Kronos "Where did you get that?" gifts. 17610 Vashon Hwy. S.W.; 206/463-0061.
Giraffe Bright orange house packed with fair-trade food and recycled fashions like telephone-wire bangles. 9905 S.W. 174th St.; 206/463-1372.
STAY OVERNIGHT
Make your kids' night and sleep in a tipi or covered wagon at Vashon's AYH Ranch Hostel (from $20; 206/463-2592).
DON'T MISS ...
Birding with expert Ed Swan (tours by appointment; $35 per hour; 206/463-7976).
Hit the Vashon Island Strawberry Festival (Jul 12-13; vashonchamber.com 206/463-6217) for parades, crafts, sno-cones, and, of course, sweet berries.
