Is Vashon Island safe?
Gabriel Cooper
Updated on March 24, 2026
Is Vashon Island safe?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Vashon is 1 in 55. Based on FBI crime data, Vashon is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Washington, Vashon has a crime rate that is higher than 53% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes.
Is there anything to do on Vashon Island?
From hiking to delicious restaurants, you’ll find plenty of things to do on Vashon Island during your time there. You can easily take a ferry to get to Vashon for a day trip from Seattle or Seattle weekend trip. There are many pretty beaches, forests, hiking trails, breweries, galleries, parks, and much more.
Do you need a car on Vashon Island?
Fortunately, a Vashon Island visit does not require a car which does not mean that driving on the Island is impractical and can be a bit easier to navigate the long ferry lines and wait times.
Does Vashon Island have a downtown?
Vashon Island is so eclectic. Enjoy a small-town experience with a cute walkable downtown. The island has so many wide-open spaces and lovely beaches, so plan for some outdoor time.
Whats it like to live on Vashon Island?
It is very family friendly, there are many parks and venues that offer family activities. Vashon tends to close down early and by 9PM on most days there is not much to do in the arena of entertainment. Vashon is a small rural island, a ferry ride away from Seattle. I like the warmth of the people.
Is Vashon Island a good place to retire?
Vashon is in King County and is one of the best places to live in Washington. Living in Vashon offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Vashon there are a lot of parks. Many retirees live in Vashon and residents tend to lean conservative.
Is Vashon Island Expensive?
Vashon’s housing expenses are 42% higher than the national average and the utility prices are 23% higher than the national average. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 33% higher than the national average. Vashon has grocery prices that are 27% higher than the national average.
Can you swim on Vashon Island?
Great swimming locations and boat access. Boat launch and moorage facilities as wells as a picnic area with a playground area. Restroom and showers are available.
Can you walk Vashon Island?
Yes! About a 20 minute drive from downtown you can catch a ferry in your car. Also, there is a foot ferry that goes directly from downtown to Vashon Island if you want to walk everywhere or take public transportation, is a great option. If you want to really experience Vashon Island, I would say yes.
Are there bears on Vashon Island?
“Bears on Vashon aren’t rare but unusual,” Kenz said, explaining that they sometimes swim to Vashon from the Kitsap Peninsula. The last time Kenz remembers a bear on Vashon was in 2008 when a black bear became a concern by spending time near schools.
Are there coyotes on Vashon Island?
Just a few years ago, coyotes were a rare sight on the island, but now they are common, with the Vashon Nature Center estimating there are some 45 of the animals traveling the island, eating mostly rodents, but also livestock and people’s pets.
What is living on Vashon Island like?