Whidbey Island Real Estate
& Neighborhood Guide

Founded in 1876, Anacortes was first discovered by Amos and Annie Bowman. Bowman purchased the land for $1,000 in 1877 and named the town "Anacortes" — a variation of his wife's maiden name, Anna Curtis. The post office officially recognized the name in March 1879.

San Juan Island was one of the first islands in the San Juans to step into industry. in 1866, a lawyer from Tacoma tapped into the natural lime deposits on the island and created the Tacoma and Roche Harbor Lime Company; putting San Juan Island on the map.

After the 1950's lime production had stalled, the Tarte family purchased the industrial ghost town and pushed to turn the town into a boaters haven. Thus turning the tide for many communities in and around the San Juan Islands from industry to tourism. 

In 1951, WSDOT took over the local ferry service. This change furthered the accessibility of both Anacortes, and the San Juans. 

Nestled in protected waters, Fidalgo Island became a key hub for industry and commercial use. The early establishment of milling, fish canning, and boat building provided a thriving local economy that allowed for growth. In 1926, the Port of Anacortes was created; further establishing the industrial presence in Washington. This working waterfront allowed for heavier industry to follow. The major refineries followed later, established March's Point, and began exporting. 

With more than 2,950 acres of protected forestlands, miles of trails, and a multitude of lakes; Anacortes is natural wonderland. Both the City of Anacortes, and the local non-profit Friends of the Anacortes Community Forestlands, work tirelessly to maintain these trails for year around use. 

Taking one of the many trails on the island will likely lead you to one of 6 publicly accessible lakes on the island;  Lake Erie, Pass Lake, Heart Lake, Whistle Lake, Little Cranberry, Trafton Lake. Whistle Lake is a local favorite for swimming, as it's the deepest and cleanest lake with no boat launch.

Public beaches are less common, as many are available only for private usage of an HOA. You can still spend the day playing in the ocean, reserve a BBQ spot or launch a boat from Washington Park, Rosario Beach or Bowmans Bay. 

Anacortes is a hub for whale watching, charter fishing, pleasure boating, exploring the San Juans, crabbing, shrimping, and endless weekend trips. 

The islands provide the perfect environment for pleasure boating, with limited open waters. On average Anacortes has 111 mostly sunny days, with Seattle having an average of 88. The temperate climate aids in spending more days outside enjoying all the San Juans have to offer. 

Anacortes is located about 80 miles North of Seattle, 96 miles South of Vancouver, Canada, and 50 miles South of Bellingham. The close proximity to more densely populated areas, allows flexibility for both working and for extracurriculars. 

With the world of working remotely, Anacortes provides a haven for work-life balance. Finish your work day, and step into the natural world to unwind. 

Anacortes is a vibrant community, filled with equally vibrant events. Summer time brings the community together, often shutting down Commercial Avenue.  Anacortes Arts Festival, Fourth of July parade, Anacortes Boat Show, Shipwreck Day, Anacortes Waterfront Festival, Beer on the Pier, Oyster Run, the Summer Concert Series and many more small weekend events that bring the community together. 

Summer days in Anacortes are never quite long enough. 

Just a hop, skip and a jump away from NAS Whidbey, Island Health Hospital, Janicki, Sinclair and Marathon Refineries, Sierra Pacific Industry; all are large contributors to the local economy and large employers. 

Aside from larger corporations, Anacortes has many thriving small business that provide local jobs to its residents. 

What's your favorite thing about living in Anacortes?

Kristine Stultz, Founder of Lapis Homes

I've been a resident of Anacortes since 2003. I've seen it grow and change as I've raised my 3 kids. My favorite part of Anacortes is that is always grows and changes with what you need. There always seems to be enough going on for whatever you need. 

What's your favorite thing about living in Anacortes?

Audrey Stultz, Agent of Lapis Homes

'Anacortes holds a dear place in my heart. Growing up, I took the safety and community for granted. Upon return after college, I quickly learned that someone saying hello on a walking trail or a local business owner remembering you, was so rare in a city of our size. The warmth of Anacortes is so special.