One of the best things about living in Washington is the diverse landscapes we have right in our backyards. Here, it’s possible to go off the grid in the mountains, dine on fresh farm-to-table cuisine grown in our rural communities, catch an award-winning performance in a major city, or escape to an island for a dreamy day trip. And if you happen to be spending time on the west side of the state, don’t miss an opportunity to check out Vashon Island.

Vashon Island is just a short 20-minute ferry ride from West Seattle's Fauntleroy terminal. It's also accessible by ferry from Tacoma.
cmh2315fl / Flickr
The Point Robinson Lighthouse is one of several iconic landmarks in the area. The Vashon Maury Island Heritage Museum is a great spot to visit to learn more about the local history.
When you've departed the ferry, head to a spot like Cafe Luna if you're craving a coffee or some lunch.
Yundi Z / Google
The sandwiches, salads, and baked goods are out of this world.
You can enjoy your lunch on-site, but we highly recommend getting it to-go so you can enjoy the great outdoors.
Cafe Luna Vashon / Facebook
Even on a gloomy day, Vashon has plenty of perfect picnic spots.
The island has several public beaches and beach parks that are easy to access.
Terri Stewart / Flickr
You won't find a better lunch view than this.
Vashon has several great spots for wine tasting and a couple of great breweries.... but Nashi Orchards has the best libations and scenery, hands down.
Nashi Orchards Tasting Room, 16906 107th Ave SW, Vashon, WA 98070, USA
Jessica Wick
This award-winning business is open for tastings, picnics, and relaxing every Saturday and Sunday from noon until 5 PM. But if you're visiting during the week, they'll open by appointment.
If you notice the tasting room has an artsy vibe, that's no accident—this was once the studio of a local artist.
Jessica Wick
Natural light illuminates the space, and the walls are adorned with beautiful art.

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Of course, on a warm sunny day, the best place to be is the patio.
Jessica Wick
Get a cider tasting for the full experience (they have a non-alcoholic cider, too, and it's phenomenal) or treat yourself to a glass pour or a bottle. You're welcome to bring your own food, nut Nashi does sell some irresistible Japanese snacks.
The menu consists of both cider (made from apples) and perry (made from pears), with a focus on Asian and European pears.
Jessica Wick
Even if you don't think you're a fan of hard cider, you may want to reconsider after you taste here. They've got everything from a light, Prosecco-like perry to a hearty tap cider you'd almost swear was an ice cold beer. The cider is available at some retail locations in the area, but visiting the tasting room is the best way to find your new favorite. Plus, if you're lucky, you can interact with the adorable sheep on the property.
Tasting cider can really work up an appetite, so make sure to get some dinner before you catch the ferry back to the mainland.
Vashon, Washington / Google
The Ruby Brink is a butcher and restaurant with some of the best food on the island, especially if you love meat and noodle dishes.
Here, you'll find an array of meat-based entrees, local produce, and at least one meat and noodle dish of the day.
The Ruby Brink / Facebook
There's also at least one vegetarian option on the menu for anyone who prefers to skip the meat.
For a small island, Vashon has a pretty great restaurant selection, and that includes the best Thai food ever.
May Kitchen + Bar / Facebook
You may want to make your reservation at May Kitchen in advance if you choose to go that route.
May Kitchen has a large selection of authentic Thai entrees, but you can't go wrong with the Pad Thai.
Jessica Wick
The Pad Thai is prepared tableside, so you can control how sweet and spicy it is.
If you can time your ferry ride back for sunset or golden hour, you won't be disappointed.
Jessica Wick
The ferry terminal has stellar sunset views all year long, and its a perfect way to end a wonderful day on the island.

Have you been to Vashon Island lately? Learn more about what Nashi Orchards has been up to and how they came to be on their website.

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Nashi Orchards Tasting Room, 16906 107th Ave SW, Vashon, WA 98070, USA
Vashon Island, Vashon, WA 98070, USA