The name "Anacortes" is an adaptation of the name of Anne Curtis Bowman, who was the wife of early Fidalgo Island settler Amos Bowman. Enough history, that's not what this page is about after all.
There's a few reasons you should add the maritime community of Anacortes to your destination list. For a day trip you'll find quirky island shops, fine dining, casual eats, coastal strolls, and a ferry connections to the other San Juan islands and Vancouver BC. Near by you also have camping at another top spot of ours in the Deception Pass State Park. There are also plenty of weekend B&B's, Inn's, Resorts, and RV Campgrounds to extend your stay a day or two.
Below I'll link up the Anacortes website and you'll also find a host of local events worth checking out including their Waterfront Festival, Birding Events, Car Shows, and Boat Show. The boats are actually a huge draw for all sorts of people. The Anacortes harbor is smack dab in the middle of Seattle and Vancouver BC making it a hot spot for all sorts of water travelers. For the rest of us that opens up a cool experience of just walking up and down the docks and day dreaming a bit.
While in the area I'd suggest at least two locations that are must-go's. First try to fit in a meal at Anthony's At Cap Sante for fantastic seafood and gorgeous views of the marina right on the water. Almost every seat in the restaurant offers a view of the boats coming and going. To be clear here, this is not a sponsored post in any way shape or form, we just love their food. (Although if you're reading this Anthony's we'd love to work with you! Ha ha, you're restaurants are the best!)
Moving on... the second place you should make time to see is Cap Sante lookout. It's parking lot on top of the giant rock in the video, and the backdrop to your view if you happen to have a meal at Anthony's. With almost 360 views you'll get a fresh angle of the marina, more islands, and the giant tanker ships usually anchored in the deeper water. This is a great little sunset destination with some short "goat paths" to wander around on.
Here are a few helpful links to get you started. Be sure to share your adventures on our Facebook Group.
Happy Exploring!
