901 6th Street, Anacortes, WA 98221 P: 360-424-3251 © Skagit Publishing 2026 All rights reserved.
EDITOR: Isabella Loy | news@goanacortes.com
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Beautiful Fidalgo Island and its one city, Anacortes, are the gateway to the San Juans.
The island features spectacular views from its rocky shorelines to its own little mountain – Mount Erie. The mountain stands at 1,273 feet with impressive views of the city of Anacortes and the water below.
Other views include snow-capped mountains, beaches, forest lands and some of the most incredible sunsets you’ll ever see. Photographers love it here.
You can see nearly all of it from your car, but we hope you’ll explore a
bit by foot. Nature is easily accessible, with numerous trails through the city-owned forest lands. Some trails are on level, paved paths and others go through hilly woods. Wildlife abounds, from blue herons and eagles to deer. Orca whales often swim in nearby waters and have occasionally been spotted from the shore.
Anacortes is home to about 17,000 residents. It’s an eclectic little city featuring 3,000 acres of protected forest lands, a walkable downtown, a large art and music scene and a working waterfront with marinas and boat-builders. In fact, boats are a
big deal here – for both business and recreation. See nature from the water on a local tour at Bowman Bay. If you prefer to stay on land, visit the beach at Seafarer’s Memorial Park or walk the loop at Washington Park.
For fans of outdoor recreation, there is camping at Washington Park, which offers fast access to forest trails, beaches and the Puget Sound.
Head into downtown Anacortes for numerous shopping and dining options, most of which are small, locally owned businesses. Welcome!
Anacortes offers festivals and events full of fun for all interests and age groups.
Our online calendar, at goskagit.com, offers a look at all upcoming events.
All events are subject to change, and some had not yet been scheduled when Explore Anacortes was printed, so check out the organizer’s website or social media pages for details.
Picnic at Seafarers’ Memorial Park and watch boats coming in and out of Cap Sante Marina, or head to Causland Memorial Park, a few blocks west of downtown.
Drive to the top of Mount Erie, a lookout about 20 minutes from downtown in the center of the island.
Explore the Anacortes Community Forest Lands: 2,800 acres with a trail system for hikers and bicyclists. There are also trails along the waterfront, including the Tommy Thompson and Guemes Channel trails.
See the town from above via the Cap Sante Viewpoint, just blocks from the walkable downtown business district.
Dine at one of the many local spots Anacortes has to offer and enjoy experiences from waterfront views to downtown nightlife.
The First Friday Art Walk is held on the first Friday of each month in downtown Anacortes from 6 to 9 p.m. Learn more at AnacortesArt.com
The Rockfish Grill hosts live music on a regular basis. See a calendar of events at anacortesrockfish.com.
The Book of Will: The Book of Will by Lauren Gunderson runs from Feb. 6 to Feb. 28 at Anacortes Community Theatre. Directed by Diana Farnsworth. Tickets: acttheatre.com
Anacortes Early Music presents “Spurious: Music you know...”: Feb. 27 at the Croatian Cultural Center.
An evening of Baroque music full of surprises. Tickets are $30 cash or check at the door.
Winter Bird Walk with Salish Sea School: Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
(The Historic 1906 Howard/Mayer Street Clock)
Then come into a store filled with unique jewelry, extraordinary gemstones, the largest selection of crystal and dinnerware in the Northwest, an Art Gallery, and unexpected treasures.
Hours 10:30am - 5:00pm, Tuesday - Saturday We encourage you to work with us by appointment for custom design, complex jewelry repairs, appraisal questions or personalized shopping experiences.
7th & Commercial in Anacortes Washington burtonjewelers.com • 360-293-6469 • info@burtonjewelers.com
Perfect for birders of all experiences and ages, attendees will explore the Guemes Channel Trail in Anacortes while learning birding techniques, bird identifications and the importance of marine and coastal habitats for winter bird species. Learn more and register at thesalishseaschool.org
Anacortes UNCORKED: March 7 from 3-6 p.m. at the Depot Center. Attendees can enjoy wine, food, and hors d’oeuvres from local favorites. A $55 general admission tickets include wine tasting, a charcuterie box courtesy of Blackbird Wine & Charcuterie, oysters courtesy of Pop-Up Oyster Bar Co., on-site Wine sales and a commemorative wine glass. Register at anacortes.org.
Celebrating Her: March 7 at 5-8 p.m. at the Croatian Cultural Center. Celebrating Her is dedicated to fostering solidarity among women of all ages and backgrounds and aligns with International Women’s Day. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
County
and Splash Polar
March 14 at 11 a.m. at
hit the pavement in the Polar Plunge Anacortes 5K Walk & Run, to support athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Register at polarplungewa.com.
Spirit of Hope fundraiser: March 19 from 5-8 p.m. at Swinomish Casino. Spirit of Hope is Community Action of Skagit County’ss annual fundraising event. Guests enjoy dinner, drinks, games and a program featuring stories from Community Action staff and clients whose lives have been transformed. Learn more at communityactionskagit.org/spirit-ofhope.
Equinox Mindfulness and Beach Clean Up: March 20 from 4-6 p.m. at Sunset Beach. Celebrate the beginning of spring with the Salish Sea School, community and the sea in this mindfulness walk and beach clean-up. Learn more and RSVP at thesalishseaschool.org.
