Jan 19, 2025
Written By: J.Couch
If you’re looking for a classic Pacific Northwest adventure, few experiences compare to taking a ferry to Vashon Island. Just a short ride from Seattle, this charming island offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and quirky art. None more notable than the towering wooden troll, Oscar the Bird King. It was a beautiful, cold morning in the Pacific Northwest. A light frost covered the cars, and the air was cool and brisk, perfect weather for a ferry ride and a day of exploration on Vashon Island. We planned to visit one of the five trolls in the region and explore some small shops.
The trip to Vashon begins at Fauntleroy Terminal in West Seattle, where Washington State Ferries operates a scenic route across Puget Sound. The Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth ferry has been a vital transportation link for decades, connecting island residents with the mainland. Before modern ferries, steamboats known as the Mosquito Fleet provided transport in the early 20th century. Today, the ferry ride takes just about 20 minutes, offering passengers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and sometimes even a glimpse of orcas or seals in the water.
We arrived early at the Fauntleroy ferry terminal to get in line and wait. Since it was our first time taking the ferry to Vashon, we wanted to be prepared. There is a fee for vehicles and one driver, with an additional charge per passenger. Payment booths are available when driving up, but I think that tickets can also be purchased online. When we reached the booth, the attendant explained that passengers paid for the trip to Vashon Island, but the return ride was free. She also mentioned alternative routes back, either through Port Orchard or south to Point Defiance in Tacoma. We planned to return via Fauntleroy. After a brief wait in line, we watched as the ferry arrived and unloaded the cars coming over from Vashon.
Stepping off the ferry, you’ll quickly notice that Vashon has a unique, laid-back atmosphere. Known for its artistic community, organic farms, and quiet roads, the island is a favorite getaway for city dwellers seeking a break from urban life. The island’s history includes Native American habitation, early white settlers in the mid-1800s, and even a stint as a strawberry farming hub before World War II.
One of Vashon’s newest and most intriguing attractions is Oscar the Bird King, a giant wooden troll created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. As part of his Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King project, He was unveiled in 2023, joining a series of similar trolls across the region. Made from reclaimed wood, Oscar stands tall with an outstretched hand, symbolizing a connection between nature, mythology, and community.
Oscar can be found near Point Robinson Park, a beautiful spot known for its historic lighthouse and beach access. Seeing him is like walking into a storybook, his detailed wooden features and expressive face make him mesmerizing. He is situated on a wooden throne in the trees just down the trail from the parking lot. Like Dambo’s other trolls, Oscar embodies environmental stewardship, encouraging visitors to respect and protect nature.
We walked down to look at the lighthouse and then took a short walk out on the beach. It was a beautiful day and a great walk on the beach, the view of the mountain in the distance was amazing. The Point Robinson Lighthouse was built in 1915 and this picturesque lighthouse is a must-see.
From there we made our way back to the town of Vashon, the island’s charming downtown area. The streets are lined with an eclectic mix of local shops, art galleries, and cafés, each with its unique character. We strolled through a few art galleries, which showcase works from local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople. The island has a thriving artistic community, and many of the pieces reflected the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, from misty mountain landscapes to intricate glasswork inspired by the sea. After admiring the art, we wandered into a few boutique shops, filled with handcrafted goods, vintage finds, and locally made products. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly shopkeepers made browsing a delightful experience. The downtown may be small, but it’s full of character and creativity, making it the perfect stop before heading out to see Oscar the Bird King and explore more of the island’s natural beauty.
A ferry ride to Vashon Island is more than just a trip, it’s an experience filled with history, scenic beauty, and artistic wonder. Whether you’re enjoying the peaceful ride, wandering through forests, or standing in awe of Oscar the Bird King, Vashon offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. So, next time you’re looking for an easy and memorable day trip, hop on the ferry and set sail for a day of adventure!
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
