When Seattle city life starts feeling a little stuffy, you know it’s time to plan a weekend away from all the noise. If you’re itching to get outdoors and in need of a little change in scenery, catch a short ferry ride over to a little slice of serenity better known as Vashon Island. After 20 minutes, you’ll be docked and ready for a slow-paced weekend with all the hype of island life. Check out our suggestions below for a weekend getaway to relaxation station. 

Stay at The Lodges on Vashon

The Lodges on Vashon offer chic, modern accommodations for you to get cozy with your loved one, share a weekend away with friends or even embark on a solo adventure. Each unit features an open floor plan with upscale amenities begging you to unwind such as deep soaking tubs, oversized showers with radiant floor heating, and thoughtful patios perfect for reading or taking a cat nap. Don’t miss the opportunity to curl up next to the outdoor fireplace in the pavilion – grab a glass of wine and enjoy your nightcap under the stars, breathing in that fresh island air. Don’t forget to bring your furry sidekick along – the Lodges are dog-friendly, and equipped to cater to your pooch too!

Eat at May’s Kitchen

If you love Thai food, you’re going to thank me later – dinner at May’s Kitchen in the heart of Vashon is not to be missed (although you might just miss the front door if you’re not careful). The owners were tired of having the same dining experience at every American Thai restaurant they visited, and opened up May’s to provide something a little more authentic. The mahogany space is built from a 150 year-old home that originated in Thailand, and all of the interior decor from the booths, to the curtains, and chandeliers hails from Thailand too. Anything on the menu is sure to be delicious, but you won’t want to miss the flavorful Phad Thai, which is assembled at the table with fresh ingredients like ground peanuts, banana tree blossoms, and noodles wrapped in a banana leaf and squeezed with fresh lime wedges. Wash it down with a glass of locally crafted Dragon Head cider, featured on tap at May’s.

Play at Point Robinson Beach & Lighthouse

You can’t visit Vashon without hitting one of the parks or nature trails that run throughout the island, including the stretching beach and lighthouse at Point Robinson Park. On a clear day, you might walk along the sandy beach admiring all of the driftwood and seashells washed ashore and catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier. For a real beachfront treat, you can also rent out the Keeper’s Quarters in the lighthouse by the night or by the week!