The Wizard of Cause: March 28 at 6 p.m. at Skyline Clubhouse. Join the Fidalgo Island Rotary for an evening filled with magic, generosity and fun as attendees come together to support service projects close to home and around the world. The night will feature a live and silent auction, games of chance, prizes and a catered dinner. Tickets available at fidalgorotary.org
Anacortes Nautical Treasure Hunt: Starting April 3 through April 12, treasure hunters can set out to explore the island in search of prize balls hidden throughout Anacortes. If a treasure hunter finds a prize ball, they can exchange it for an artist-created nautical treasure at a number of retail partners. Every day of the treasure hunt, there will be at least 10 plastic prize balls hidden in parks and businesses in Anacortes. Learn more: anacortesartsfestival.com
Music & Memories Dinner and Auction: April 11 at 5:30 p.m. at Swinomish Casino. Join the nonprofit Skagit Adult Day Program for its 13th Annual dinner and auction as it raises money and awareness. The program provides services to adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s and offers respite to their families. Tickets: skagitadultdayprogram.org.
Skagit Habitat for Humanity Raise the Roof Gala: April 18 at 5 p.m. at Swinomish Casino. Raise the Roof is Skagit Habitat for Humanity’s annual fundraiser, supporting more affordable homeownership opportunities for low-income Skagit families in need. The event will have a Venetiancarnival-inspired celebration and will include dinner, drinks, live and silent auctions, raffle prizes and more. Tickets can be purchased at skagithabitat.com
and 5K Fun
Park. Each year, participants raise funds and take the plunge, or
Luminary Light Parade: At 8 p.m. April 24, the Luminary Light Parade will dazzle downtown. Come see the colorful paper lanterns and be enchanted by birds, sea creatures, mammals, stars and flowers.
Procession of the Species: At 5 p.m. on April 25, the Procession of the Species will wind up and down Commercial Avenue. Community members share their love for flora and fauna through handmade costumes seeking to inspire learning, appreciation and protection of the natural world.
Anacortes Walk Fest: May 1-May 4 at carious trailheads and meeting points. This inaugural four-day event features more than 25 guided outings, all led by knowledgeable locals who know the area’s best forest paths, wildflower views, scenic overlooks and hidden history. Learn more at anacorteswalkfest.com.
Anacortes Charm Walk: May 2-May 16 in downtown Anacortes. Discover the charm of downtown Anacortes while collecting unique charms from local businesses to create your own spring nautical charm bracelet. Learn more at anacortes.org
James Island Wildflower & Low Tide Tour: May 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Skyline Marina to James Island. Experience the wonders of the intertidal zone and spring wildflowers while supporting marine conservation during a -3.3 low tide, where you’ll discover the creatures that thrive in this unique habitat. Learn more at thesalishseaschool.org
Anacortes Boat and Yacht Show: May 14-May 16 at Cap Sante Marina. The show features new and brokerage boats of all sizes from your favorite brands, dealers, brokers and exhibitors, as well as seminars from experts and evening activities. Learn more at anacortesboatandyachtshow.com.
Anacortes Waterfront Festival: The Quick and Dirty Boat Building competition, now in its 17th year, is just one part of the long-running waterfront festival, which kicks off its 35th year in June. Date to be announced – keep a lookout on Facebook at facebook.com/AnacortesWFF.
Unconventional Runway Show: Wearable art pieces hit the runway during the the Anacortes Senior Activity Center Foundation’s popular fundraiser. Check asacfoundationanacortes.org for event details as the fundraiser approaches.
Anacortes Pride Parade and Celebration: This year’s theme is “Stronger Together.” The parade generally starts downtown, followed by a celebration. Visit anacortespride.org for details.
Sucia Island Low Tide Ecotour: June 15, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Skyline Marina to Sucia Island. Join the Salish Sea School on a small group tour of Sucia Island State Park and discover its tidepools, fossils and geological formations.
Independence Day Parade: July 4 in downtown Anacortes. The event featurs classic cars and military vehicles, community organizations and political candidates, first responders and local businesses. Attendees also have the opportunity to pose for the annual town photo.
Shipwreck Festival: July 18. The event technically starts at 8 a.m., but there are usually some businesses and booths that get started right at first light, just like the old time fishermen used to. This event features more than 200 vendors set up in booths along Commercial Avenue; each booth brings something new and eclectic. Learn more: fidalgorotary.org
Anacortes Arts Festival: July 31-Aug. 2 in downtown Anacortes. The Anacortes Arts Festival is in its 65th year, hosting more than 220 booth artisans, producing an acclaimed fine art show, and averaging around 80,000 visitors. Learn more at anacortesartsfestival.com
Eagle Cliff Hike - Cypress Island: July 28, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Skyline Marina to Cypress Island. Lace up your boots for a guided hike to the top of Cypress Island’s Eagle Cliff — one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Salish Sea. Along the way, the Salish Sea School’s naturalist guides will share stories of the island’s unique ecology and create space to slow down and connect with nature. Learn more at thesalishseaschool.org
Anacortes Cancer Walk: Held in late August to honor the memory of loved ones who have died of cancer. During the past 10 years, the Anacortes Cancer Walk has raised $250,000
— all of which has been donated to local cancer patients.
Adult Whale Camp: Aug. 28-29. Whale Camp is a new summer camp for adults. This two-day camp includes two days on the water learning about the killer whales of this region. Each day will include multiple lessons and an island stop. Learn more at thesalishseaschool.org
42nd Oyster Run: On the fourth Sunday each September, Anacortes hosts an estimated 10,000 bikers during the annual Oyster Run, making it the largest motorcycle run in the Pacific Northwest. The one-day event, rain or shine, includes vendors, music, oysters and parking for thousands of motorcycles. Learn more at oysterrun.org
of topics — from health and medical services to finances, housing, food and recreational opportunities.
