This guide highlights some of the most beautiful and accessible points on Island.
I’ve been living in Anacortes for the past 4 years and this is the exact itinerary that I use when friends or family come to visit.
Just change the starting location in the itinerary map link below, to start your adventure!
1. Calico Cupboard, Anacortes
2. Anacortes Farmers Market
3. Cape Sante Viewpoint
4. Mount Erie
4. Deception Pass State Park
5. Fort Casey Historical State Park
7. Coupeville
8. Clinton Ferry Terminal
Minimum Cost Breakdown
| Gas | $30 |
| Food per person | $30 |
| Annual Discover Pass Day Pass | $30 $10 |
| Shopping (Variable) | $20-50 |
| Ferry Ticket | $12 |
| Total | $152 |
The calculated total above represents the max amount for one person. you can make this trip cheaper by packing meals, limit spending and splitting costs with others
Budget Tip: Buying the annual pass pays off after 3 visits to state parks!
Additional information about the locations are embedded in the description below, and hyperlinked for your convenience.
“If you’re starting from the Seattle area drive north on I-5 to Mount Vernon. I suggest beginning your day with breakfast at Calico Cupboard in Anacortes. It’s a local chain and the Mount Vernon location showcases all the local farms they partner with, on a giant chalkboard.
Make sure you fuel up for the day as this itinerary skips over lunch!
After breakfast or brunch, explore the Anacortes Farmers Market two blocks over near the marina. During the summer, don’t miss the chance to buy a box of fresh local berries from the valley!
Then, head up to Cap Sante to enjoy views of the town, the Cascade Mountain Range, and the surrounding San Juan Islands.
The way you want to travel home should be decided here, it will determine the rest of your itinerary.
Either loop this trip and keep traveling south by taking the Clinton Ferry home or take Hwy 20 to drive back to the mainland.
If you plan to take Highway 20 back home, I recommend saving Mount Erie for last, at sunset. If you want to take the ferry for sunset, go to Mt Erie first, and then follow the rest of this itinerary. (Scroll to the end of this article to see specific directions for this stop and then come back).
The next stop is Deception Pass Bridge. I recommend parking on the north side of the bridge before crossing it, (if you choose), to get out to admire the bridge’s height. The southside parking lot on Whidbey Island can get crowded, especially on weekends in the summer. In the off season, there is plenty of parking.
After walking on the bridge, drive down to the park entrance and follow the signs to North Beach for a stunning view under the bridge. If you have time, drive over to West Beach for more breathtaking views of the sea, the San Juan Islands, and the Olympic Mountain Range on a clear day.
Your next stop is Fort Casey Historical State Park. It’s another great stop to check out the lighthouse and explore inside old military fortifications. The coastal views are beautiful and you might see a ferry go by.
Next, head to the charming town of Coupeville. It’s one of the oldest towns in Washington and has a lovely waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and the historic Coupeville Wharf.
I love stopping here for ice cream and buying goods from A Touch of Dutch .
Finally, wrap up your day at sunset by catching a ferry from Clinton to Mukilteo. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and is a relaxing way to end your trip. Check the ferry schedule here. Definitely get out of your vehicle and walk around the ship to take in the views.
Budget Tip: Pack a Sandwich for dinner to enjoy on the ferry (I always enjoy eating meals with a beautiful view).
Once you arrive in Mukilteo, you can easily make your way to go out for dinner or head home.
If you saved Mount Eire for last, drive to this location for sunset. Once you are the top, walk through the yellow posts and follow a small concrete path to get to the main south-side lookout point. You can walk to the right of the path, over rocks, to walk closer to the cliff edge if you dare.
If you’re hungry and want to catch dinner before driving home, Downtown Anacortes has a variety of cuisines available to cater to anyone’s craving. They’re all so good!
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