I must confess to traveling this stretch of Washington’s I-5 corridor, often overlooking the quiet Camano Island exit in favor of more distant destinations. However, what I discovered beyond the small town of Stanwood and across the bridge to Camano Island made me realize just how mistaken I had been.

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Here, I was greeted by an unexpected landscape filled with rolling hills, farmland and forests of evergreen alongside rugged shorelines. The abundant produce, fields of lavender, winding trails, lush nature, peacefulness and unobstructed saltwater views quickly made it clear how much this island resonated with my soul.

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Mere miles from historic Utsalady Bay, where tall ships once loaded the 200-foot trees that cemented the island’s early timber and shipbuilding industry, is where I found my home away from home. Or perhaps it was the 1914 Arlene Farmhouse that found me. Either way, none could be quainter than the fully restored home where modern comforts and rustic charm perfectly align for a slow and relaxed getaway.

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Up the road, Arrowhead Ranch and Flower Farm lie in wait, a playground for all ages. The 50-acre working farm, open year-round, is brimming with activities championed by owners Randy and Marla Heagle. From archery and axe throwing to workshops, makers' markets, live outdoor performances and a fully operational animal and flower farm, this is agrotourism at its finest.

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“We have so many ideas and are continually adding activities that focus on bringing the community together,” says co-owner Randy.

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A large soapbox derby track hosts races several times a year, and the half-acre LANE (Little Arrowhead Nature Explore) outdoor space awaits little explorers ages five and under.

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Emily Molina

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I never thought I could while away the days from farm to farm before I came here, and then I saw the historic Kristoferson Farm barn on the hillside amid a backdrop of lavender fields.  

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The former dairy barn was built in 1914, while the farm has been in the Kristoferson family since 1912. Now in its sixth generation, the farm focuses on agriculture—organic hay, lavender, dahlias, pumpkins, apples and timber. The farm also hosts year-round events and activities such as ziplining with Canopy Tours Northwest and team-building experiences through Terra Teams.

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“Of our 232 acres, it’s about half forest and half farmland,” says Kris Kristoferson, a fourth-generation member of the family who helps manage the family business alongside his four sisters. “All of our agriculture acreage is certified organic.”

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Spending time with the goats and the barn cat, Alfred, while touring the expansive grounds where Kristoferson ran wild as a boy deepened my appreciation for the farm's history and the family's passion.

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Even before reaching the beaches, I was enchanted by Camano Island. Visiting the island's two state parks only solidified this feeling. Cama Beach State Park, located on the southwest shore, and Camano Island State Park, just one mile south, each offer a myriad of walking and hiking trails, nature viewing areas, fishing and water activities.

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Among the numerous other parks, English Boom Park was my favorite due to its connection to the early logging days and the area's rich history, which is evident in the remnants of old pilings. A waterfront trail and a partial boardwalk wind along its shores, scattered with driftwood of various shapes and sizes.

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Having explored just some of what Camano Island has to offer, my next journey will take a direct route to this less-traveled island to be sure.

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Visit whidbeycamanoislands.com to plan your trip.

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How To Get There

Camano Island is located between the mainland and Whidbey Island, with Port Susan to the east, Saratoga Passage to the west, Skagit Bay to the north and Possession Sound to the south. The island has no ferry service, but is accessible by car on the bridge from Stanwood.

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Where To Stay

While many visitors opt to camp at Cama Beach State Park or Camano Island State Park, a handful of charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts, along with triple the number of Airbnb’s, are available. Book your own stay at The Arlene Camano Farmhouse at airbnb.com/rooms/35917867.

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Where To Dine

Cama Beach Cafe, situated within Cama Beach State Park, features an exceptional array of scratch-made baked goods, family-style breakfasts, and lunches, all complemented by a stunning stone hearth and breathtaking water views.

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Visit Blue Heron Kitchen and Bar for craft cocktails and farm-to-table dining. The modern aesthetic, featuring art-adorned walls and shades of blue, creates an inviting atmosphere that complements the amazing cuisine. Enjoy your meal on the covered patio while taking in the forested views of Kristoferson Lake.