Haunted Forest: Scheduled for late October. Wind your way through the Haunted Forest at Washington Park. Your journey will be filled with suspense, dark corners and creatures lurking through the trees. Starting at 6 p.m., the sun goes down and the fear is cranked up. This walk is recommended for adults and older children. This is a night trail walk so it is required to bring a flashlight or headlamp. Costumes are encouraged.
Trick or Treat Downtown: Oct. 31 on Commercial Avenue in downtown Anacortes, local businesses will provide trick or treating for local children at downtown shops.
Elves Night Out: Nov. 21 at 4-8 p.m. at the Majestic Inn ballroom. A free gift bag will be given to the first 400 guests at the Majestic. Holiday drinks, small plates and festive nibbles will be available in downtown restaurants. Wear your elf costume! Learn more at downtownanacortesalliance.org.
Anacortes Veterans Day events: Typically held the weekend before Veterans Day at Causland Memorial Park. This annual event, which began in 2024, honors those who served in the U.S. Military.
Anacortes in 2025 after a seven-year hiatus. The fair serves as a one-stop shop for information on a wide range
Lighted Boat Parade: Held in December, this event sees boats on the parade route start at Cap Sante Marina, circle the Guemes Channel and then take the Anacortes waterfront back to the start. Viewing points for the parade include Seafarer’s Memorial Park, Rotary Park, Amphitheater, Secret Cove, Curtis Wharf, Kiwanis Park, Guemes Trail, Ship Harbor Blvd & L on Edwards Way, Ship Harbor Interpretive Reserve and Guemes Island General Store.
Winter Solstice Luminaria Walk: Dec. 21 at Washington Park. Participants, young and old, parade through the park with their crafty creations glowing in the dark — symbols of their commitment to the survival of endangered southern resident killer whales. Learn more at thesalishseaschool.org.
Anacortes Lions Club’s Walk With Santa Parade: Held in early December, this event sees Santa and Mrs. Claus on display in downtown Anacortes to celebrate the Christmas spirit.
Anacortes Santa Run: Held in early December, the Anacortes Santa Run transforms Seafarers Memorial Park into a sea of red and white as hundreds of runners and walkers in full Santa suits kicked off a full day of festivities on the waterfront.
Bouquets of flowers, cheese, vegetables fresh from the farm and homemade creations are available at the Anacortes Farmers Market.
Live music, food vendors and a space to sit down and enjoy the sunshine are also part of the experience.
The market features different musicians throughout the summer. It opens from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday from May to October. An Opening Day Celebration provides a little extra fun on that first market of May.
The winter market is the second Saturday of each month from October to May, and a holiday market is held in November.
The open-air market is held next to the Depot Arts Center at 611 R Avenue. anacortesfarmersmarket.org.
What is there to see on Fidalgo Island? So much. Here are some highlights:
Cap Sante provides a grand scenic overlook of Anacortes as well as Mount Baker, March point, Guemes Island and the waters of the San Juans. It’s just minutes from downtown. A hike from the top can lead visitors to an amphitheater carved into the side of the island.
Directions: From downtown, take Fourth Street east and take a right on V Avenue, which leads to the park at the top. To hike up, park near the Anacortes Yacht Club and follow the trail.
Sunset Beach at Washington park on the northwest end of the island has an open beach looking out on Rosario Strait. Nearby
is Loop Road, which wraps around the park’s peninsula and offers views of Rosario Strait, Burrows Bay and Island, and the south end of Fidalgo Island. When open to vehicle traffic, the loop has parking spots along the way with picnic tables at Green Point and a landmark madrona tree and views of the Skyline neighborhood at Fidalgo Head.
Directions: Take the 15-minute journey to the city-owned park by following 12th Street west. The name of the road changes to Oakes along the way but leads to the park. Take the right fork near the beach area.
Mount Erie provides views from the center of Fidalgo Island. On a clear day, most of the island can be seen, along with parts of Whidbey Island to the south, the North Cascade mountains to the east and other San Juan islands to the west.
Directions: Head south on Commercial Avenue, turn right on 32nd Street and left on H Avenue. The road turns into Heart Lake Road. Go past the lake and turn left onto Ray Auld Drive to Erie Mountain Drive. The best viewpoint is just beyond the access to the huge cell tower at the top.
Deception Pass State park extends across both Fidalgo and Whidbey islands. Scenic spots in the state park include Pass Lake, Rosario Beach and Bowman Bay. The iconic photo spots are at pullouts along Highway 20 at the two Deception Pass bridges. Walk out over the bridges to take in the views.
Directions: Follow Highway 20 to Oak Harbor. A state Discover Pass (daily option is available) is needed to park on the Whidbey side of the bridge.
The Anacortes Community Forest Lands and city parks offer free access to miles of trails, green spaces and beaches.
The city-owned Anacortes Community Forest Lands features forest lands, meadows, wetlands, Mount Erie and Sugarloaf Mountain, as well as Cranberry, Whistle and Heart lakes.
It has 50 miles of trails to accommodate hikers, bicyclists and horse riders, though not all trails allow all modes of transportation. Some allow two-wheeled motorcycles.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Find more information at friendsoftheacfl.org
The Anacortes Community Forest Lands (ACFL) comprise approximately 2800 acres at the heart of Fidalgo Island, entirely within the city limits of Anacortes. More information about the City, the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Advisory Board can be found at anacorteswa. gov
Trail maps of the ACFL are published by the Anacortes Parks & Recreation Department. In addition to topographical features and trails, the maps include a brief history of the ACFL, trail regulations, and infor-
mation about how you can help protect this invaluable community treasure. Download trail maps from friendsoftheacfl.org/ maps. Maps are on sale for $10 each at the following locations in Anacortes:
ANACORTES PARKS & RECREATION DEPT.
