How to Spend 72 Hours in Anacortes, Washington This Summer
Salt air, island views, and endless ways to get on the water, Anacortes is your basecamp for a maritime summer escape. Use this three-day itinerary to plan your trip, whether you’re here for sailing, wildlife, paddling, or simply soaking up the coastal charm.
Day 1: Set Sail + Waterfront Flavors
Morning: Sailing the Salish Sea
Start your trip the Anacortes way, on the water. Book a half-day sailing charter or hop aboard a guided sail.
You can book with local favorites like Anacortes Yacht Charters for charters, Anacortes Community Boating for kayak or SUP rentals or lessons.
Midday: Lunch by the Marina
Head back to town and enjoy a relaxed lunch in the sunshine.
For lunch, consider The Cabana at Cap Sante Marina for outdoor waterfront dining, Union Tavern for local brews and pub fare, or Gere-a-Deli for something casual and local.
Afternoon: Art Walk & Galleries
Explore downtown Anacortes and discover local art galleries and studios.
Spend the afternoon exploring places like Scott Milo Gallery or MoonWater Arts. Draw inspiration from events like the Anacortes Arts Festival if you are visiting in August.
Early Evening: Dinner Uptown
For dinner, head to Anacortes’ Uptown district for a different local feel. Options include Naung Mai Thai Kitchen for flavorful Thai dishes or De Asian for a mix of Asian-inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Late Evening: Craft Beverages & Sunset
Wind down with a local craft beverage before catching a golden sunset.
In the evening, enjoy a rooftop cocktail and bites at Majestic Inn & Spa Rooftop Lounge (open seasonally) or a craft beer at Anacortes Brewery before heading to Washington Park Sunset Beach for a view.
Day 2: Whale Watching + Farmers Market + Coastal Hikes
Morning: Whale Watching Adventure
Set out on a guided whale watching tour through the surrounding islands.
Book your whale watching tour with trusted operators like Island Adventures Whale Watching, Outer Island Excursions, or Blue Kingdom Whale and Wildlife Tours.
Midday: Farmers Market Finds
Browse the Anacortes Farmers Market (seasonal) for fresh produce and local goods.
While at the farmers market, look for prepared food vendors for an easy picnic, browse local produce stands, and explore handmade artisan goods.
Afternoon: Hiking with a View
Hit the trails for sparkling island views.
Top hiking options include the Mount Erie Summit Trail for panoramic island sights, Sares Head for expansive Rosario Strait views, and the peaceful Washington Park Loop Trail.
Evening: Dinner in Town
Enjoy a coastal dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.
For dinner, try Adrift Restaurant for a casual local favorite, Nonna Luisa Ristorante for Italian, or A'Town Bistro for a more elevated coastal dining experience.
Day 3: Paddle the Shoreline + Beach Time
Morning: Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Glide across calm waters by kayak or paddleboard.
Launch or rent equipment through Anacortes Kayak Tours, or head to calm spots like Bowman Bay or the Washington Park boat launch area with your own equipment.
Midday: Beach Picnic
Pack a picnic with bagel sandwiches from Good Bagels and relax at one of Anacortes’ beaches.
Perfect beach picnic spots include Rosario Beach, Sunset Beach in Washington Park, and Bowman Bay Beach.
Afternoon: More Exploring or Relaxation
Revisit your favorite spots or shop local boutiques.
Spend the afternoon wandering through Downtown Commercial Avenue, taking in the working waterfront at the south end of town or near the Marine Technology Center, or heading up to the Cap Sante Park overlook by walking or driving.
Evening: Farewell Views
Close out your trip with one last waterfront walk.
For your final evening, take in views from Cap Sante Park, the Washington Park Sunset Loop, or the ferry terminal overlook.
Bring Your Boat: Explore on Your Own Terms
Already a boater? Anacortes is one of the best launching points in the Pacific Northwest.
For easy access to open water, you can use Cap Sante Marina, Skyline Marina, or the Washington Park Boat Launch.
Island hopping is easy with destinations like Lopez Island for a laid-back vibe, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island as a central hub, and Orcas Island for quiet coves and anchoring.
Protected & Open Sailing Conditions
Choose between sheltered bays or open channels depending on your experience level.
Plan Ahead
Check tides, currents, and weather conditions before heading out.
Start Planning Your Trip
Your local island getaway. No ferry required.
Whether you’re chasing whales, paddling at sunrise, or raising a sail in the afternoon breeze, Anacortes offers a maritime summer experience you’ll want to return to year after year.