The glimmer of Puget Sound. The lustrous Salish Sea. The glint of bluish water all around. This is what you get when you visit islands near Seattle. 

Life in Seattle is not complete without island hopping. If you live in the Emerald City; chances are you have been to most of the islands in and around Seattle. If you are new to the city or perhaps simply visiting it as a tourist or on business; it is a good idea to explore one or more (as many you can) islands near Seattle. Each offers distinct views, attractions, and avenues for fun outdoor activities. 

Bainbridge Island

Due to its vicinity to Seattle, you can hop, skip, and jump (OK not really but kind of!) to the Bainbridge Island. Ferries to the island are available from downtown Seattle. See the Seattle skyline and the waterfront areas pass by; making it a great start to the trip. Hop down from the ferry and simply start walking around the island; soaking in its beauty. There are excellent wineries here along with a delectable culinary scene. A comforting breakfast at the Streamliner Diner will set you up for the day. But why stop when you can have your pick of the cuisine and delicacies here. 

Go to Ba Sa for Vietnamese food and Agate for romantic dinners. Voujan is for Indian and other Asian foods. Caffe Curva and Coppice Café are for baked goods. Blackbird Bakery is another favorite here. It closes by 4 PM. So, head there as soon as you arrive on Bainbridge! Perhaps you would like to go there for second helpings before your day trip is over. Try the Mind, Body & Soul Scones while you are there. 

Bainbridge is one of the best islands near Seattle for weekend trips as well. You don’t need a ton of planning to visit it. Just pack the basics or not (as you can find all the essentials on the island). 

Places to see in Bainbridge Island are Bloedel Reserve, Fay Bainbridge State Park, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) etc.

Take a healing walk in The Grand Forest. Enjoy fresh produce at the Heyday Farm. Bike around Fort Ward Park. 

Boating, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding are available here. Bainbridge is the best island to visit in Washington State in terms of facilities, accessibility, and natural beauty. 

Blake Island

Blake Island (Blake Island Marine State Park) is one of the best islands near Seattle for nature lovers. Ferries to the island are available from Seattle Central Waterfront. The coastline here stretches up to five miles. You can indulge in kayaking, camping, and other outdoor activities here. Enjoy views of Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and even the Seattle skyline from this island. This is one of the best islands near Seattle for some quiet time while still indulging in outdoor activities. If you desire to see the best sunsets in the region then do not miss visiting Blake Island near Seattle. 

Longhouse Café is a famous eatery on Blake Island. But options for meals are limited here. So, it is best to pack some snacks when you visit this island.

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is part of San Juan group of Islands. There are more than 170 islands in this group and San Juan is the biggest one of them all. You can reach the island from Seattle by a ferry ride and within a few hours too. Friday Harbor is the island’s main town. It has all the amenities available for tourists. 

Attractions here include Lime Kiln Point State Park, which is perfect for watching whales go about the ocean. You can spend hours here by indulging in hiking, eating, and simply relaxing and of course waiting for the whales to appear.

On this island, you may also spot porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and more wonders. Enjoy boating and kayaking here or explore the bookstores and art museums on the island. Prepare to get delighted with many lighthouses here. Enjoy nature walks at the island parks. Even take ferries to other nearby islands in the group. 

Are there islands near Seattle?

Yes, there are many big and small islands near Seattle. Bainbridge is the nearest island from the city. Blake Island, Foster Island, Whidbey Island, and San Juan Islands are other beautiful islands around Seattle. 

How long is the ferry ride from Seattle to San Juan Islands?

The ferry ride from Seattle to San Juan Islands may take around 3 to 4 hours. 

Do you need a car on Bainbridge Island?

Not really; you can explore the island easily without a car. It is more fun to see the island on foot or by biking around the place. 

If you are visiting Seattle and now wish to see one of these islands; book last-minute flights via Indian Eagle flight-booking services (in case you will need to cancel your current booking to extend your stay). Or you can go to the Indian Eagle website and book cheap flights to USA. For instance, flights from Seattle to Hyderabad are available all through the year and that too at low prices. 

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