This content is intended for adults 21+ in Washington State.

Scenic view of ferries docked at Bainbridge Island, surrounded by lush forests on a clear day. — Life in Anacortes moves with the water — ferry schedules included.

The Anacortes Ferry Terminal is the gateway to the San Juan Islands — one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the country. Whether you’re heading to Friday Harbor for a weekend, Lopez Island for a bike trip, or Orcas Island for hiking Mount Constitution, your journey almost always starts with a drive down Highway 20 and a wait at the Anacortes ferry dock.

We’re located just off Highway 20 near Sharpes Corner — a natural stop for many travelers heading to or from the ferry. Over the years, our team has answered a lot of “hey, what should I know before the ferry?” questions from customers, so we put together this local guide.

Key Takeaways

The Anacortes Ferry Terminal serves 4 main islands: Lopez, Shaw, Orcas, and San Juan
Reservations are strongly recommended during summer, holidays, and weekends
Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before your sailing (60+ minutes during busy season)
Cannabis is legal to purchase in Washington but cannot be consumed on ferries
Northwind Cannabis is a convenient last stop on Highway 20 before you catch the ferry

Serene view of a lighthouse at sunset on San Juan Island, WA, ideal for coastal scenery lovers.

Where the Anacortes Ferry Goes

Washington State Ferries operates year-round service from Anacortes to the San Juan Islands. The main routes serve:

Lopez Island — the flattest island, popular for cycling and quiet farm stays
Shaw Island — the smallest and most private, no lodging available
Orcas Island — the largest, home to Moran State Park, Mount Constitution, and the town of Eastsound
San Juan Island — the busiest, includes Friday Harbor and the famous whale-watching areas

How to Plan Your Ferry Trip

Book Your Reservation Early

During summer (May through September), holidays, and most weekends year-round, vehicle reservations fill up fast. Book at wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.

Reservations open in three release windows: 2 months, 2 weeks, and 2 days before your sailing
Walk-on passengers don’t need reservations, only vehicles
If you miss a reservation window, standby is available but not guaranteed

Check the Sailing Schedule

Ferry schedules change seasonally. Always double-check the day before your trip. WSDOT also has a real-time vessel tracker if you want to see delays.

Arrival Time Matters

Washington State Ferries requires you to be in the vehicle line at least 30 minutes before your sailing. During busy season, plan for 60+ minutes. Miss your window and you lose your reservation and go to standby.

Plan for Wait Times

The Anacortes terminal has a small waiting area, restrooms, and vending machines — but limited food options. Pack snacks or grab something before you arrive.

A serene view of orcas swimming in Telegraph Cove, BC, with scenic mountainous background.

Making Highway 20 Work for You

If you’re driving to the ferry, you’re going to pass right by us. Here’s how locals build a great Anacortes ferry day:

60-90 minutes before your sailing:

Fuel up at Samcor Fuel & Tobacco on Highway 20 (right next to Northwind Cannabis)
Grab snacks or last-minute travel items
Make any stops you need — because once you’re on the island, options are limited

30-45 minutes before your sailing:

Head to the terminal, get in the vehicle line
Use the terminal restroom
Wait, relax, take in the water views

On the ferry:

Head to the passenger deck — most travelers get out of their vehicle
Grab a coffee from the onboard galley
Enjoy one of the most scenic ferry rides in the country

Tranquil sunset view over the Washington State coastline, capturing the calm sea and silhouetted trees.

What to Bring on the Ferry

Whether you’re an island first-timer or a seasoned Salish Sea traveler, here’s what locals always recommend packing:

Layers — the ferry deck gets windy and cold, even in July
Cash — some island vendors are cash-only
Reusable water bottle — refill at the terminal
Camera or phone — the views on the crossing are incredible; keep an eye out for orcas, seals, and eagles
Snacks — island prices are higher and options limited, especially on Lopez and Shaw
Bike or kayak — if you’re planning to explore, ferries accommodate both
Motion sickness remedies — usually calm, but occasionally rough

What NOT to Bring on the Ferry

This is where a lot of first-time travelers get confused, especially about cannabis. Here’s the honest reality:

Cannabis on Washington State Ferries

Cannabis cannot be consumed on ferries. Washington State Ferries are considered public spaces under state law, and consuming cannabis in public — including on ferries, in vehicles, or in terminals — is illegal. Fines can be significant.

