Beach Camping on Cypress Island in Washington

Are you dreaming of a camping experience where the waves lull you to sleep? If so, then Pelican Beach on Cypress Island is the place to be. Tucked away in the San Juan Islands of Washington State, this secluded spot offers an opportunity to connect with nature (and escape the hustle of everyday life). Who doesn’t want that? Read on to learn how to go beach camping on Cypress Island in Washington.

Why Pelican Beach?

Pelican Beach is one of the few designated camping areas on Cypress Island. Managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources, Cypress Island is largely preserved in its natural state. Here you can see the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Cypress is primarily a pebble beach, backed by dense forest. With only a handful of campsites available, Pelican Beach never feels crowded. An ideal spot for those seeking some solitude.

Getting There

Cypress Island is accessible only by boat. (Which of course adds to its allure as a secluded getaway).

Pelican Beach can be reached by kayak, or a charter taxi, or of course your personal boat. Since we don’t kayak or have a boat we booked a spot on a water taxi with Island Express Charters. You can see their options HERE.

Its a pretty simple process. You load all your stuff onto the boat with wagons supplied by the charter. The ride is beautiful, the staff are quite friendly and they drop you right off on the beach. You have to walk up the shore and just pick a place to camp! It was effortless.

What to Expect

Pelican Beach offers just a few primitive campsites nestled along the shoreline. The sites are basic, with no amenities beyond fire rings, (a few of them have picnic tables) and a composting toilet. This simplicity is part of the charm—

You should also bring everything you will need, including fresh water and food.

One of the highlights of camping at Pelican Beach is the opportunity to sleep right on the beach. Pitching your tent on the pebbles (don’t worry, they are soft) or on a few sites right off the beach nestled in the woods. The surrounding trees offer some protection from the wind, making for a comfortable night under the stars.

Things to do

The beauty of beach camping on Cypress Island is that you can do as much or as little as you want. The island is crisscrossed with hiking trails that lead through old-growth forests and up to scenic viewpoints. A hike to Eagle Cliff, the island’s highest point, is a must for anyone looking to take in panoramic views. We packed a picnic and had lunch up there.

We brought along our paddle boards and I am so glad we did. Its a great way to see more of the islands coast and from a very different perspective. And if you’re a fan of marine life, the waters around Pelican Beach are teeming with activity. And crystal clear! Keep an eye out for seals, porpoises, and even orcas, which are occasionally spotted in the area.

One of the most magical aspects of camping on Pelican Beach are the sunsets and sunrises. I always make myself roll out of the sleeping bag at least enough to open the tent and see the horizon.

After dark, the lack of light pollution means that the night sky comes alive with stars, offering some great stargazing.

Hang out with family and friends. Bring cards and lots of stories.

Tips for a Successful Trip for beach camping on Cypress Island

  • Plan Ahead: Pelican Beach gets pretty popular, especially in summer, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Since campsites are first-come, first-served, getting there early gives you the best shot at a great spot.
  • Pack Smart: Make sure to really think about how much water + food you need. There is no water access on the island. Dry bags are a good idea to keep your gear safe from water, and make sure to bring enough layers—it can get chilly at night.
  • Check the Weather: The weather in the San Juans can be a bit unpredictable. Always check the forecast and marine conditions before you go to stay on top of any changes.
  • Respect the Wildlife: Cypress Island is home to amazing wildlife, like bald eagles, herons, and harbor seals. Be mindful of your surroundings, and follow the rules to help protect the environment.

The Experience

We were lucky to have perfect weather, a private little campsite, and great company for this trip. The kids spent hours on the paddle boards, while some of us took a dip in the chilly water. We hiked up to Eagle’s Cliff, strolled along the beaches, played cards, cooked up some tasty meals, and just enjoyed each other’s company. It was such a treat.

Its an experience I would do again as it seems to hit the sweet spot for all ages. And it gets us under the stars and outside with very little effort. And sometimes thats just what is needed!

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