Jetty Island
1 / 10

Jetty Island

4.6
·359 reviews·Everett, United States

Discover the longest sandy beach in the Puget Sound! A quick ferry ride from Everett leads to this natural oasis perfect for summer fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, July-August

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Jetty Island

Jetty Island

Best Time

Weekdays, July-August

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the longest sandy beach in the Puget Sound! A quick ferry ride from Everett leads to this natural oasis perfect for summer fun.

4.6
(359 reviews)

"It's a great place to go for the day, with nice sandy beaches and good vibes!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends. Don't miss your spot!

🎒 Pack All Your Essentials

No shops or amenities on the island. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Longest Sandy Beach

Longest Sandy Beach

Puget Sound

Miles of soft sand perfect for sunbathing, sandcastles, and kite flying. A rare find in the PNW!

Instagram+1
Quick Ferry Ride

Quick Ferry Ride

Everett Waterfront

A short, scenic 3-5 minute boat trip that feels like a mini-adventure.

InstagramReddit
Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Island shores

Keep an eye out for seals and diverse birdlife in this natural habitat.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Ferry Fun & Island Essentials

The Jetty Island ferry is your gateway! Book tickets in advance, especially for weekends, as they can sell out. Pack everything you need – food, drinks, sun protection – as there are no amenities on the island. Instagram+1

Best Time for Sandy Bliss

Jetty Island is a summer-only destination, typically open from early July to early September. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, July-August
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful and sunny
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Feels like a real life Emily Henry novel in the making 📍⚓️ #washingtonstate #seattle #summertrip #tripideas #dateideas #pnw #coastalgrandmother #orcasisland #everett #anacortes #ferry #wa
@baileygoesoutside
140.4K likes • 1.8M views

🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends. Don't miss your spot! Instagram+1

🎒 Pack All Your Essentials

No shops or amenities on the island. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Instagram

trying blazing crawfish 📍everett #fyp #seafood #seafoodboil #seafoodmukbang #mukbang #foodreview #everett #blazingcrawfish #seattle #kelseylovespho
@kelseylovesnoodles
43.4K likes • 545.5K views
🌊✨ Discovered a hidden gem in the PNW Jetty Island, the longest sandy beach in the Puget Sound! 🏖️ I can’t believe this was our first time here and I only found out about it thanks to other adventurous moms I follow on here. It’s seriously a must do summer spot! 😍 ⛴️ The ferry ride is quick and easy don’t let the reservation process scare you off like it did me at first. It’s super simple once y...
hellopnwumma
32 likes • 1.3K views

👟 Be Ready for Sink Sand

Some areas have soft, sinkable sand. It's part of the adventure! Reddit

🪁 Kite Flying Paradise

The consistent wind makes it ideal for kite flying. Bring yours along! Instagram

Jetty Island might be one of the best Puget Sound beaches for summer fun! Home to the longest sandy beach in the region, Jetty Island is just a quick five-minute boat ride from the Everett waterfront. The low-cost ferry is open from July 5–September 1. ⛴️ 🏖️ Our Family Fun Editor, @mcharaba, recently visited this hidden gem and has all the tips you need for a fantastic family outing. For the full...
parentmap
2.2K likes • 127.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends. Don't miss your spot! Instagram+1

🎒 Pack All Your Essentials

No shops or amenities on the island. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Instagram

👟 Be Ready for Sink Sand

Some areas have soft, sinkable sand. It's part of the adventure! Reddit

🪁 Kite Flying Paradise

The consistent wind makes it ideal for kite flying. Bring yours along! Instagram

🛶 Kayak/SUP Access

You can bring your own kayak or SUP to explore around the island. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(359 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jetty Island is a beloved summer escape, praised for its expansive sandy beaches and fun, short ferry ride. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and opportunities for activities like kite flying. Some note the 'sink sand' and the lack of amenities, emphasizing the need to pack everything you need.

"Great place to go for the day. You usually have good weather to fly a kite. Nice sandy beach, but when the water is out, it gets muddy and you sink in up to your calves. There is a dry toilet there in the summer. Picnic tables and volleyball courts, but none of them seemed very well kept this last time I was there."

J Craigen

"This island is very pretty and I had a lot of fun exploring and looking at all of the different plant life. It is hard to escape the sunshine for a lot of the places on the island, but there is at least one really good shade tree that we found to sit under. We went for the float find and were unsuccessful. We enjoyed checking out the environment and plants and animals. We made a reservation for the ferry the day before and for one of our party we made the reservation on the same day. We arrived there a little bit early and so we stood in the standby lane and were able to go across before our reserved time. It was only five dollars a piece to go across plus tax. Some of the ferries coming back from the island got full, so we had to wait a little while from when we were ready to leave until we were actually able to leave."

Zoie W.