904 6th Street
360-293-1918
ANACORTES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Visitor Information Center
819 Commercial Avenue
360-293-3832
FRIENDS OF THE FOREST OFFICE
611 R Avenue 360-293-3725
WATERMARK BOOK COMPANY
612 Commercial Avenue
360-293-4277
Four miles south of Anacortes, just west of Highway SR-20. Fishing opportunities include stocked Rainbow Trout, Coastal Cutthroat Trout, and Channel Catfish and resident Largemouth Bass and Yellow Perch. Resident Bluegill, Black Crappie, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, and Bullhead Catfish are also present. The WDFW access area has a boat launch and toilet. Two-pole fishing is allowed
Whistle Lake is a small lake located within city limits in Anacortes Community Forest Lands southeast of central Anacortes, Washington. Though not directly accessible by vehicle, Whistle Lake attracts thousands of visitors each year. A 37-acre lake surrounded by forest & cliffs popular for hiking, swimming & fishing.
Two miles south of Anacortes, along the west side of Heart Lake Road. Most anglers visit Heart in pursuit of abundant stocked Rainbow Trout, but resident Largemouth Bass can also be caught. This lake in Skagit County is managed with a seasonal fishing closure. Two-pole fishing is allowed
Little Cranberry Lake is located within Anacortes Community Forest Lands on Fidalgo Island in the northwestern corner of the U.S. state of Washington. The lake is deepened by a dam on the northern end which was constructed in the 1930s.
This lake is three miles south of Anacortes, just west of Heart Lake Road and north of Rosario Road. Most anglers visit Erie to catch abundant stocked Rainbow Trout, but residen Largemouth Bass and Yellow Perch can also be caught. This lake in Skagit County is managed with a seasonal fishing closure. It has a WDFW access with boat launch and toilet on the west side and a resort at the south end. Two-pole fishing is allowed
Mud Lake is a lake in Skagit, Washington. Mud Lake is situated nearby to the hamlets Rosario Beach and Dewey.
Trafton Lake is in Skagit, Washington. Trafton Lake is situated nearby to the neighborhoods Deception Pass Estates and Deception Pass Shores.
Six miles south of Anacortes, along the northwest side of Highway SR-20. This trophy fly-fishing only, catch-and-release-only lake has a boat launch, but use of motors is prohibited. Fishing opportunities include stocked Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout averaging 15 inches with some up to 28 inches. Two-pole fishing is allowed. Special fishing restrictions: Fly fishing only for this lake.
28TH STREET PLAYGROUND
28th Street and Q Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
28th Street Playground is a half-acre playground on “Q” Avenue. There is children’s play equipment on the site.
ACE OF HEARTS ROTARY PARK
38th Street and H Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
The off leash dog areas, one for large dogs and one for small dogs, has opened. The fenced dog areas include water for the pets, pet waste disposal bags and portable restrooms.
The City of Anacortes Parks Department, Anacortes Rotary Club and the Anacortes Little League worked together to develop a new baseball field. Ace of Hearts Rotary Park also includes wetland improvements, parking lot, trails, and a creek.
ALICE PARCHMAN NEWLAND PARK
R Avenue between 32nd and 22nd Streets
Anacortes, WA 98221
Alice Parchman Newland Park is a 10 acre linear park and street median developed along the R Avenue access road from Highway 20 into Anacortes waterfront industries and recreation areas. The south end contains the Smith sculpture, and the north end of the median widens to accommodate the Ben Root Skate Park. There is a view of Fidalgo Bay.
BEN ROOT SKATE PARK
2313 R Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Ben Root Skate Park is a 7,500 square foot concrete skate park with parking, drinking fountain, lights, seating and restroom nearby. The Ben Root Skate Park is located within
Alice Parchman Newland Park and offers a view of Fidalgo Bay. Adjacent to the park is a trailhead for the Tommy Thompson Parkway.
CAP SANTE PARK
1000 W Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Cap Sante Park is a 37 acre forested promontory at the eastern edge of Anacortes. It is primarily a viewpoint overlooking the marina, the City of Anacortes, March Point, Fidalgo Bay and the Cascades. A remnant of an amphitheater is located on the east bank of the park.
CAUSLAND MEMORIAL PARK
710 N Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Causland Memorial Park was built in the 1920s by John Baptiste LePage and is on the National Register of Historic Places. A portion of the park is dedicated to Anacortes
veterans from World War I to the Vietnam War.
CLEARIDGE PARK
1900 Block of Blakely
Anacortes, WA 98221
Clearidge Park is a .8 acre partially developed park near the Anacortes Airport with two tennis courts and a basketball court. It was given to the City as part of the subdivision process as homes were developed in the west side of Anacortes.
DISC GOLF COURSE AT ROTARY PARK
701 T Ave
Anacortes, WA 98221
The city has a nine-hole disc golf course at Rotary Park. View a course map anacorteswa.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/4713/ Rotary-Park-Disc-Golf-Course-PDF
The disc golf course was made possible with support from the Anacortes Parks Foundation, the City of Anacortes, and the Rotary Club. Please be mindful of other park users, packout all of your trash, and respect the neighboring residences.
