Camano: A Multi-Generational Escape Full of Local Charm
Camano Island turned out to be the perfect place to celebrate two milestones at once: my newly minted eleven-year-old’s birthday and a visit from my mom, who was in town from out of state. I wanted a getaway that felt special without requiring a complicated travel day, and Camano Island was a perfect fit.
Just two hours from Kitsap, including the beautiful ferry ride, it feels far enough away to be a true vacation, but close enough that you don’t lose a full day getting there. It turned out to be one of those ideal family destinations where everyone found something to love.
Day 1: Brunch, Beach, Art & Kayaks
We kicked off our visit by picking up pre-ordered pastries (for breakfast the next day!) from the Camano Commons Marketplace and letting the kids burn off energy on the lawn before we headed to the Cama Beach Cafe for our first meal on the island. The brunch buffet offered everything from sweet pastries to hearty breakfast favorites, enjoyed with sweeping views of Saratoga Passage. My eight-year-old happily piled his plate with bacon and cream puffs, while my eleven-year-old polished off my watermelon salad before heading back for his own second and third helpings. We all appreciated the cool dining room as outside temperatures climbed into the 80s.
After brunch, we explored Cama Beach Historical State Park. My mom and I enjoyed a leisurely walk along the shoreline while the boys kicked a soccer ball near the historic cabins before tackling the short Bluff Trail together.
That balance of “a little something for everyone” continued throughout the trip. At Matzke Fine Art and Sculpture Gallery, more than 150 sculptures tucked among wooded paths became a highlight with the kids thanks to a family game of “Guess the Price.” Later that afternoon, Camano Island Adventures delivered kayaks directly to our beachfront vacation rental, allowing the kids and me to paddle before dinner while Grandma relaxed with a book and watched from shore. We wrapped up the evening with dinner at Pub 282, marshmallows from the local IGA, and a sunset beach fire.
Day 2: Ziplines, Playgrounds & Sweet Treats
Our second day perfectly showcased why Camano works so well for families traveling with multiple generations.
My oldest son and I spent the morning soaring through the trees with Canopy Tours NW, tackling six ziplines, a suspended foot bridge, and a 47-foot final descent. Meanwhile, my younger son, who hasn’t yet reached the 65lb weight requirement, left with Grandma to create their own adventure. They bought more treats at Camano Commons, completed the library’s scavenger hunt, admired local public art, and walked to Freedom Park to enjoy the playground.
After lunch overlooking the golf course at Rockaway Bar & Grille, followed by generous scoops of ice cream back at The Marketplace, we embraced an unhurried afternoon of beachcombing, kayaking, audiobooks, coloring, and even convinced Grandma to join us for a paddle.
Before dinner, we made a quick stop by The L.A.N.E. at Arrowhead Ranch to explore its play area for younger children. The ranch was winding down after Camano’s annual Soapbox Derby, which we had just missed, but my boys still had a blast riding the mini bikes and exploring the various play spaces. With archery and workshops paused after the busy weekend, we have a great reason to plan another visit.
Dinner at Tapped Public House – our favorite meal of the trip – capped off another day filled with both adventure and relaxation for all.
Day 3: Farm Stands, Hobbit Trails & Sandy Beaches
On our final morning, we leaned into Camano’s slower pace. We picked up sweet treats at Shoebox Baking Company and fresh produce from Island Harvest Farm before heading to Iverson Spit Preserve. The Hobbit Trail delighted the kids with its hidden surprises, and the sandy beach offered sweeping views of Mount Baker, blue herons wading in the shallows, and enough driftwood forts to keep them busy for days. My boys scrambled across the logs while my mom and I strolled the shoreline, soaking in one last view before heading home.
Before leaving the island, we grabbed burgers from The Baked Cafe for the drive back to Kitsap – a delicious ending to an idyllic trip.
Camano’s greatest strength isn’t a single attraction, but rather how easy it allows you to mix adventure with downtime – something every multigenerational trip needs. We will be back!
