Stay In Vashon Castle – Washington
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- Vashon Island, Washington
Ferry Trip to Vashon Island
Welcome, future Vashon adventurer! Vashon Island, a serene escape just a short ferry ride from Seattle, is accessible exclusively by Washington State Ferries (WSF). With its lush forests, artisan farms, and laid-back vibe, arriving by ferry is part of the charm but a little planning goes a long way. The island has two main ferry terminals the Vashon Island Ferry Terminal on the north end and the Tahlequah Ferry Terminal on the south end. There are three routes serving these points, offering flexibility based on your starting location. We’ll break it down below, plus tips to make your journey smooth
The Three Ferry Routes to Vashon Island
All routes are operated by WSF and run year-round, but service frequency varies by season, day, and time. Fares are collected only when boarding to Vashon (no charge to leave the island) There are no vehicle reservations on any Vashon route all loading is first-come, first-served.
East Route: Fauntleroy (West Seattle) to Vashon Island Ferry Terminal (North End)
Distance & Time: About 15 minutes across the water.
Best For: Folks coming from West Seattle, heading south from Seattle via I-5,or arriving at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). This is the quickest option and a popular shortcut to the island’s north end.
Frequency: Up to every 30 minutes during peak hours; check for off-peak reductions.
South Route: Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah Ferry Terminal (South End)
Distance & Time: Roughly 20 minutes.
Best For: Travelers starting from Tacoma or the South Sound area.
Frequency: Frequent sailings, often every 45–60 minutes.
West Route: Southworth (Kitsap Peninsula) to Tahlequah Ferry Terminal (South End)
Distance & Time: About 10 minutes across the water.
Best For: Those coming from the Kitsap Peninsula, Bremerton, or points south via WA-16.
Frequency: Every 45–60 minutes; it’s a bit less frequent than the others.
Reaching and roaming this enchanted island is part of the adventure! Since Vashon Island is only accessible by ferry (or by broom, portkey, or private boat for the especially magical), most guests arrive via the Washington State Ferries. Once on the island, having a car is the best way to explore its winding forest roads, hidden beaches, and charming villages at your own pace.
The castle is just a short drive from shops, trails, and local eateries, and there’s ample parking on-site for your carriage (or vehicle of choice). For a slower, storybook pace, bicycles are a delightful way to see the island just beware of the occasional mischievous hill! Ferries to and from Seattle, Tacoma, and Southworth run daily, making day trips to the mainland both easy and scenic. Keep an eye on ferry schedules, especially in summer, when island wanderers abound.
However you choose to travel, the journey to and around Vashon is all part of the spell.
Explore Vashon Island and Seattle’s Charms
Located in the heart of Dockton, this retreat is minutes from Vashon’s vibrant offerings. Stroll to the Vashon Village (6 miles) for eclectic shops, cozy cafes like The Ruby Brink, or farm-to-table dining at May Kitchen + Bar. Wander the trails at Maury Island Marine Park for breathtaking Puget Sound views or beachcomb along Point Robinson Lighthouse, a historic gem with a keeper’s cottage straight out of a storybook. Art lovers can explore local galleries like Vashon Center for the Arts, while outdoor enthusiasts can kayak with Vashon Watersports or hike the lush trails of Island Center Forest. Visit the Vashon Farmers Market (April-October) for local produce, crafts, and a taste of island life. For a city adventure, hop on a quick ferry to Seattle (20-30 minutes), where you can explore iconic landmarks like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or Chihuly Garden and Glass. Enjoy Seattle’s vibrant dining scene, stroll through historic Pioneer Square, or take a scenic waterfront walk along Puget Sound, all easily accessible for a day trip from your magical island retreat.
