Anacortes, Washington: Gateway to the San Juan Islands

Written By RV Out West

Explore Anacortes, Washington, a coastal community on Fidalgo Island that embodies the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Known as the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands,” Anacortes is a place where forest trails meet saltwater shorelines and small-town life flows at an easy pace. Visitors can hike through Washington Park, take in sweeping views from Mount Erie, kayak along calm bays, or join a whale-watching tour to spot orcas and other marine life. The town also offers excellent camping options, great local restaurants like the beloved Donut House, and favorites such as Compass Wines and Watermark Book Company.

Anacortes’ history runs deep with maritime heritage, and its downtown is filled with locally owned shops, galleries, and cafés that give it a welcoming, lived-in feel. The nearby Deception Pass State Park adds even more opportunity for outdoor adventure with its dramatic cliffs, beaches, and forested trails. From the vibrant waterfront to peaceful coastal views, Anacortes is a place that invites you to slow down, explore, and experience the best of Washington’s island life.

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SHOW NOTES

Episode Description

On Fidalgo Island in Washington State, Anacortes is a favorite stop for RV travelers exploring the Pacific Northwest. Known as the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands,” this town offers close access to island-hopping adventures, rugged shorelines, and sweeping views of the Salish Sea. With waterfront activities, a lively downtown, and proximity to Deception Pass, many RVers plan Anacortes as a must-visit destination.

You’ll hear descriptions of its landscapes: downtown’s brick storefronts, bustling harbor with ferries and sailboats, wooded hills with trails running through evergreens, and distant mountain views. The episode also covers outdoor adventures like hiking in Washington Park, kayaking in the harbor, and whale-watching excursions—plus tips on RV camping in Anacortes and using the local ferry network.

We dig into the region’s geography, too: Fidalgo Island’s position, bridges to the mainland, forested hills, Mount Erie’s vantage points, and shorelines around Rosario Strait and Padilla Bay. You’ll also get an outline of Anacortes’ size (just over 15 square miles) and what that means for getting around as an RV traveler. The episode wraps up with Anacortes’ history—from the Samish people to the town’s 1879 founding by Amos Bowman, through its evolution in maritime trade, fishing, and local industry. We also touch on how Washington State Ferries began serving the San Juan Islands in 1951.

Places & Highlights Mentioned (with Links)

Tips, Takeaways & What to Expect

  • Plan early: Summer is busy, especially if you want a ferry slot or prime camping spot.

  • Weather can shift quickly—dress in layers for coastal breezes and sun.

  • Parking downtown can be tight—walking or biking often beats driving.

  • Reserve your whale-watching tour ahead of time with Island Adventures for the best chance at seeing whales.

  • The Donut House is often recommended by locals and travelers alike—try the blueberry fritter! Wanderlog+2Wanderlog+2

  • Stay options range from Fidalgo Bay Resort (full hookups, amenities) to state parks and city campgrounds.

Related Episodes & Links

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