photo: Diane Penland

Camano Island – Welcome to The Easy Island

In the early 20th century, Camano Island became something of an artist’s haven. Creators across a wide spectrum of media once flocked to a 200-acre artistic commune on the island to live collaboratively and sell their work worldwide. That history directly shaped the community you’ll find today, awash with artists and creative thinkers. Once a year, the island holds a studio tour and invites the public into the creative process, but all year round, you can visit galleries and take in public displays.

Even the island’s most well-known annual event, the Northwest Glass Quest, can’t help but involve creative flair. Each February, treasure hunters flock to Camano to explore local parks and businesses while hunting for clues, hoping to take home a large custom handblown glass ball. Participants are offered specific ideas for how to engage more deeply with the local community and achieve the special status of “Kind Quester.”

The resident creative crowd is not only visual artists, this is also a place for writers, musicians, filmmakers, photographers, and performers of all stripes. The island speaks for itself with a popular area podcast and is home to a rare radio theatre. Performing artists find it an ideal home base among a secluded creative community but with 24-hour access to mainland venues. Because Camano can be reached at any time of day by a bridge, it has become known as The Easy Island.

Virtual Visitor Kiosks on Camano Island

These outdoor kiosks provide printed material such as maps, brochures, guides, and a computerized tourism information terminal.

Whether seeking indulgent shopping experiences, scenic beach walks, “delicious local” food, or a deep wellness experience, The Easy Island has you covered.