Crow Beach on Vashon Island in King County likely takes its name from the crows that frequently populate the Pacific Northwest shoreline. The beach sits on this rural island accessible by a 30-minute ferry ride from West Seattle's Fauntleroy terminal.
Kayaking ranks among the top activities, with Jensen Point Boathouse offering rentals, guided tours, and classes for exploring Quartermaster Harbor's protected waters. The 5-mile harbor provides gentle paddling perfect for beginners and families, with warmer water temperatures than surrounding Puget Sound. Wildlife watching from kayaks reveals harbor seals resting on logs, river otters playing in kelp beds, great blue herons stalking fish in shallows, and bald eagles perched in shoreline trees. Experienced paddlers can circumnavigate the entire island—a 35-mile journey showcasing diverse coastal environments. Beachcombing attracts those searching for agates, shells, driftwood, and occasional glass fishing floats along the shoreline. Point Robinson Lighthouse Beach nearby offers tide pooling in rocky areas where starfish, anemones, hermit crabs, and other intertidal creatures thrive during low tides. Beach walking provides miles of shoreline exploration, with driftwood forts constructed near Point Robinson Lighthouse creating playful spaces for kids. Fishing from shore yields bottomfish and occasional salmon, while crabbing during open seasons produces Dungeness crab for those with valid licenses. Maury Island Marine Park offers camping for boaters and kayakers, providing waterside sites accessible from the beach with picnic tables and basic amenities. The island's rural character and limited development create peaceful beach experiences far from Seattle's urban bustle despite the short ferry ride.
May Kitchen and Bar serves Thai curries, pad thai, fresh spring rolls, and coconut-based desserts for dinner. Gravy offers Southern-style fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, and sweet potato pie. The Ruby Brink features wood-fired pizzas, local oysters, craft cocktails, and waterfront views. The Hardware Store Restaurant provides burgers, sandwiches, salads, and Pacific Northwest comfort food in a historic building. Vashon Island Baking Company creates croissants, pastries, sandwiches, and baked goods from scratch. Sugar Shack offers daily-changing home-cooked meals, soups, and baked goods for takeout. Cafe Luna serves breakfast burritos, coffee drinks, lunch sandwiches, and casual fare. Snapdragon provides farm-to-table dinners with seasonal menus featuring local ingredients.
