Retiring is not just about leaving work; it’s about starting a new way of living. For some people, this means enjoying ocean breezes, quiet mornings, and having space. Camano Island in Washington, offers all this without the busyness of big cities. But is it really a good place to retire? Here’s what you need to know.
Camano Island in Washington is Easy to Access but Feels Secluded
First, Camano Island is different from other islands. You don’t have to take a ferry to get there. You can drive straight to it because there’s a bridge connecting it to the mainland. This means you can enjoy island life without worrying about ferry schedules or long waits.
At the same time, Camano feels far from city stress. It’s about an hour and a half from Seattle, but once you’re on the island, it feels like a different world. This mix of being close to services but far from noise is what makes Camano special and appealing for retirees.
Nature Isn’t Just Nearby. It’s Everywhere.
When you retire, you might want to slow down and enjoy nature. Camano Island encourages you to do just that. The island is full of forests, beaches, and quiet walking paths. It’s not just a place with nice views; it’s a place where you can live among them and appreciate the beauty every day.
Here’s what you can find:
Camano Island State Park has forest trails and saltwater beaches, great for hiking or just relaxing with a view.
Cama Beach Historical State Park offers cabin-style stays with easy beach access, perfect for visits from grandkids or a fun day out.
You’ll see local wildlife, like bald eagles and deer, right in your yard, making every day feel special.
The Pace Is Slow, But Not Sleepy
Some places are quiet because nothing happens. Camano is calm because life moves at its own pace. It has a small-town feel without being stuck in the past. There are farmers markets, local events, and small art galleries around the island. You’ll meet other retirees who chose Camano for its peaceful charm, creating a friendly, relaxed social scene.
So, while you won’t find the constant buzz of a city, you won’t feel lonely either. There’s enough happening to keep you interested without overwhelming you, making it a great place to connect with others.
Healthcare Access Is Better Than You’d Expect
Many rural areas struggle with healthcare, but Camano Island in Washington does well. The island doesn’t have a big hospital, but it has clinics for basic care. For more serious needs, the town of Stanwood is just across the bridge and has more medical services.
From there, you can easily drive to Everett and Seattle, where larger hospitals and specialists are available. Many retirees appreciate having good healthcare nearby without living in a busy city, guaranteeing peace of mind for their health needs.
Housing Isn’t Cheap, But It’s Manageable
Camano Island’s housing market is growing in popularity. Prices aren’t the lowest, especially for homes by the water, but they are still lower than in urban Seattle or Bainbridge Island. You can find:
- Smaller homes with forest views at lower prices
- Mid-range homes with partial water views
- Larger homes on land or full waterfront if your budget allows
- There’s also no ferry tax to worry about, which saves money over time. Plus, the lack of crowded development helps keep property values stable.
Community Feels Local, Not Touristy
One of the biggest surprises is how Camano doesn’t feel touristy. There are vacation homes, but the island isn’t dependent on tourism. Most people you meet live there year-round, creating a stable and caring community.
Locals support small businesses, attend community events, and care about the environment. For retirees, being part of a real community that’s not just a vacation spot, makes a big difference in how at home you feel, making lasting friendships and connections.
Where Gray Skies Meet Golden Summers
If you don’t like harsh winters or hot summers, Camano is a good choice. The weather is typical for the Pacific Northwest: mild, wet winters and nice, dry summers. Snow is rare, and you won’t have to deal with extreme heat.
However, be prepared for gray skies. Rain comes and goes from fall to spring. But many locals enjoy the cozy, slower pace it brings. And when summer comes, it’s beautiful long days, fresh air, and amazing water views that make outdoor activities enjoyable.
Conclusion
Camano Island in Washington isn’t for everyone. It doesn’t have big shopping centers or nightlife. But if you want a slower, more grounded retirement in a beautiful natural setting with some connection to the outside world, it could be a great fit. The community is genuine. The lifestyle is balanced. And the views are always amazing.
So, visit Camano Island’s website and book your trip today!