
Mukilteo Ferry Terminal Longhouse
A vital gateway to Whidbey Island, offering scenic Puget Sound crossings and waterfront charm with a historic lighthouse.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Mukilteo Ferry Terminal Longhouse
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital gateway to Whidbey Island, offering scenic Puget Sound crossings and waterfront charm with a historic lighthouse.
"The crossing was quick, smooth, and efficient. Just what we needed."

🚗 Pre-pay for Faster Boarding
Save time by prepaying online for your ferry ticket. Just show your QR code for a quick scan.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the Spot
For the 6 AM ferry, arriving by 5:30 AM is usually sufficient. Weekday commuters are fewer.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mukilteo Ferry Crossing
Mukilteo to Clinton (Whidbey Island)
Enjoy scenic Puget Sound views on a quick, efficient ferry ride. A must-do for island access and coastal vistas.

Mukilteo Lighthouse Park
Waterfront
Historic lighthouse offering picturesque views of the water and Olympic Mountains. Perfect for a stroll.

Ivar's Mukilteo Waterfront
Adjacent to Ferry Terminal
Savor fresh seafood with stunning waterfront dining. A popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Ferry Travel
Beyond the Ferry: Explore Mukilteo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pre-pay for Faster Boarding
Save time by prepaying online for your ferry ticket. Just show your QR code for a quick scan.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the Spot
For the 6 AM ferry, arriving by 5:30 AM is usually sufficient. Weekday commuters are fewer.
🚶 Walk-on for Leisure
Enjoy the ride as a walk-on passenger and explore Whidbey Island without your vehicle.
📸 Ferry ASMR & Views
Capture the unique sounds and sights of the ferry, perfect for content creators.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pre-pay for Faster Boarding
Save time by prepaying online for your ferry ticket. Just show your QR code for a quick scan.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the Spot
For the 6 AM ferry, arriving by 5:30 AM is usually sufficient. Weekday commuters are fewer.
🚶 Walk-on for Leisure
Enjoy the ride as a walk-on passenger and explore Whidbey Island without your vehicle.
📸 Ferry ASMR & Views
Capture the unique sounds and sights of the ferry, perfect for content creators.
🌊 Beachfront Bites
Combine your ferry trip with a meal at Ivar's for delicious seafood and great views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mukilteo Ferry for its efficiency, organization, and scenic beauty. The quick and smooth crossing, coupled with convenient amenities and reasonable pricing, makes it a highly recommended option for accessing Whidbey Island. While weekday mornings and weekends can be busy, planning ahead or traveling during off-peak hours ensures a hassle-free experience.
"We were pleasantly surprised by how quick and efficient the crossing was. The process was clean, well-organized, and moved along smoothly. There was just enough time to enjoy a quick coffee at the snack bar, use the restroom, or take a few photos without feeling rushed.
We visited on a weekday and experienced no wait times when heading over. However, we did notice a long lineup, so timing your visit can make a difference. Overall, the sailings are frequent and reasonably priced, making it a very convenient option."
Anil Yadav
"Great place to spend time walking around the lighthouse and riding the ferry as a walk-on. Enjoy lunch at Ivar's... indoor and outdoor dining available."
Gary Passavant
"We took the Mukilteo ferry from Clinton to Mukilteo during our motorcycle trip, and it was a great experience. The ride was quick, smooth, and efficient. Just what we needed.
We paid $6 for the motorcycle, and there was no extra charge for the passenger, which was a nice bonus. The ferry has a small snack bar and a cozy rest area simple but just right for relaxing for a few minutes before arriving.
Boarding and exiting were easy, and everything ran on time. A great option for crossing this route without hassle!"
Nasim Yousefi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mukilteo Ferry Terminal is located at 9716 58th Place W, Mukilteo, WA 98275. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular departure point for Whidbey Island.
From Seattle, take I-5 North to exit 189 for WA-526 West towards Mukilteo. Continue on WA-526 W, which becomes Mukilteo Speedway. Turn right onto 58th Street SW, and the terminal will be on your left.
While specific routes can vary, Snohomish County Transit (Community Transit) serves the Mukilteo area. Check their website for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules that connect to the ferry terminal.
Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Mukilteo area and can drop you off directly at the ferry terminal.
The most common and convenient way is to take the Washington State Ferry from Mukilteo to Clinton on Whidbey Island. The crossing is short and offers beautiful views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry fares vary based on vehicle type and passenger count. For example, a motorcycle with a passenger might cost around $6. It's best to check the official Washington State Ferries website for current pricing.
Yes, you can prepay for your ferry tickets online through the Washington State Ferries website. This allows for faster boarding with a QR code.
