Top Five Places to See in Anacortes Washington

Nestled on Fidalgo Island in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find the coastal city of Anacortes, Washington–the ideal home base for everything adventure. Just two hours north of Seattle, Anacortes is a must see for travelers craving unforgettable views, stunning parks, and incredible wildlife. Here’s the top five places to see in Anacortes, Washington.

Travel to the Top of Mount Erie

Photo of Mt. Erie as seen from Whistle Lake. Photo Credit: Lara Dunning

If panoramic ocean views are on your bucket list, then you won’t want to miss Mount Erie. With a summit of 1,273 feet, take a scenic drive to the peak–or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike one of the six main trails, which cover almost 3,000 acres. Viewpoints at the top provide stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and the San Juan Islands. 

Stroll through Downtown Anacortes

The entrance to historic downtown Anacortes

Spend an afternoon exploring Anacortes’ historic downtown to experience pure Pacific Northwest charm. Grab a drink at Pelican coffee, lunch at Adrift, and window shop tree-lined streets speckled with art galleries, thrift shops, and boutiques. If you’re visiting between May and October, enjoy the farmer’s market every Saturday from 9AM to 2PM.  

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass Bridge as seen from Fidaglo Island

On the south side of the island, you’ll find Deception Pass State Park, the most visited state park in all of Washington state. Forested trails lead to rugged cliffs overlooking the Salish Sea. If you’re not afraid of heights, take a walk across the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, the dramatic span connecting Fidalgo and Whidbey Island.

Standing 180 feet above the Salish Sea, the bridge offers breathtaking views and is a great spot to watch the sunset. Pro-tip: Download AllTrails for hiking trails across the state park, and purchase a Washington State Park pass before entering.

Tide Pooling at Rosario Beach

Tide pools at Rosario Beach

Located within Deception Pass State Park, Rosario Beach is must see for any visitors craving a day hike near the water. The scenic shoreline offers panoramic views across Rosario Strait and is a peaceful retreat outside of town. At low tide, marine life, like sea stars, sea urchins, and snails are often left behind in the rocky pools along the shore, making Rosario Beach an ideal spot for tide

pooling.

Whale Watching in Anacortes

Anacortes Washington is a top departure spot for whale watching in the Salish Sea. Killer whales, humpbacks, grey whales, and minke whales call the waters around Anacortes home. Book a tour with Outer Islands Excursions in Skyline Marina to experience marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Biggs Orca Tsunami breaching. Photo Credit: Naturalist Katie Dunbar

The season runs from March to November, offering tours at noon in the spring and fall, and 10:30AM and 3:30PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Because of Anacortes central location, you can expect efficient tours that maximize wildlife viewing opportunities. If you’re planning a trip to northwest Washington, you won’t want to skip a whale watching tour in Anacortes.

Humpback fluking in front of Mount Baker

From hiking at state parks, to whale watching around the San Juan Islands, Anacortes delivers some of the best coastal experiences in all of Washington State.