If you go

Best timing: Boaters often fill Cypress Island’s beachside camps in summer on a first come, first served basis—you’re more likely to find camps in the off-season. Trails can be hiked year-round.

Getting there: While there’s no regular ferry service to Cypress Island, private charters make the 30 to 45-minute crossing to the Island from Anacortes, located approximately 90 minutes north of Seattle. You can arrange to be dropped off and picked up by:

“Paraclete Charters (800-808-2999, www.paracletecharters.com), which runs daily trips to destinations throughout the Islands. Rates start at $34 per person each way and decrease with group size—you can even bring a kayak for an additional fee.

“Island Express Charters (877-473-9777, www.island expresscharters.com) offer similar service.

To reach Anacortes, drive Interstate 5 north from Seattle to Exit 230, then drive west on State Route 20. Paraclete Charters departs from the Skyline Marina, while Island Express Charters departs from the Cap Sante Marina.

Kayak trips: Anacortes Kayak Tours (800-922-1801, www.anacortes kayaktours.com) offers guided day and overnight kayak trips to Cypress Island, with day trips starting at $99 per person. Custom tours for groups are also available.