Edwards Way Cul-de-sac
Anacortes, WA 98221
This walking/biking path runs along the waterfront. The trail access point at Edwards Way continues east towards Anacortes for approximately 1 mile. Community efforts continue to link the trail from Washington Park to the Thompson Trail.
JOHN AND DORIS TURSI PARK
2200 Pennsylvania Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
John and Doris Tursi Park is a newly developed neighborhood park with play equipment, a zip line and picnic tables.
KIWANIS WATERFRONT PARK
1708 6th Street
Anacortes, WA 98221
Kiwanis Waterfront Park is 2 acres of developed parkland located on the north Anacortes shoreline. There are picnic tables, benches, pathways, overlook, beach access and parking to help enjoy the views of the Guemes Channel, Guemes Island, boat traffic and ferry traffic.
MT. ERIE
Ray Auld Drive and Heart Lake Road
Anacortes, WA 98221
Mt. Erie is a 160 acre Park. It includes the summit of Mt. Erie, the highest point of
Fidalgo Island and is part of the former Anacortes watershed. There is a small parking area and a road to the top of Mt. Erie. There are trails in the surrounding City portions of the Community Forest Lands and various lookouts offering breathtaking vistas.
OFF LEASH DOG PARK
38th and H Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Off Leash Dog Park is fully enclosed and dog waste disposal bags are available. Portable restrooms are on-site for the owner’s as well. Dogs must have current vaccinations and a license. This site contains a multi-use playfield and dog park. This area has been a joint effort between the City of Anacortes and the Fidalgo Islanders for Dogs Off-leash (FIDO).
PICKETT POCKET PARK
2100 Commercial Ave
Anacortes, WA 98221
Pickett Pocket Park is 16 feet wide and 150 feet long with solar lighting for a comfortable public gathering place.
Q’ELECH’ÍLHCH PARK (IRONWOOD VILLAGE)
2nd Street and N Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Q’elech’ílhch Park (Ironwood Village) was formerly named N Avenue Park. It is 0.4 acres of undeveloped street-end park land with views to Guemes channel. (Phonetic pronunciation is: kuh lutch eeth ch)
ROADSIDE PARK
Jackson Avenue and Oakes Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Roadside Park Roadside park is a .3 acre street end with views of Guemes Channel.
ROTARY PARK
701 T Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
Rotary Park is a 1.5 acre linear park located on the north and east edge of the Cap Sante Boat Haven at the base of Cap Sante. Rotary Park has a paved pedestrian trail out to the Cap Sante breakwater, picnic tables and a shelter. Parking is available at the start of the trail.
SHIP HARBOR INTERPRETIVE PRESERVE
Edwards Way
Anacortes, WA 98221
SHIP (Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve) is located between the Washington State
Ferry terminal on the west and residential developments near the cul de sac at Edwards Way on the east.
Amenities
In addition to the 25 acres of freshwater wetlands, there are also five acres of upland habitat and 2,000 fee of sandy beach and subtidal ellgrass beds. There is a defined trail system that is protective of particularly sensitive areas and also provides environmental education about the role and significance of the beach and wetlands.
SHUGARTS PLAYGROUND
10th Street and N Street
Anacortes, WA 98221
Shugarts Playground is a .5 acre playground with picnic tables adjacent to the Public Library.
STORVIK PARK
1110 32nd Street
Anacortes, WA 98221
Storvik Park is a park of 8.7 acres. It has picnic tables, a reservable picnic shelter (call 360-293-1918 for availability), restrooms, one little league game field which also serves as a multi-purpose youth soccer field and two basketball courts. Storvik also has chil-
dren’s play equipment, and is used regularly as a destination park by walkers.
STORVIK PARK SPRAY PAD
1110 32nd Street
Anacortes, WA 98221
360-293-1918
Hours: 11am - 6pm every day, typically Memorial Day-Labor Day.
TOMMY THOMPSON PARKWAY
22nd Street and R Avenue
30th and U Avenue
Tommy Thompson Parkway consists of approximately 3.3 miles of paved trail for pedestrians and bicyclists between 11th Street and across the train trestle to March Point Road.
1915 13th Street
Anacortes, WA 98221
This park has been largely a volunteer effort. There are approximately 24 acres of developable space, 15 acres of which are leased from the school district and are developed with three ball fields and a soccer field.
WASHINGTON PARK
6300 Sunset Avenue
Anacortes, WA 98221
360-293-1918
220 acre Washington Park juts into Rosario Strait on the western edge of Anacortes, offering territorial views.
The park has a day use area and overnight camping facilities. In the campground there are 68 campsites for RVs and tents, and a restroom with showers. There is also a reservable group tenting site for small groups of 30 (call 360-293-1918 for more information).
At Sunset Beach, on the north shore, there is a boat launch, rest rooms, reservable picnic shelter (call 360-293-1918 for more information), playground equipment and open play area.
Picnic sites and car pullouts provide beach access along Green Point, the west shoreline. A 2.3 mile loop road provides access to several shoreline areas and a viewpoint of Burrows Bay. The loop road is used by cars, joggers, bicyclists and walkers.
For information about any park amenities, please call 360-293-1918.
Cap Sante Marina, 1019 Q Ave., is owned and operated by the Port of Anacortes. It is a Customs port-of-entry on the west side of Fidalgo Bay within walking distance to downtown stores and restaurants. The marina provides permanent and transient moorage. Floats have power and water. It features restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, fuel dock, pump-out stations, boat launch and wi-fi. portofanacortes.com/marina. 360293-0694
Skyline Marine Center, 2011 Skyline Way, at Flounder Bay on Fidalgo Island is a full-service marina with slips up to 100 feet. Features guest moorage, a travel lift, fuel, pump-out services, shower and laundry facilities. skylinemarinecenter.com 360-293-5134
Anacortes Kayak Tours offers tours and guides, including everything from an hour or two to multiple days. Give us a call at 360-588-1117 or toll free, 800-992-1801. anacorteskayaktours.com.
