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Tucked in the Salish Sea and just a short five-minute ferry ride from Anacortes, Guemes Island is a peaceful retreat in Skagit County, Washington. With just 8.6 square miles of land and around 600 full-time residents, the island offers a blend of natural beauty, community warmth, and historical depth—all in a serene, easily accessible setting.
Guemes Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Guemes Mountain Trail, a local favorite, winds through lush forest and climbs 550 feet to a summit with sweeping views of the surrounding islands and waterways. The Peach Preserve, managed for conservation and public access, offers quiet trails and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At the western edge, Kelly’s Point provides a peaceful beach area perfect for sunset watching, birding, or a contemplative walk along the shore.
For cyclists, the island's quiet roads and rolling terrain make it ideal for a day of Guemes Island Cycling. Visitors often bring their bikes on the ferry to enjoy a self-paced exploration of the island's scenic routes.
Families and casual explorers will also enjoy the laid-back fun of Guemes Island Rocks! a local tradition of painting and hiding colorful rocks around the island, adding a playful touch to hikes and beachcombing. Dog Woods, a community-maintained off-leash forest trail, welcomes canine visitors and their companions for shaded strolls and social sniffing.
Tech-savvy adventurers can even enjoy a round of Pokémon Go, with notable PokéStops and Gyms scattered near the ferry landing and community center.
Guemes Island offers several public beaches ideal for beachcombing, kayaking, or simply unwinding. Young’s Park, located near Guemes Island Resort, features an east-facing beach with views of Samish and Vendovi Islands and, on clear days, Mount Baker. To the west, the beach at the end of Edens Road showcases striking sunsets over Cypress and the San Juan Islands. The island’s pebbled shores often reward patient beachcombers with agates, sea glass, and occasional tide pool surprises.
At the Guemes Island Resort, visitors can enjoy accommodations from rustic cabins to modern lodgings with private hot tubs. Resort amenities include complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats, along with a cedar sauna and massage services for ultimate relaxation.
Despite its small size, Guemes Island boasts a lively and connected community. The Guemes Island Community Center Association (GICCA) organizes events throughout the year, from dance classes and music nights to seasonal festivals. The Guemes Island General Store, the island’s only commercial establishment, doubles as a grocery, café, and social hub—often hosting live music and fundraisers.
The island's event calendar is active year-round. Guemes Island Events include holiday celebrations, art shows, educational workshops, and community markets that showcase local talent and bring residents and visitors together.
Guemes Island holds deep historical significance as a traditional winter village site of the Samish Indian Nation. This heritage is honored today through cultural preservation efforts, educational programs, and land stewardship that reflect a continued connection to the island’s original stewards.
Guemes Island is more than a getaway—it's a place where natural beauty, community spirit, and cultural depth converge. Whether you’re hiking the mountain trail, uncovering hidden painted rocks, or watching the sunset with a fresh agate in hand, Guemes offers a uniquely Pacific Northwest experience that’s both grounding and memorable.
At Lapis Homes, we believe that great real estate outcomes are built on collaboration, trust, and expertise. Let’s work together to create a smooth, successful real estate experience that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations.
