Camano Island Map

Description: This map shows towns, villages, streets, roads, golf courses, lakes, rivers, buildings, trails, and parks on Camano Island.

Description: This map shows where Camano Island is located on the Washington State Map.

Description: This map shows roads, beaches, picnic areas, campsites, hiking, marinas, docks, kayak camp sites, off-leash dog parks and beaches, visitor information centers, musesums, cabins, golf courses, charging stations, parks, public spaces on Whidbey Island and Camano Island.

Other Maps of Camano Island

Camano Island is a large island located in Island County, Washington, in the northwestern part of the state. The island is situated in Puget Sound, between the mainland and Whidbey Island to the west. Unlike most islands in the region, Camano Island is accessible by bridge rather than ferry, connected to the mainland via State Route 532 over the Stillaguamish River delta. The island has a population of approximately 17,000 residents and is known for its rural character, beaches, and residential communities.

Geography

Camano Island covers approximately 40 square miles of land area, making it one of the larger islands in Puget Sound. The island stretches roughly 15 miles in length from north to south and varies in width from 2 to 5 miles. The topography consists of gently rolling hills with elevations rarely exceeding 300 feet. The western shore faces Saratoga Passage, which separates it from Whidbey Island, while the eastern shore overlooks Port Susan and Davis Slough.

The island features numerous beaches and parks along its coastline. Camano Island State Park, located on the southwest shore, encompasses 244 acres and offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and beach access. The park provides views across Saratoga Passage to Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains beyond.

History and Development

The island was originally inhabited by Coast Salish peoples. Spanish explorer Francisco de Eliza named the island "Isla de Camano" in 1790, possibly after Jacinto Caamaño, a fellow Spanish naval officer. American and European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, establishing logging operations and farms. For many decades, the island remained relatively isolated and rural.

The construction of a bridge connecting Camano Island to the mainland in 1909 significantly improved access. The original bridge was replaced several times, with the current bridge structure built in the 1960s. This improved accessibility led to increased residential development, particularly from the 1970s onward. Despite growth, the island has maintained much of its rural character, with no incorporated cities and governance provided by Island County.

Communities and Economy

Camano Island consists of several unincorporated communities, including Camano, Camano City, and Arrowhead Beach. The island's economy is largely residential, with many residents commuting to nearby cities for employment. Small businesses, including shops, restaurants, and services, are scattered throughout the island. Tourism contributes to the local economy, particularly during summer months when visitors come for beach activities, vacation rentals, and natural scenery.

The island has a strong sense of community, with local organizations hosting various events throughout the year. Educational facilities include several elementary schools, with students attending middle and high schools on the mainland or Whidbey Island.

Communities on Camano Island

Main sights in Camano Island

How to Get to Camano Island

Camano Island is located in Puget Sound, Washington State, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Here are the main ways to reach the island:

By Car

From Seattle (approximately 1 hour):

• Take I-5 North for about 45 miles
• Take Exit 212 for SR-532 West toward Camano Island/Stanwood
• Follow SR-532 West for about 6 miles
• Cross the Camano Gateway Bridge onto the island

From Everett (approximately 30 minutes):

• Take I-5 North to Exit 212
• Follow SR-532 West to Camano Island

From Vancouver, BC (approximately 3 hours):

• Cross the border at Peace Arch or Pacific Highway
• Take I-5 South to Exit 212
• Follow SR-532 West to Camano Island

By Public Transportation

Limited public transit options:

• Island Transit operates some bus routes on the island
• Most visitors need a car to explore the island effectively
• Consider ride-sharing services from nearby cities

By Air

Nearest airports:

• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - about 1.5 hours by car
• Bellingham International Airport - about 1 hour by car
• Paine Field (Everett) - about 45 minutes by car

Important Notes

• The island is accessible only by the SR-532 bridge
• No ferry service to Camano Island
• Plan for potential bridge traffic during peak hours
• Bring cash for some local businesses and parking areas

References