Blue Otter Outfitters offers equipment rentals of kayaks, paddleboards and more. Stand Up Paddle Boards & Recreational Sit-
On-Top Kayaks - No Experience is Necessary. Renting Sea Kayaks - Experience is Necessary. blueotter.com
Fidalgo Paddlesports. Fidalgo Paddlesports is a family-owned sea kayak and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) instructional school. fidalgopaddlesports.com.
By: Megan MacGregor and Trevor Derie
Surrounded by the inland waters of the Salish Sea, Anacortes is home to an incredible range of marine wildlife. Plenty of seals, sea lions and porpoises call Washington home, as well as an array of seabirds like the popular Tufted Puffin. Along with these animals, many species of whales inhabit these waters, whether it be the larger humpback and gray whales, the elusive minke whales, or the famous killer whales, also known as orca.
The history of whale watching in the San Juan Islands can be attributed to frequent sightings of killer whales, which are separated into groups called ecotypes. An ecotype is a genetically distinct population within a species which has developed unique traits and behaviors. Of the ten known orca ecotypes worldwide, two regularly visit the waters around Anacortes: Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) and Transient, or Bigg’s, Killer Whales. While they share the same sea, they differ dramatically in diet, behavior, and culture: to the point where they do not mate or even interact with each other!
Perhaps the most famous killer whales in the world are SRKWs, and although there are an estimated 50,000 killer whales worldwide, SRKWs have struggled in recent years and their numbers have steadily declined. Consisting of three pods - J, K and L pods - the population is down to just over 70 individuals. They were targeted for capture by zoos and aquariums in the 60s and 70s causing lasting genetic and social gaps within the population. More recently, these animals’ primary prey, Chinook (King) salmon, have faced many challenges due to human infrastructure and pollution, causing a drastic decline in salmon population, and in turn, devastating the SRKW population. As a result, SRKW are
now seen less frequently in our waters, often leaving the Salish Sea to find salmon elsewhere.
Conservation efforts now focus on protecting this vulnerable eco -
type, with plans including restoring Chinook salmon populations. Additionally, whale-watching companies typically no longer choose to view SRKW, instead spending most of their time observing Bigg’s Killer Whales, a thriving ecotype that primarily hunts marine mammals.
In the absence of SRKWs, Bigg’s Killer Whales are becoming an increasingly common sighting in the Salish Sea. With a range stretching from northern California to Alaska, the Salish Sea has become an increasingly important feeding area for the Bigg’s population with plenty of seals, sea lions and porpoises available for Bigg’s to hunt. More than four hundred individual Bigg’s have been identified, consisting of more numerous but smaller pods of 2-8 individuals. Some specific pods are seen in the area much more commonly than others, such as the popular pod the T137s, a family of four led by their matriarch “Loon” who swam under Deception Pass a couple times this year.
Though Anacortes does offer some opportunities to catch a glimpse of whales from shore, coming aboard ethical whale-watching tours is often the best option to truly experience seeing whales in their natural habitat. Outer Island Excursions, a whale-watching operator here in Anacortes, prides itself in educating the public about wildlife, while also acting as sentinels on the water. Marine naturalists and captains often alert other boats to whale presence, remove harmful debris, and even occasionally assist the Stranding Network with entangled animals, making these waters a safer place for whales and wildlife through action and education.
Encountering these animals in the wild is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, and a reminder of how special the waters surrounding Anacortes truly are.
Heading out in a boat may mean a glimpse of marine life ranging from orcas, gray whales and humpbacks to seals, otters and bald eagles.
Skagit Guided Adventures offers hiking, birding, tulips,
wildflowers, fall color and sightseeing trips. Connect with nature on unique and exceptional experiences which promise to enrich your life, creating unforgettable memories to last a lifetime. Skagitguidedadventures.com. 360-474-7479
Anacortes Dinner Cruise, Departing from Cap Sante marina we cruise the scenic waters if the San Juan Islands in style during a non-stop cruise. 3-hour Island Cruise, 12-3pm or evening 4-7pm. anacortesdinnercruise.com, 360333-5282
Island Adventures. At Island Adventures, we pride ourselves on being the most experienced and dedicated whale watching company in Washington. From private charters to our extended-range cruise, Island Adventures offers more than just guaranteed whale watching tours. island-adventures.com, 800-465-4604 or 360-293-2428
Outer Island Excursions Whale watching, Guaranteed Orca Tours, Fishing Charters, Private Charters, Kayaking, Water Taxi, Bike/e-Bike/moped Rentals and tours. outerislandx.com, 360-376-3711
Deception Pass Tours, Take a ride on a seated open deck boat and enjoy a 360-degree unobstructed view. deceptionpasstours.com, 888-909-TOURS
Sail Anacortes. Offering traditional sailing charters. sail-anacortes.com,
360-504-6135
Freedom Boat Club. Freedom Boat Club welcomes and embraces a broad mix of members to its ranks, from first-time boaters and newbies, to seasoned salts and former boat owners, from young families to active retired. freedomboatclub. com
Charter services also offer transportation or fishing.