You can transport sealed cannabis products in your vehicle or luggage between islands within Washington State. Keep them:

Sealed in original packaging
Out of the driver’s reach if in a vehicle
Never open or consume while on the ferry, in the terminal, or in the vehicle line

Popular Things to Do on Each Island

If you’re planning your first visit, here’s a quick local overview:

San Juan Island

Friday Harbor — the main town, restaurants, shops, whale museum
Lime Kiln Point State Park — one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world
English Camp and American Camp — historic Pig War sites
San Juan Island Sculpture Park — outdoor art walk

Orcas Island

Mount Constitution — highest point in the San Juans, incredible views from the observation tower
Moran State Park — hiking, lakes, and camping
Eastsound — main town with restaurants and shops
Doe Bay Resort — hot tubs and yoga retreats

Lopez Island

Lopez Village — small, quiet, walkable
Spencer Spit State Park — sandy beaches
Cycling — Lopez is famously bike-friendly (drivers wave at you here)

Shaw Island

Mostly private, but the Historical Museum and Shaw General Store are worth a stop if you’re a completionist

Explore the serene countryside with this picturesque rural road flanked by verdant farmland and distant horizons.

Ferry Day Timing Tips from Locals

A few final things we’ve learned over the years:

First morning sailings are usually the calmest and least crowded
Sunday afternoon returns are the busiest — reservations essential
Foggy mornings can cause delays or cancellations — build in flexibility
Weekday sailings are dramatically quieter than weekend sailings
Standby lines can be long during summer — locals often skip a sailing and enjoy Anacortes waterfront for a few hours instead

Northwind Cannabis: Your Highway 20 Stop

We’re a natural fit into a lot of San Juan Islands trips — whether you’re on your way out or coming back. Some notes for cannabis-curious travelers:

Before your ferry:

Stop in on your way to the terminal for products to enjoy legally at your island rental
Grab travel-friendly options like edibles or pre-rolls in original sealed packaging
Remember: cannabis is for private residences only — no ferry, no vehicle, no public consumption

Coming back from the islands:

Perfect stop before heading home to Oak Harbor, Mount Vernon, or south on I-5
Enjoy 25% off online orders through our Jane-powered menu
Join our loyalty program while you’re here for future perks

Hours: Open every day 8am to 10pm.

Address: 14130 Smeyes Run Drive, Suite 100, Anacortes, WA 98221 — just off Highway 20 near Sharpes Corner.

Woman in denim jacket walking on a ferry deck, holding a water bottle, on a cloudy day.

FAQ: Anacortes Ferry Trips

How early should I arrive at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal?
Washington State Ferries requires you to be in line at least 30 minutes before your sailing. During summer and holiday weekends, plan for 60+ minutes.

Do I need a reservation for the San Juan Islands ferry?
Vehicle reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer and weekends. Walk-on passengers don’t need reservations. Book at wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.

How long is the ferry ride from Anacortes to the San Juan Islands?
Depending on the island, sailings range from about 40 minutes (Lopez) to about 2 hours (San Juan Island via all stops).

Can I bring cannabis on the ferry?
You can transport sealed cannabis in your vehicle or luggage between Washington islands, but you cannot consume it on the ferry, in the terminal, or in public.

Is there food on the ferry?
Yes, there’s a small galley on most vessels serving coffee, snacks, and simple meals. Options are limited — many travelers bring their own food.

Is the Anacortes Ferry Terminal walkable from town?
The terminal is about 3 miles from downtown Anacortes. Most travelers drive. There’s a public parking area if you’re walking on as a foot passenger.

Where can I get cannabis before or after my ferry trip?
Northwind Cannabis is located on Highway 20 near Sharpes Corner, on your route to and from the terminal. Open 8am-10pm daily.

Enjoy Your Islands Trip

The San Juan Islands are one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re heading out for a day, a weekend, or a full vacation, taking the ferry from Anacortes is genuinely part of the experience.

Safe travels — and if you’re passing through Anacortes on your way, stop in and say hi.

📍 14130 Smeyes Run Drive, Suite 100, Anacortes, WA 98221
📞 (360) 293-0786
🕐 Open 8am-10pm, 7 days a week

Must be 21+ with valid ID. Cannabis products are for adult use only. Please follow Washington State cannabis laws and consume responsibly. This content is informational, not legal advice.