Snippets From Vashon/Maury Island

Modern ferries were preceded by Puget Sound's "Mosquito Fleet"

From the 1850's to the 1930's the Puget Sound's "Mosquito Fleet" carried passengers from port to port. Today, the Washington State ferries transport commuters and tourists to outlying islands and the Olympic Peninsula.   

See an 1892 photo here of the historic Presbyterian church in Center

If you've been following my posts you know that this year I installed three colonies of honey bees at Vashon Ciderworks on Vashon Island, a short 15 minute ferry ride from bustling West Seattle. In that short ride your psychy begins to transform. The salt air unites with the seagull's cry and the soothing shoosh of seawater sings the mariner's song that begins to work it's magic on your mind and soul. Time begins to slow, your eye pauses to examine details it passed by before and seemingly insignificant things become a memorable moment. You've now slipped into "island time" where a whole day can be spent in luscious languor.

Beach combing on a sun-washed day will reward you with small shells and agates but best of all a refreshed spirit. Beaches here are usually rocky or small-pebbled sand yet two here are fine-sand where you can dig your toes in. If your goal is to find a comfy place to lay a blanket try Point Robinson Park where you can take in a bit of history too.

In 1841 the Wilkes Expedition named the lighthouse in honor of John Robinson, a member of the expedition.

Another fine-sand beach worth trying is the Pt Heyer KVI beach so named because of the radio tower that dominates a portion of it. There is minimal parking on the street. Please respect the "no parking" signs. A beach I had a hard time finding was Lisabeula Park. Apparently located on the west side of Vashon Island, I felt like I was wasting too much time driving and abandoned the mission. The best map I've found is here.

Depending upon the time of year, seafood foraging can be a fun and adventurous pastime. There are local laws requiring permits for gathering everything from clams to seaweed and you can purchase these online at Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Cabins along Quartermaster Harbor

 When lunch time rolls around you'll want to sample some Island fare. For prepackaged organic picnic foods, island brew Cliff's beer, tea, coffee, fresh made goodies and homemade ice cream stop into Vashon Island Coffee Roasteries. You can do some shopping for other Island made goods here too and stop next door to do a little wine tasting. You'll find a variety of restaurants in town as well for sit down meals or stop into the Thriftway's deli for to-go orders of sandwiches, carved meats, and other made-to-order hot foods. Don't forget to pick up some Island made Dragon's Head Cider to wash it all down with!

 

My favorite nursery on the island is DIG. Situated along the main highway just south of town, it bursts with creative displays and a kaleidoscope of color. Drop in and wander around. You won't regret it. 

From sunup to sundown you'll have been able to explore every crevice and navitgate every road that Vashon and Maury have to offer. I hear that the nightlife can be fun too so check out the local happenings and events beforehand taking note of the last ferry sailing time unless, of course, you've booked one of the many island bed & breakfasts or beach houses for the night.

Sunset on Mt. Rainier

Sailing back to the mainland, life seems a little fuller. The explorer within satiated, one indulges in a few more lungfuls of salt air letting the wind draw it out until breathless. As quick as "island time" washed in, it rushes away, like the tide.