Washington Cities and Towns Ideal for a Summer Getaway

Many communities in Washington stand out as excellent options for those seeking a summer escape. With scenic beaches, stunning hiking destinations, and charming cities, Washington’s warm summer weather opens the door to all kinds of outdoor fun. Let’s look at some of the leading destinations in Washington that are ideal for your next summer getaway.

Near the Canada’s border, Bellingham sits along Bellingham Bay in northwestern Washington. Abundant in the dramatic coastal scenery for which Washington is famous, Bellingham boasts flourishing evergreen forests and lush protected natural environments. Visitors can spend a warm summer day fishing or whale-watching along the coast or head to Whatcom Falls Park. The large, forested park is known for its immaculate walking trails and four sets of waterfalls.

Port Ludlow, a small waterfront resort community along the Puget Sound, sees its population swell with visitors every summer who visit marinas on the water and large nearby lakes. Also, a haven for golf enthusiasts, Port Ludlow houses an 18-hole championship golf course that overlooks Ludlow Bay and the distant mountains. For an excellent hike, head to Ludlow Falls and enjoy the area’s natural splendor.

Seattle is a year-round destination known for its famous coffee, music, delectable restaurants, and diverse art scene. While it is a big city—Washington’s largest—and boasts an urban atmosphere, this city along the Puget Sound features incredible public parks, breathtaking coastal views, and a stunning mountainous backdrop. During the summer, Seattle’s beaches fill up with visitors. Hotspots such as Alki Beach Park and Discovery Park have lovely trails and sandy shores ideal for cooling off by the water. 

Ocean Shores is a perfect encapsulation of the appeal of Washington’s coast. Its main draw is its expansive coastline, where visitors can swim, boat, fish, and experience the best ocean scenery Washington has to offer. Its wide and open beaches include Ocean City State Park and Damon Point, both of which present excellent destinations for seaside hikes and wildlife spotting. Furthermore, Ocean Shores has high-quality golf courses nearby and delicious local restaurants. 

Anacortes is a pleasant community steeped in natural splendor. Encompassed by bays and winding waterways, Anacortes serves as a popular ferry docking point, providing convenient access to other notable locations such as the San Juan Islands. Anacortes has much for nature enthusiasts to appreciate. Washington Park is a large 220-acre park with picturesque hiking trails, a boat launch, and picnic areas. Visitors also love hiking through Mount Erie, where they can enjoy remarkable vistas of the gorgeous landscape enveloping Anacortes.

Freeland is a pleasant community on Whidbey Island in the Puget Sound. A sparsely populated place, Freeland is optimal for summer vacations away from the larger crowds in other regions of the state. Surrounded by wineries, nature preserves, and scenic beaches, this location is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Also, Double Bluff Beach and Mutiny Bay Beach are popular destinations for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. And Freeland’s main town area may be small, but it exudes charm with its local businesses and eateries that serve fresh seafood catches.