Island Express Charters. We are available for regularly scheduled water-taxi and freight transportation runs, and private charters as well. islandexpresscharters. com, 360-299-2875
Jolly Mon Charters. A family owed business departing from Skyline Marina in Anacortes, we specialize in fishing charters that cater to all skill levels and ages. jollymoncharters.com, 360-202-2664
R&R Charters, We are currently offering trout and steelhead drift boat trips on the Skagit and Nooksack rivers. Additionally, we are offering Eagle Watching tours on the Skagit and Nooksack Rivers from December through February for $115 per person (up to 5 guests) Located in Anacortes WA, R&R Charters is celebrating its 30th year providing guided salmon, halibut, and lingcod fishing charter trips. randrfishingcharters.com, 360-941-6515
San Juan Adventures, Offering Bottom Fishing Charters for Lingcod and more, Shrimp/Prawn Charters, Dungeness Crabbing Charters. All equipment, line, bait and
licensing will be provided. sanjuancharters.net, 360-661-5475
Highliner Charters, Come spend a day with Highliner Charters and experience the excitement of landing a king salmon, giant lingcod or huge halibut. highlinercharters.com, 360-770-0341
StoutFish Charters. Stout Fish Charters offers a wide range of services including salmon, lingcod, halibut, prawning, crabbing and customized sightseeing. Stout Fish is proudly a US Coast Guard licensed and insured charter company. stoutfish.com, 425-345-9577
Anacortes Yacht Charters, A private yacht charter is your ticket to a Pacific Northwest vacation of a lifetime. Choose a hands-on adventure or hire a skipper for a more guided experience. anacortesyachtcharters.com, 1-800-233-3004
Paraclete Charters,We can move your group of 1 to 50 throughout the San Juan islands in the comfort of our smoothride, climate-controlled vessels. One-way trips or a multi-day itinerary. paracletecharters.com, 360-420-5187
Mocean Yacht Charters, Our mission is to provide trusted, safe and personalized yacht services throughout the San Juan Islands and Salish Sea. moceanyc.com, 360-612-2973
Blue Kingdom, Blue Kingdom Tours is a local, family-owned and operated company. Passionate about exploring the Salish Sea, our local waters are home to 33 species of marine mammals, 172 species of birds, and over 250 species of fish! bluekingdomtours.com, 5646-900-6565
Catchmore Charters, When you book a San Juan Islands sport fishing trip with Catchmore Charters you’ll be fishing with Jim Aggergaard or his son Jim Jr. Both men hold master captain’s licenses and are top tournament fishermen. catchmorecharters.com, 360-293-7093
The Anacortes Community Forest Lands is city-owned property offering easy to moderate trails. Maps on water-resistant paper are available at anacorteswa.gov or pick up at City Hall, 904 Sixth St., and at the Visitor Informa-
tion Center, 819 Commercial Ave, Suite A.
The Tommy Thompson Trail is a scenic, flat ride or walk from downtown along the east side of the island on a paved trail that leads to the trestle that crosses Fidalgo Bay to March point. Cyclists can add more miles by following the road around the point and then back to the trestle.
The Guemes Channel Trail follows the shore on the north side of Fidalgo Island. It offers scenic views of the channel, Guemes Island and Mount Baker. Trail connections are off Edwards Way in the San Juan Passage subdivision and down the wooden stairs at Oakes and Kansas Avenues.
Swinomish Golf Links, 12518 Christianson Road, is an 18-hole, par-72
public course on the west side of Fidalgo Island between Fidalgo and Similk bays. The course is rated 67.8 for men and 65.2 for women. It has a slope rating of 110 for men and 106 for women. Operated by the Swinomish Casino & Lodge. swinomishgolflinks.com . 360293-3444.
Six tennis courts are at Anacortes Middle School, 22nd Street near J Avenue.
Pickleball court is at Clearidge Park, 1900 block of Blakely Drive next to the Anacortes Airport.
Fidalgo Pool & Fitness Center , 1603 22nd St., has a schedule that includes times for open swims and lap swims. The facility includes a 1,900-square-foot fitness center. Fidalgopool.com 360-293-0673.
The First Friday Artwalk features some of the best new art around Anacortes. Galleries and businesses host shows with special hours and artist receptions from 6-8 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. anacortesart.com
The annual Quilt Walk in April by the Fidalgo island Quilters features fabulous fabric art. Again, downtown businesses and shops do their part to feature pieces from the quilters in their stores. Visit fidalgoislandquilters.com for more information.
July 31-August 4, 2026 brings the annual Anacortes Arts Festival. This isn’t just any art event. The Festival is in its 63rd year, hosting more than 230 booth artisans, producing a highly acclaimed fine art show, and averaging around 80,000 visitors during the first weekend in August. Our exciting Festival is a free event to the public and included two stages of free entertainment daily, a beer garden, a wine bar and a youth area which is dedicated space for kids and family activities. Visit anacortesartsfestival.com.
The 2024 Anacortes Artist’s Studio Tour will take place on September 5-6. Colorful signage will lead to open studios from the Skyline neighborhood to Cap Sante and from Old Town to the foot of Mt. Erie – with maps are available to guide visitors who love to see where local art is created and to meet the artists who welcome questions about their work. Visit anacortesstudiotour.com.
Summer wouldn’t be complete in Anacortes without the outdoor concerts. There are several, including the rock and blues series hosted on Friday nights at Seafarers’ memorial park in Cap Sante marina. During part of that series, a Wednesday jazz series brings even more live music to the area. Learn more at portofanacortes.com.
Summer Concert Series
July – 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29
August 7, 14, 21
The Anacortes Public Library sponsors local jazz events, including free jazz concerts on the second Sunday of each month.
