Anderson Island (Washington)
Island Rural island in Puget Sound with small communities
A ferry-accessible island in south Puget Sound reached from Steilacoom, with quiet roads, boat access, shellfish beaches and informal trails. Visitors kayak, cycle and look for seabirds away from the city.
Anderson Island is an inhabited island in south Puget Sound in Washington State, administratively part of Pierce County. It functions as a residential and recreational community with year-round and seasonal residents.
The island features shoreline access, local roads, small community facilities, and outdoor recreation such as boating and walking along marine shorelines. The community atmosphere is low-density and largely private-residence oriented.
European-American settlement and development of the island took place in the 19th and 20th centuries as Puget Sound communities expanded; it later developed into a mix of permanent homes and seasonal properties. Local transportation links have historically relied on ferry service to the mainland.
Anderson Island lies in south Puget Sound, southwest of Tacoma, Washington, and is reached by a county ferry from the mainland.
- Ferry access: Served by a county-operated ferry linking the island to the Washington mainland, enabling vehicle access without bridges.
- Character and recreation: Predominantly residential and recreational in character, with shoreline properties, small community amenities, and opportunities for boating and shoreline walks.
How to Get to Anderson Island (Washington) #
Ferry service to Anderson Island departs from Steilacoom (Pierce County route); vehicle reservations recommended. Nearest major city: Tacoma (~30-40 minutes by road to Steilacoom).
Tips for Visiting Anderson Island (Washington) #
- Ferries to Anderson Island depart Steilacoom; check Pierce County ferry schedules as private vehicle reservations fill quickly.
- Rent a bike or bring one-roads and back lanes are quiet and ideal for cycling.
- Pick up supplies in Steilacoom or nearby Tacoma-the island has limited shopping options.
Best Time to Visit Anderson Island (Washington) #
Best visited late spring through summer for ferry service and outdoor activities.
Weather & Climate near Anderson Island (Washington) #
Anderson Island (Washington)'s climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 23°C. Abundant rainfall (1213 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (145 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 10°C. The driest month with just 22 mm.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 10°C. Light rainfall.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (190 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (193 mm).
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
