A Local’s Guide to Living on Camano Island: Best Restaurants, Parks & More
Tucked away in the heart of Puget Sound, Camano Island offers a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle without the hassle of a ferry. Whether you’re considering a move or just visiting, this island is a hidden gem filled with stunning waterfront views, friendly communities, and endless outdoor adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants, parks, and things to do to help you experience the true essence of Camano Island living.
Why Live on Camano Island?
🌲 Breathtaking Natural Beauty – Enjoy forests, beaches, and panoramic water views everywhere you go.
🚗 Easy Mainland Access – Unlike many PNW islands, Camano is drive-on accessible via a bridge—no ferry required!
🏡 A Close-Knit Community – With a small-town feel and welcoming neighbors, Camano is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with modern conveniences.
🎣 Outdoor Paradise – Kayaking, hiking, fishing, and beachcombing are everyday activities when you live here!
Best Restaurants on Camano Island
🍽️ Blue Heron Kitchen & Bar – A local favorite offering Pacific Northwest-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails in a modern, inviting setting.
🍽️ Tapped Camano – Known for locally sourced ingredients, rotating craft beers, and a fun atmosphere, Tapped is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
🍽️ Cama Beach Café – Nestled in Cama Beach State Park, this charming café serves up hearty breakfasts and delicious homemade pastries with a view.
🍽️ The Baked Café – Perfect for burger lovers, this café offers freshly baked bread, gourmet sandwiches, and unique artisan burgers.
🍽️ Rockaway Bar & Grill – A laid-back spot featuring classic American fare, fresh seafood, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Best Parks & Outdoor Activities
🏕 Cama Beach State Park – A historic waterfront park with scenic hiking trails, beach access, and the center for wooden boats.
🌲 Camano Island State Park – A must-visit for nature lovers, featuring miles of forested hiking trails, rocky beaches, and breathtaking views of Puget Sound.
🐦 Iverson Spit Preserve – A peaceful beach and wetland area perfect for birdwatching, kayaking, and leisurely strolls along the driftwood-lined shore.
🚶♂️ Four Springs Preserve – A hidden gem with tranquil walking trails, open meadows, and a serene setting perfect for a quiet nature escape.
🌅 Barnum Point Preserve – This scenic bluff-top trail offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views on the island, along with beach access at multiple points.
🌿 English Boom Historical Park – A peaceful shoreline trail and wetland preserve offering stunning views of Port Susan Bay, easy walking paths, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. This historic site was once a booming timber hub and now serves as a tranquil spot for reflection and nature walks.
See the full guide to local hiking trails on Camano Island
Things to Do on Camano Island
🎨 Explore the Camano Island Art Scene – The island is home to a vibrant community of artists, and the annual Camano Island Studio Tour is a must-see event!
🐚 Go Beachcombing & Clam Digging – Camano’s beaches are great for finding seashells, driftwood, and digging for fresh clams.
🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding – With calm waters and incredible scenery, Camano is a paradise for paddlers. Popular launch spots include Utsalady Bay and Maple Grove Beach.
🎣 Fishing & Boating – Enjoy year-round fishing and crabbing opportunities and easy access to Puget Sound’s best waters.
🛍️ Stroll Through Camano Commons Marketplace – This lively community hub is home to local boutiques, artisan shops, great coffee, and delicious dining options. Whether you’re grabbing a cup of coffee at Camano Commons Coffee, browsing unique handmade goods, or meeting friends for a meal, this is a great place to soak in the local charm.
Living the Camano Island Lifestyle
Living on Camano Island is about slowing down and soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning coffee with an ocean view or exploring the island’s many trails, Camano offers a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation.
Thinking about making the move? 🏡 I’d love to help you find the perfect home on Camano Island! See the full guides on Why Camano Island is a great place to live, and Camano Island Relocation Guide.
Connect with me to explore all of the local listings!
See my featured listing here!
👉 What’s your favorite thing about Camano Island? Drop a comment below! 🌊✨ #CamanoIsland, #PNWLife, #IslandLiving, Camano Island Real Estate, Moving to Camano Island, Camano Island homes for sale, Camano Island waterfront homes, Best places to live in the Pacific Northwest