Local eateries often offer live music all year.
Anacortes Community Theatre presents several shows each year, including comedy, drama and musicals. Visit acttheatre.com
Fidalgo DanceWorks school holds classes for all ages throughout the year, as well as shows in May0 and December, in addition to the annual holiday ballet “The Nutcracker.” Visit fidalgodanceworks.org.
Art is such a big part of life here that Anacortes offers numerous public murals and sculptures that can be seen any time and in any weather.
“Aerie” is a large bird nest culture in the roundabout on the way into town where Highway 20 turns onto Commercial Avenue.
“Lady of the Sea” stands watch over Cap Sante marina, along with the Seafarers’ Memorial.
“Annie Curtis” is the bronze orca fin named after the town’s namesake and created by Gerard Tsutakawa.
“Windsong” by Leo Osborne is a bronze bird at Kiwanis park.
“The Bird Family” is a bronze piece by Philip McCracken at the Post Office downtown.
“How Much Longer” by Peregrine O’Gormley is at Fourth Avenue and O Street.
“The Leaking Vase” by Andries Lukas Breedt is at the N Street Park.
“Three Sails” doubles as a welcome sign near the Anacortes ferry terminal entrance off Oakes.
Murals of townspeople. Created by the late Bill Mitchell, appear in various places around town, particularly downtown.
Other pieces include: a painting on the south side of the Wilson Hotel on Eighth Street of city namesake Anne Curtis Bowman, who was wife of city founder Amos Bowman, by Swedish artist Lisa Liedgren.
Even the garbage cans offer an artistic touch. The “salmon cans” downtown pay homage to 11 salmon canneries that operated here in the early 1900s.
The Anacortes Mural Project was given into the care of the Anacortes Museum on August 10, 2020. Also, a mural documentary video and smartphone tour have been created as interpretive resources.
For more information on the murals contact the Anacortes Museum or visit anacorteswa. gov/1550/Mural-Updates
Just a few minutes away by ferry is Guemes Island, which boasts a general store with food and live music, hiking trails and more.
Recreation options include Young’s Park, which is 13 acres at 4243 Guemes Island Road and offers picnic amenities and water access.
Head east for a view of nearby islands from Guemes Mountain. Take a hike that is a roughly 2.4 miles roundtrip and has 550 feet of elevation gain. The railhead is just off South Shore Road and includes a bike rack.
The Peach Preserve us located off South Shore Drive and is well-known for bird-watching with 64 acres of protected land and a half-acre of trails. Kelly’s Point beach is protected land accessible for low-impact, non-motorized use.
Parking is accessible from West Shore Drive.
If you’re looking to spend more that a day on the island, the Guemes Island Resort offer a variety of accommodations and features a boat launch, kayaks and sauna.
The Guemes Island Store, right near the ferry landing, is the main commercial operation on the island. It offers local food, some grocery items and frequent live music entertainment.
Guemes Island is accessible only by boat, but it’s a short five-minute ferry ride from Fidalgo Island. The ferry terminal is located at 500 I Ave. and offers frequent trips across the channel. Visit skagitcounty.net/ Departments/PublicWorksFerry/ main.htm.
The Samish and Swinomish tribal nations are indigenous to the Fidalgo Island area. Stops on their lands are part of the annual Canoe Journey, which features traditional dress, dances, food and other cultural sharing.
The Samish Indian Nation owns the Fidalgo Bay RV Resort, featuring scenic views of Fidalgo Bay and access to the Tommy Thompson Trail, which can be taken into town by bicycle or on foot.
Information: samishtribe.nsn.us
The Swinomish Casino & Lodge is located on Highway 20, just east of Anacortes. Views from the building take in the land that the Coast Salish people have called home for thousands of years. The tribe also operates an RV park and Swinomish Links Golf Course. Information: swinomish-nsn.gov.
There are many ways to explore both Anacortes and its surrounding areas through public transportation by land and sea.
Skagit Transit, based in Mount Vernon, provides bus service Monday through Saturday.
Route 410 includes stops at the Guemes Ferry terminal, the Washington State Ferrries terminal and March point. Route 409 runs from 10th Street and Q Avenue downtown to Island Health, with stops including the Guemes Island Ferry, Fidalgo Pool and the senior center. Route 40X goes from March Point to Mount Vernon. Route 615 does the same, but with stops in La Conner.
Skagit Transit runs throughout Skagit County with connector service to several areas. Paratransit is available for people with disabilities who cannot travel on fixed routes. A Park & Ride lot is east of Anaccortes at March Point. Information: 360-757-443 or skagittransit.org.
Washington State Ferries provides passenger and car service from the Anacortes terminal to multiple San Juan Islands. The route to Sidney, British Columbia, has been closed since 2019, check with Washington Stare Ferries for updated information.
The Anacortes ferry terminal is at the end of Highway 20, four miles west of downtown. Reservations are required for vehicles.
Information: 888-808-7977 or wsdot. wa.gov/ferries.
Guemes Island Ferry provides ferry service for passengers and vehicles from Anacortes across the Guemes Channel to Guemes Island. The dock is located at Sixth Street and I Avenue.
Information: 360-419-7618 or skagitcounty.net/Departments/PublicWorksFerry/main.htm
Anacortes Airport, at 4000 Airport Road, offers various airports services. Charters and scenic flights are available. Call San Juan Airlines at 800-874-4434. Airport information: 360-299-1828 or portofanacortes.com/airport
Come for the scenery, check out local arts & events, visit the markets and viewpoints, indulge in varied recreational opportunities. Plan your adventure today!