The Mukilteo-Clinton ferry runs frequently throughout the day. Sailings are generally every 30 minutes during peak times and hourly during off-peak hours. Check the WSDOT Ferries schedule for exact times.
For standard vehicle and walk-on passengers, you do not need to book a specific time slot. You pay for your crossing upon arrival or in advance. However, arriving early is recommended during busy periods.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or through specific passes. It's advisable to check the Washington State Ferries website for any current promotions or discount programs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Besides waiting for your ferry, you can visit the nearby Mukilteo Lighthouse Park, enjoy a meal at Ivar's, or simply relax and take in the waterfront views.
Yes, the terminal has restrooms, and there's a snack bar aboard the ferries offering food and drinks for purchase.
The ferry ride from Mukilteo to Clinton (Whidbey Island) is approximately 20 minutes.
The Mukilteo Ferry Terminal Longhouse is a cultural landmark that serves as a gathering place and represents the rich heritage of the local Native American tribes. It's often a point of interest for visitors.
Absolutely! The waterfront location offers great photo opportunities, especially of the ferry, the Sound, and the lighthouse.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ivar's Mukilteo Waterfront is a popular choice right by the terminal, offering seafood with great views. There are also other local eateries in Mukilteo.
Yes, the ferries typically have a snack bar where you can purchase drinks, snacks, and light meals.
Ivar's is known for its classic Pacific Northwest seafood, including fish and chips, clam chowder, and fresh fish entrees.
Generally, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages onto the ferry for personal consumption.
While Ivar's focuses on seafood, they often have a few non-seafood options that might cater to vegetarian diets. It's best to check their menu directly for current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The best spots include the ferry itself, the waterfront with views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains, and the historic Mukilteo Lighthouse.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Midday can be bright but still offers clear views of the water and surrounding landscape.
Yes, you can photograph the ferries and the boarding process. It's a dynamic scene that many visitors enjoy capturing.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
From the ferry, you can capture stunning panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and the water. It's a great perspective for landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Mukilteo, Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is a great spot for kids to run around and explore. The nearby Ivar's offers a casual dining experience with kid-friendly options. Pre-paying for the ferry can help reduce stress, and the onboard snack bar provides convenient treats.
🚗 Road Trippers & Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Taking the ferry provides a scenic break from driving, offering beautiful coastal vistas. It's a chance to stretch your legs, grab a quick bite, and enjoy the fresh sea air before reaching your destination. The smooth boarding and disembarking process are also appreciated by drivers.
📸 Content Creators & Photographers
From the ferry, you can capture sweeping panoramas of the coastline and islands. The journey provides a dynamic backdrop for vlogs, travel photos, or even short films. Don't forget to explore the waterfront for shots of the lighthouse and the bustling terminal activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mukilteo-Clinton Ferry Route
Travelers often praise the smooth and organized boarding process, especially when tickets are purchased in advance online. The frequency of sailings, typically every 30 minutes during peak times, minimizes wait times. Onboard, passengers can enjoy amenities like a snack bar and rest areas, making the short journey comfortable. The ferry is also a popular subject for photographers, with its distinctive vessels and the dramatic Pacific Northwest landscape providing ample visual appeal.
For those planning their trip, understanding the ferry schedule and considering off-peak travel times can significantly enhance the experience. Weekday mornings and evenings tend to be busier due to local commuters, while weekends can also see increased traffic. Arriving a bit earlier than your desired departure time is always a good strategy to ensure a timely crossing.
Exploring Mukilteo's Waterfront
Adjacent to the ferry terminal is Ivar's Mukilteo Waterfront, a beloved local restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning views. It provides an excellent opportunity to savor classic Pacific Northwest dishes like fish and chips or clam chowder while overlooking the water. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining, making it a pleasant stop regardless of the weather.
Beyond these main attractions, the Mukilteo waterfront offers a relaxed atmosphere. The presence of the Mukilteo Longhouse also adds a layer of cultural significance to the area, representing the heritage of the indigenous peoples of the region. This combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and culinary delights makes the Mukilteo waterfront a worthwhile stop before or after your ferry journey.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit