It’s been coined “the easy island” for its bridge access, but Camano has more to offer than its lack of ferry lines. Less than an hour from Bellingham, with pristine beaches, plenty of hiking options, and foodie-worthy eats, Camano checks the box for a cozy fall day trip.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Step Into Nature
Pack your Merrells—Camano is full of easy hikes and combable shores. The island is home to two state parks: Camano Island State Park, with year-round camping, and Cama Beach Historical State Park, home to the (permanently closed) historic Cama Beach cabins. Both offer miles of interconnecting trails and plenty of views. If you’re there on a weekend this fall or winter, don’t miss Cama Beach Cafe & Catering, serving up family style brunch overlooking Saratoga Passage. Iverson Spit Preserve boasts flat, sandy shores, beach fort-worthy driftwood, and a hike along the “Hobbit Trail” (yes, there will be gnomes). Barnum Point County Park impresses with its wide, forested trails and madrona-dotted beaches. English Boom offers an easy stroll and unmatched views along the site of an old log boom. Grab a pint at the small but popular Ale Spike Camano Island Brewing on the way out.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Eat Like an Islander
The Camano Commons is a social hub where you’ll find plenty of food options (as well as an adorable plant shop, library, and Camano Island Coffee Roasters). Try Primal Taco, The Baked Cafe (stellar burgers and breakfast sandwiches), or a local cider and loaded tots on the patio at Tapped Public House. The Camano Commons Marketplace is your go-to spot for espresso and some of the best baked goods around (the almond croissant is to die for). Head upstairs to the loft for additional indoor seating, surrounded by cozy gifts and local art. For a steak-and-cocktail sort of vibe, snag a spot on the deck at Blue Heron Kitchen & Bar. Down the road, Rockaway Bar & Grill is a local favorite for American pub food. Book a tee-time while you’re there; Rockaway sits on the island’s 18-hole golf course, Camaloch Golf Course.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Farm Stands: A Camano Must
Camano is dotted with farm stands—some are year-round, and most are honor-system. Black Dogs Harvest has goat milk soaps, local-maker crafts, plus apples and squash in the fall. Island Harvest Farm’s stand is open through November; autumn brings squash, dry beans, and pie pumpkins. Craving a treat? Shoebox Baking Company and Camano Cookies both fill their stands with sweet and savory goodies. Just be sure and check their business pages for days and times.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Historic Farms and Attractions
Historic Kristoferson Farm hosts experiences throughout the year, including U-cut lavender in summer, cider press and pumpkin launch in the fall, and holiday markets and wreath-making in the winter. Feeling adventurous? Book a ziplining tour through the property’s forests through their company, Canopy Tours NW.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Arrowhead Ranch offers year-round activities, from the annual soap box derby to its Makerspace workshops (woodworking, metalworking, and more). Take a date axe-throwing or make your own live-edge charcuterie board. Fall brings a cute pumpkin patch and cider press. Got littles? They’ll love the new L.A.N.E. (Little Arrowhead Nature Explore), a half-acre space designed for the under-5 crowd to explore nature through outdoor play.
Photograph by Allison Holm
Art lovers should check out the Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park, exhibiting over 75 works of art across the 10-acre property. Check out the indoor gallery for more inspiration.
Need more time to explore Camano? There are plenty of vacation rentals on the island where you can extend your stay.
