Anacortes isn’t loud or super trendy, and that’s its charm. It’s full of misty coastal hikes, antique shops, a charming downtown, quaint local diners, and the best of the PNW’s seafood. I’ve been to Anacortes three times now, and each visit offers something new. If you’re already in Washington, Anacortes is the perfect weekend getaway. Add on to your trip with a visit to Bellingham or Friday Harbor. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this seaside gem.
Things to Know Before You Visit
Climate: Anacortes has a temperate maritime climate, which means mild summers and cool, damp winters. Summer highs average in the mid-70s°F. While winter days rarely dip below 35°F. Foggy mornings are common year-round. Coastal breezes can bring a chill even on sunny days, so always pack light layers.
Best time to go: Summer (June through September) is the best time to visit Anacortes. You’ll get the most sunshine, longer daylight hours, and better ferry and hiking conditions. Expect mild weather, with daytime temps in the 60s and 70s, perfect for coastal hikes and patio dining. Spring and fall can be beautiful too—just pack for cooler, wetter weather.
Language: English is the predominant language.
Money: US Dollar ($USD). Most businesses accept cash and all major credit cards.
How to Get to Anacortes
🚗 Car Rental: Easily rent a car from DiscoverCars and get 70% off at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Head north on I-5 to Highway 20, then west until you reach Anacortes.
✈️ Airport: The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA). Bellingham International (BLI) is a closer option for regional flights.
Where to Stay in Anacortes
Majestic Inn & Spa is a historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Anacortes. Rooms blend modern comfort with vintage charm, and the on-site spa offers massages, facials, and wellness treatments. The rooftop bar and restaurant boast sweeping views of the marina and islands, making it a favorite for sunset cocktails. You’re walking distance to restaurants, galleries, and the ferry terminal, which makes it ideal if you’re not traveling by car.
Prefer something more local and low-key? I stayed at this Airbnb in a quiet residential neighborhood and loved it. It’s close to Commercial Avenue but far enough away for a peaceful night’s sleep. With a full kitchen, washer/dryer, and a little backyard seating area, it felt like a true home base. Parking was easy and communication with the host was great.
Where to Eat in Anacortes
Breakfast
The Donut House
📍 2719 Commercial Ave
🕘 Daily, 5 AM – 2 PM
💲 Budget
This no-frills, old-school spot is a must-stop for fresh donuts and coffee. Their maple bars and apple fritters are local legends.
Dad’s Diner
📍 906 Commercial Ave
🕘 Daily, 7 AM – 2 PM
💲 Moderate
Dad’s Diner is a comfort food haven serving hearty breakfasts and classic American fare. The biscuits and gravy are always a hit.
Calico Cupboard Cafe
📍 901 Commercial Ave
🕘 Daily, 8 AM – 3 PM
💲 Moderate
A cozy favorite for breakfast and lunch, Calico Cupboard is known for massive cinnamon rolls, fresh-baked bread, and a menu full of homestyle options.
Cosmic Veggies
📍 3300 Commercial Ave
🕘 Monday–Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM (Closed Sundays)
💲 Moderate
This plant-based cafe serves up organic smoothies, juices, and hearty bowls. Great for a healthy lunch or post-hike refuel.
Lunch/Dinner
Anthony’s at Cap Sante Marina
📍 1207 Q Ave
🕘 Daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
💲 Moderate to High
Seafood with a view? Anthony’s is your go-to for fresh-caught fare right on the marina. The salmon and halibut are always excellent.
Adrift
📍 510 Commercial Ave
🕘 Daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
💲 Moderate
Adrift focuses on locally sourced ingredients and has a cozy atmosphere that works for lunch or dinner. Don’t skip the chowder.
A’Town Bistro
📍 418 Commercial Ave
🕘 Wednesday–Sunday, 5 PM – 9 PM (Closed Monday–Tuesday)
💲 Moderate to High
A bit more upscale but still laid-back, A’Town is perfect for date night or an indulgent burger after a long day outdoors.
Rockfish Grill
📍 320 Commercial Ave
🕘 Daily, 11:30 AM – 9 PM
💲 Moderate
Live music, craft beer, and dependable pub fare make Rockfish a fun, casual dinner spot with a community vibe.
Bistro & Bar at the Majestic Inn & Spa
📍 2030 Skyline Way
🕘 Wednesday–Sunday, 4 PM – 9 PM (Closed Monday–Tuesday)
💲 High
This rooftop bar at the Majestic Inn & Spa offers stunning views, craft mocktails, and a modern seafood menu, ideal for golden hour or a celebratory dinner.
Best Hikes
Sharpe Park Loop
Distance: 2.3 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 282 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Kid-Friendly: Yes
This forested trail offers peekaboo water views, quiet woods, and vibrant moss-covered trees. Great for a peaceful morning walk.
Deception Pass: Lighthouse Point Trail
Distance: 2.6 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 278 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass Required: Discover Pass
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Kid-Friendly: Yes
With coastal cliffs, dense woods, and bridge views, this iconic trail is a must. Go at low tide to explore tidepools near the shore.
North Beach Trail
Distance: 2.0 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 150 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Pass Required: Discover Pass
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Yes
A breezy coastal trail near Deception Pass with driftwood, tidepools, and a great beach at the end—especially beautiful at sunset.
Rotary Marina Walkway & Cap Sante Loop
Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 100 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Start at the marina and follow the paved waterfront path around the loop. Great for a casual morning stroll or sunset views. It overlooks the harbor and islands. You can also drive to the viewpoint.
SeaFarer’s Marina Walkway
Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Yes
A flat, accessible path that runs along the waterfront with benches, harbor views, and sailboats bobbing in the distance.
Mount Erie Trail
Distance: 3.3 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,108 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Kid-Friendly: Older kids only
Panoramic views from the summit make this climb totally worth it. You can also drive to the top if you’re short on time.
Heart Lake to Sugarloaf
Distance: 2.9 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 843 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Older kids
Wooded, well-maintained trails lead to one of the best overlooks in the area.
Whistle Lake Loop
Distance: 4.0 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 318 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Circles a peaceful lake popular for summer swimming. Great in the early morning for wildlife sightings.
Cranberry Lake Trail
Distance: 1.9 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 124 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Pass Required: Discover Pass
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Flat and shaded, this family-friendly trail is ideal for birdwatching and quick forest strolls.
Kiket Trail
Distance: 3.1 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Pass Required: None
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Kid-Friendly: Yes
A loop trail that crosses over a tombolo (natural land bridge) to Kiket Island, offering forested paths and Puget Sound views.
Visiting more of Washington? Don’t miss my Friday Harbor Day Trip Guide and my Bellingham Weekend Guide for more small-town coastal escapes.
