Camano Island is a peaceful little island located about an hour north of Seattle, near Whidbey Island. But if you’re wondering why you’ve never heard of the ferry that will take you there, that’s because there’s no boat required to reach it. From I-5, you simply take WA-532 until you reach it. This means that, while we highly recommend driving, you could walk to this island if you really wanted to.

Like all of Washington’s islands, Camano is an exceptionally beautiful place.

cy esp / Flickr It doesn’t get as much hype as the San Juan Islands or some of the others, but that only adds to its appeal. Here, you can enjoy a real life island experience.

Camano Island State Park is breathtaking.

Brian W / TripAdvisor You can take a nice, long beach walk, enjoy some boating or scuba diving, or take a hike on one of the nearby trails.

The nearby Cama Beach State Park features a restored 1930s fishing resort with year-round cabin rentals.

caringcustomer / TripAdvisor Staying here feels like going back to a simpler time.

To get a glimpse into the local culture, check out Matzke Art Gallery and Sculpture Park on Blanche Way.

elb0wman / TripAdvisor The park is playful, unique, and a must-see for art lovers.

If you’re spending the night, you’ll find all the provisions you need at the Camano Island Marketplace.

management / TripAdvisor Conveniently located at Terry’s Corner, you’ll find everything from groceries and gifts to freshly baked goods here.

You’ll also find plenty of fantastic places to eat on the island, like the Camano Island Waterfront Bistro.

nicolealia / TripAdvisor When the weather allows, the outdoor seating area here can’t be beat.

Camano Island really is an underrated gem.

Shawn Anderson / Flickr And the fact that it’s so easily accessible doesn’t hurt.

Have you ever been to Camano Island? If slower paced, underrated islands are what you prefer, make sure to check out Vashon Island as well.

cy esp / Flickr

It doesn’t get as much hype as the San Juan Islands or some of the others, but that only adds to its appeal. Here, you can enjoy a real life island experience.

Brian W / TripAdvisor

You can take a nice, long beach walk, enjoy some boating or scuba diving, or take a hike on one of the nearby trails.

caringcustomer / TripAdvisor

Staying here feels like going back to a simpler time.

elb0wman / TripAdvisor

The park is playful, unique, and a must-see for art lovers.

management / TripAdvisor

Conveniently located at Terry’s Corner, you’ll find everything from groceries and gifts to freshly baked goods here.

nicolealia / TripAdvisor

When the weather allows, the outdoor seating area here can’t be beat.

Shawn Anderson / Flickr

And the fact that it’s so easily accessible doesn’t hurt.

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