Cypress Head, Beach 211

Near Cypress Head, several excellent dining options are available in Anacortes. Secret Cove is a waterfront seafood restaurant offering a casual dining experience with outdoor patios and a great selection of seafood, steak, and tacos. Another popular spot is Tasha Lee's Table, known for its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For a more lively experience, Brown Lantern offers pub grub, live music, and a wide selection of beers. A'Town Bistro provides farm-to-table New American cuisine with a cozy setting, while Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery combines seafood with a lively beer garden atmosphere.

For accommodations near Cypress Head, Anacortes offers several excellent hotels. The Majestic Inn & Spa provides refined rooms and suites along with a spa and stylish restaurant. The Marina Inn offers straightforward rooms with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Although Islands Inn is currently closed, it was known for its cozy rooms and free continental breakfast. These hotels cater to a range of preferences, from luxurious spa experiences to more budget-friendly options.

Cypress Head offers basic amenities for campers, including five campsites and a composting toilet. There are also two picnic areas available for day use. However, there is no access to potable water, so visitors must bring their own supply. Fire rings are provided for campfires, and overflow camping is allowed in the designated camp area. The site emphasizes minimum-impact camping techniques to preserve the natural environment.

For those planning to stay longer, nearby Anacortes provides more comprehensive amenities, including restaurants, shops, and hotels.

Cypress Head is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in kayaking and paddleboarding. The strong currents and eddies around the tombolo make it an exciting spot for navigating varied water conditions. The location is also ideal for nature lovers, with opportunities to observe marine life and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding waters. For those interested in exploring further, the nearby Cone Islands offer additional kayaking routes and opportunities to see marine mammals and shorebirds.

Camping is another popular activity, with sites available from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area.

While Cypress Head itself does not offer specific disability access features, nearby Anacortes provides more accessible amenities. Many of the local restaurants and hotels, such as Secret Cove and the Majestic Inn & Spa, offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating areas. However, the island's rugged terrain and lack of developed pathways may pose challenges for visitors with mobility impairments.

Parking for Cypress Head is not directly available on the island itself, as it is accessible primarily by water. Visitors typically launch their kayaks or paddleboards from nearby locations such as Washington Park or the Guemes Island ferry terminal. These launch points offer parking facilities, with Washington Park having a large area for parking near the beach. The Guemes Island ferry terminal also provides parking, though it may be more limited.

Once on the island, there are no designated parking areas, as the focus is on preserving the natural environment.

Cypress Head has a rich history, with the island originally named by Captain George Vancouver in 1792. He mistakenly identified the trees as cypress, which were later found to be junipers. The island's unique geography, including the tombolo, creates a fascinating environment for kayakers and paddleboarders. The area is also part of a Natural Resource Conservation Area, emphasizing the importance of preserving its natural beauty.

Historically, the island was known as Isla de S. Vincente, named after the Mexican Viceroy, reflecting its early exploration history.

Cypress Head and its surrounding area offer several attractions for visitors. The nearby Cone Islands are a popular spot for kayakers and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to see marine life and enjoy scenic views. For those interested in exploring more of the San Juan Islands, Cypress Island is a great base due to its proximity to other islands and the mainland.

In Anacortes, visitors can enjoy the town's charming shops and restaurants, as well as its marina and waterfront areas. The San Juan Islands are also known for their whale watching tours and hiking trails, making the area a comprehensive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.