"It was really good. Yes, it's a little bit of sink sand but it's really good a trip and we're gonna come back really soon. The little ferry ride is a lot of fun"

Jordon Harmon

What People Like

Long sandy beach
Quick ferry ride
Kite flying opportunities

What People Dislike

Sink sand
No amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary way to reach Jetty Island is via the dedicated ferry service from the Everett waterfront. The ride is very short, typically only 3-5 minutes. InstagramReddit

Yes, many visitors bring their own kayaks, paddleboards, or small boats to access the island, offering a more flexible way to explore. Reddit

The ferry departs from the Everett waterfront. Look for signs directing you to the Jetty Island ferry terminal. Instagram

There is typically parking available near the Everett waterfront ferry terminal, though it may be paid parking. It's advisable to check local parking options beforehand. Instagram

The ferry typically operates during the summer season, usually from early July through Labor Day. Always check the official schedule for exact dates. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The ferry is very affordable, often around $5 per person round trip, plus tax. It's a low-cost way to enjoy a unique destination. Reddit

It is highly recommended to reserve your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekend trips, as they can sell out. Instagram+1

Ferry hours vary daily and are subject to change. It's best to check the official Jetty Island ferry schedule online for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Jetty Island itself does not typically have an entrance fee; the cost is associated with the ferry transportation. Reddit

While standby tickets might be available, it's strongly advised to book in advance to guarantee your spot, as ferries can fill up. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy the long sandy beach for sunbathing, building sandcastles, flying kites, and swimming. There are also picnic areas and volleyball courts. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are dry toilets available during the summer season. However, there are no shops or concessions, so bring all your supplies. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for families with its sandy beaches, shallow water areas, and opportunities for kite flying and picnicking. Instagram

Visitors have reported seeing seals and various bird species. It's a great place for nature observation. Reddit

The ferry is generally accessible, but the sandy terrain on the island itself can be challenging for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility impairments. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no food vendors or restaurants on Jetty Island. You must bring all your own food and drinks. Instagram

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a full picnic lunch. Consider items that are easy to eat outdoors and don't require refrigeration if it's very hot. Instagram

Yes, picnic tables are available on the island, though they can be popular, especially on busy days. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the scenic ferry ride, the expansive sandy beaches, families enjoying the sun, and the natural landscape. Kite flying shots are also iconic. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the island. Reddit

The long stretch of sand, the ferry itself, and the natural shoreline provide excellent backdrops for memorable photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jetty Island is a fantastic family destination! The short ferry ride is an adventure in itself, and the long, sandy beach is perfect for kids to play, build sandcastles, and splash in the shallow water. InstagramReddit Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities. Consider bringing beach toys and a kite for extra fun. Weekdays are ideal for avoiding the biggest crowds. Reddit

☀️ Sun Worshippers & Beach Lovers

If you're seeking a true sandy beach experience in the PNW, Jetty Island is your spot. Its extensive shoreline offers ample space to lay out, soak up the sun, and enjoy the coastal vibes. Instagram+1 Remember to pack your best beach reads and sunscreen, as shade can be limited. The consistent breeze also makes it a prime location for kite flying. Instagram

🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Spotters

Beyond the beach, Jetty Island offers a chance to connect with nature. Keep an eye out for seals lounging near the shore and a variety of bird species. Reddit The island's natural terrain is interesting to explore, and it provides a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jetty Island Ferry Experience

The ferry to Jetty Island is more than just transportation; it's an integral part of the experience. Running from the Everett waterfront, this short, approximately 3-5 minute ride is incredibly scenic and affordable. InstagramReddit Many visitors highlight the ease and enjoyment of this quick journey, noting that it feels like a mini-adventure before even reaching the island. It's crucial to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend, as they are known to sell out. Instagram+1 The ferry operates seasonally, typically from early July through Labor Day, so plan your visit within these months. Instagram

For those seeking more flexibility or a different perspective, bringing your own kayak or paddleboard is a popular option. Reddit This allows you to explore the waters around the island at your own pace and potentially find more secluded spots. Regardless of how you arrive, the ferry is a low-cost, high-reward way to access this unique sandy oasis in the Puget Sound. Reddit

What to Pack for Your Jetty Island Adventure

Jetty Island is a natural escape, which means it lacks amenities like shops, restaurants, or even trash cans. Therefore, meticulous packing is key to a comfortable and enjoyable day. Instagram The most essential items include plenty of water and a substantial picnic lunch, as you'll be spending hours in the sun. Instagram Don't forget sun protection: high SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are non-negotiable. Reddit Beach towels and chairs or blankets will enhance your relaxation on the sand. Reddit

Given the island's reputation for wind, bringing a kite is a must-do activity and makes for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram If you plan on exploring the water's edge, water shoes can be helpful, especially as the sand can be soft and sometimes muddy when the tide is out. Reddit Finally, remember to pack out everything you pack in to help keep this beautiful natural area clean for everyone. Reddit

Understanding the 'Sink Sand' Phenomenon

One of the unique characteristics of Jetty Island, as noted by visitors, is its 'sink sand.' Reddit This refers to areas where the sand is particularly soft and can be deep, causing you to sink in up to your calves. While it might be a surprise to some, it's generally considered part of the island's natural charm and an experience to be had. Reddit

This phenomenon is often more noticeable when the tide is out, revealing a broader expanse of the beach. It doesn't detract from the enjoyment for most, but it's good to be aware of. Wearing water shoes can provide a bit more stability in these softer patches. Reddit Despite this, the overall consensus is that the sandy beach is a major draw, offering a rare opportunity for classic beach activities like sandcastle building in the Pacific Northwest. Reddit

You may also like