Our to Vashon Island including: Ferry Rides, Art, Pastries and Island Charm

From Port Angeles to the Ferry

This morning we woke up early and enjoyed a big breakfast at the buffet at Olympic Lodge by Ayres in Port Angeles. With full bellies and coffee in hand, we packed up the car and started our 2½-hour drive toward Vashon Island, our next stop on this Washington adventure.

The highlight of this journey was definitely the ferry ride — a true Pacific Northwest experience! We caught the ferry from Southworth to Vashon, then continued on toward Fauntleroy later that day.

Cost: $36.90 one way for a standard vehicle and driver
Crossing time: approximately 50 minutes
Tip: Check the latest schedule on WSDOT Ferries before traveling, as sailing times vary by season.

We brought a packed lunch and enjoyed it in the car while we cruised across the calm waters of Puget Sound. The gentle rocking of the ferry, the cool sea breeze, and the surrounding mountain views made for a relaxing and scenic trip.

Ferry to Vashon Island

First Impressions of Vashon Island

Arriving on Vashon Island feels like stepping into another world — one that’s quiet, creative, and deeply connected to nature. The island has a rich history dating back thousands of years, originally inhabited by the Coast Salish and S’Homamish peoples. Later, it became a center for farming, logging, and fishing before evolving into the artistic, rural community it is today.

Vashon is often described as “a short ferry ride, but a world away” — a sentiment that felt true from the moment we arrived.

Coffee, Pastries & Local Flavor at Snapdragon

Our first stop was Snapdragon Bakery & Café — a must-visit spot on the island. Housed in a rustic, eclectic building filled with art and plants, Snapdragon offers an incredible selection of pastries (including their famous croissant-dough donuts), hearty vegetarian meals, and locally roasted coffee.

It’s the kind of place where locals gather, artists sketch, and travelers linger a little longer than planned. Definitely a highlight for any food lover visiting Vashon!

The Vashon Troll — “Oscar the Bird King”

Next, we headed to see the island’s newest celebrity: The Vashon Troll, officially named Oscar the Bird King. This massive wooden sculpture was created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, known for his series of trolls made entirely from recycled materials.

Oscar is nestled in the forest near Point Robinson Park, and getting there is part of the fun — a short, easy, family-friendly walking trail leads you through lush greenery before you come face-to-face with the giant wooden guardian.

Location: Near Point Robinson Park
Cost: Free (just pay for parking if applicable)
Best time to visit: Early morning or later afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds

It’s a magical, storybook-like experience — and one of the most memorable stops on the island!

Staying at The Lodges on Vashon

As the afternoon rolled on, we wandered through the charming town of Vashon, grabbed a snack, and then checked into our accommodation for the night: The Lodges on Vashon.

This boutique property feels both modern and cozy, featuring private cabin-style lodges set around a shared outdoor space. There’s a communal fire pit, lawn games, and plenty of room for kids (and adults!) to play or relax.

After a day of exploring, we kicked off our shoes, enjoyed some downtime, and watched the sunset from our porch. Tomorrow, our journey continues — onward to Seattle!

Vashon Lodge Property

Vashon Island Highlights & Tips

You can only get there by ferry — it’s part of the adventure!
Don’t miss Snapdragon Bakery & Café for coffee and pastries.
Visit the Vashon Troll early to beat the crowds.
Stay at The Lodges on Vashon for a unique and comfortable island experience.
Embrace the pace — Vashon is all about slowing down, exploring local art, and enjoying island life.

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Vashon Island