Imagine a beautiful little island, only a 30 minute boat ride from the "mainland" with no automobiles, picturesque views and trails, a private marina and airstrip, fun clubhouse, waterfront picnic areas and year-round caretakers. Welcome to Center Island!
Located between Lopez and Decatur Islands, in the Salish Sea, Washington; this 178 acre island is truly an oasis....a place to relax and enjoy all that the islands have to offer. The community is divided into 1/2 acre parcels, with beautiful little lanes winding through the fir and cedar trees and picturesque trails for exploring.
Center Island has a number of nice areas for walking through the evergreen forests or launching a kayak and exploring by the water. Across the bay, The San Juan Preservation Trust manages a beautiful property on the tip of Decatur Island. Its an easy paddle away and offers lovely beaches and trails - perfect for a picnic outing!
Approaching the island by boat, you can see the caretaker’s home and the community clubhouse. An easy-to-use boat ramp is located next to the pier and there are numerous areas for small boat storage. An area is provided for larger boat storage above the picnic tables and sports court.
The community clubhouse is an island-wide gathering spot for a 4th of July BBQ and a Thanksgiving dinner. It can also be reserved by members who are wanting to host a special event and utilize the large kitchen and dining area.
During the summer months, people are always stopping by to check their email, rent one of the community vehicles, use the laundry facilities or shower, pick up some ice or sit on the large covered porch and visit
Charming cabins seem to be the housing choice for most of the residents who come to the island to enjoy a 2nd home. The lifestyle is relaxed but in no way socially isolated. Because the island is small, and the main transportation is golf cart or walking, there are many opportunities to meet neighbors and impromptu meals and gatherings occur often.
Center Island FAQs
How do I get to the island if I don’t have a boat or plane?
There are two water taxi companies that operate out of Skyline Marina in Anacortes and often make at least two or more trips a day to the island.
Why would I choose an island that doesn’t have ferry service?
Most of the people who like the non-ferry served islands, love the fact there is no tourism so there is a real sense of "community" and safety. Many love the unique interaction you can get with nature when you don’t have cars and busy roads to deal with. It’s a healthy lifestyle and you’re often challenged in ways that don’t happen in the city. Not to mention….lots of fresh crab!
What do you do about garbage?
Each person is responsible for disposing of their own garbage. There are dumpsters at the marinas in Anacortes so most people try to recycle as much as possible so they only need to take a small bag off the island when they leave.
How easy is it to go to another island if you want to go out to lunch or shop?
Many residents have a small boat that they can take to the county dock at Hunter Bay on Lopez Island. They leave a car there in the county parking lot and go to Lopez Village or to the ferry landing; where they might go as a "walk on" to Friday Harbor for lunch or shopping.
How do you get bigger items like golf carts or building materials to the island?
There are a number of barge companies that service the island. Island Transporter in Anacortes is often used but other options are available. In addition, both of the water taxi companies can transport freight and Island Express can even move golf carts...
Are there any contractors on the island to do building projects, install utilities or do land clearing?
Yes, there are a couple of local contractors in the surrounding area that are excellent and can help you with most type of projects.
Ready to start your Center Island Property Seach?
© 2017 Windermere Solutions, LLC
