They considered the islands to be sacred places. They still are, for reasons which can only be understood while visiting the quiet bays and secluded islands of this tranquil, life-restoring, corner of the nation. Washington state car ferries bring visitors to the four largest islands from Anacortes, and from the Victoria, B.C area. Sixty miles north of Seattle, via Interstate 5, State Route 20 leads west to Anacortes. The ferry terminal is on a point of land beyond the town.
Car ferries leave here on a regular daily schedule, with ferries added during summer months.
In addition to the state ferry system, private operators have operate ferries between the mainland and the islands. All ferries do not stop at all of the islands. Once a day, more often during summer months, the ferry continues to Sidney on Vancouver Island, permitting travelers to drive to Victoria and points north on Vancouver Island. The first ferry leaves Anacortes at 6 a.m. with at least nine sailings during the day. The ferries cruise to the four developed islands, with some exceptions when the ferries don't land at them all.