Crow Beach, Vashon Island. Seattle, Washington.

A rocky beach with old pilings, concrete debris, and a weathered blue house near the shore, surrounded by tall grasses under an overcast sky. — Crow Beach house, Vashon Island. King County, Puget Sound. Washington.
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Vashon Island, located in Washington’s Puget Sound, has long been home to the Coast Salish people, particularly the Duwamish and Puyallup tribes. Before European settlers arrived, Indigenous communities utilized the island’s shores—including Crow Beach, Tramp Harbor, and the East Passage—for fishing, clamming, and seasonal camps. These waterways were essential for trade and transportation, with cedar canoes traversing the Sound. However, the arrival of settlers in the 19th century led to the forced displacement of Indigenous peoples, erasing much of their presence as treaties and land policies favored the expansion of white settlers.

Today, Vashon Island is known for its vibrant artistic culture, commitment to environmental stewardship, and tranquil seclusion. Crow Beach offers a serene shoreline ideal for swimming and exploring tide pools. In contrast, Tramp Harbor, which was once an active fishing and logging center, now attracts kayakers and photographers. The East Passage remains a crucial shipping route, while its scenic beauty and rich history continue to be central to the island's character.

A foggy shoreline with wooden pilings in calm water, dark wet sand, and distant landmasses in the background. The overcast sky creates a moody, quiet scene. — Ellisport Dock Remains. Crow Beach, Vashon Island.
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TRAVELNathan ArmesFebruary 24, 2025WASHINGTON, Vashon Island