Harstine Island State Park

For dining near Harstine Island State Park, several options are available. Spencer Lake Bar & Grill offers a casual atmosphere with outdoor seating and a great selection of beers and cocktails. It's popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Another choice is Restaurant At Alderbrook, which provides a waterfront dining experience with locally sourced seafood and a cozy, upscale ambiance. For a more rustic feel, The Cabin Tavern offers live music and karaoke in a casual setting. For fresh seafood, Taylor Shellfish Farms is a great choice, offering a variety of oysters and other seafood products. Lastly, Olympic Bakery & Deli is perfect for grabbing homemade pastries and sandwiches for a picnic on the island.

For accommodations near Harstine Island State Park, Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a top choice. This upscale resort offers luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, and a marina, set against the backdrop of the Olympic Mountains. Another option is Summertide Resort and Marina, which provides low-key cabins with beachfront access. For a more rustic experience, Robin Hood Village Resort offers cottage-style lodging with a restaurant on site. Glen Ayr Resort is another nearby option, offering a more budget-friendly stay with scenic views.

Harstine Island State Park offers basic amenities such as picnic tables and outdoor restrooms. However, it lacks more extensive facilities like showers or rental equipment. Visitors often bring their own supplies for picnics or camping. The nearby Jarrell Cove State Park provides more amenities, including campsites, a marina, and kitchen shelters, making it a great alternative for those seeking more developed facilities.

For those looking to explore the island further, the rural roads are ideal for biking, and the shoreline offers opportunities for kayaking. The island's community center hosts events and markets, adding to the local charm.

Harstine Island State Park is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Hiking through the old-growth forest to the secluded beach is a highlight, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife. The island's 25 miles of shoreline are ideal for kayaking, providing a chance to explore marine life and enjoy the scenic views. Visitors can also engage in shellfish collecting, though proper equipment is necessary. The nearby Wild Felid Advocacy Center offers a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with wild cats.

The island's rural roads are great for biking or leisurely drives, allowing visitors to enjoy the picturesque countryside. Photography enthusiasts will find numerous opportunities to capture the island's natural beauty, from the forest trails to the beach.

While Harstine Island State Park offers some basic amenities, it may not be fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. The park's trails and facilities are not specifically designed for wheelchair access, and the dirt road leading to the park can be challenging for some vehicles. However, nearby Jarrell Cove State Park provides more accessible facilities, including wheelchair-accessible parking lots and restrooms. Visitors with mobility issues may find it more convenient to explore Jarrell Cove instead.

Parking at Harstine Island State Park is limited and requires a Discover Pass or a $10 day-use fee. The parking area is located near the trailhead, and visitors should be prepared for a dirt road leading to the park. It's advisable to use a sturdy vehicle, as the road can be rough. The parking area is close to the restrooms and the start of the hiking trails, making it convenient for visitors to access the park's amenities.

For those planning to visit Jarrell Cove State Park instead, it offers more parking options, including wheelchair-accessible parking lots, and is accessible by both road and boat.

Harstine Island has a rich history and unique cultural heritage. It is home to the Harstine Island Community Hall, which hosts events and performances throughout the year. The island's rural landscape and scenic shoreline make it a haven for wildlife, including deer and birds. Visitors have even reported sightings of Bigfoot in the area, adding to the island's mystique.

The island's proximity to the Olympic Mountains offers stunning views on clear days, and its location in the South Sound makes it a great spot for observing marine life. The nearby Taylor Shellfish Farms is a testament to the region's thriving seafood industry.

One of the main attractions near Harstine Island State Park is the Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington, where visitors can encounter endangered wild cats like Bengal tigers and snow leopards. The island itself is home to several state parks, including Jarrell Cove State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and water activities. The historic Jarrell’s Cove Cemetery is another point of interest, known for its hand-dug graves and scenic beauty.

For those interested in exploring further, the nearby Olympic Bakery & Deli is a great place to stock up on local treats before heading to the island.