Jetty Island is a two-mile man-made island at the mouth of the Snohomish River, separated from the Everett shoreline by a narrow channel of warm, shallow water. During the summer, it transforms into one of the most enjoyable beach destinations in the Pacific Northwest, and the majority of visitors to Washington State have no idea it exists.
Here is everything you need to know to make the most of a day there.
What Is Jetty Island?
Jetty Island was created in the early 1900s from dredge spoils during the construction of the Port of Everett. Over decades, sand and sediment accumulated naturally, creating a beach environment with unusually warm water by Puget Sound standards.
The island is two miles long and mostly undeveloped. The western shore (facing the open Sound) has the best beach access. The eastern side, facing the channel, is calmer and popular for paddleboarding and kayaking. Nature trails run through the interior and along the shoreline.
Jetty Island Days 2026
The seasonal public ferry program runs:
Dates: July 8 to September 6, 2026 Days: Wednesday through Sunday Ferry departure: Jetty Landing, 10th St and W. Marine View Dr, Everett Reservations required: Yes, through the City of Everett website
Ticket prices:
- Adults and children (3 and over): $3 to $5 per person (check current pricing)
- Children 2 and under: Free
The ferry runs continuously during operating hours. The crossing takes about 5 minutes. The last ferry back departs the island at a set time, so check the schedule and do not miss it.
How to Reserve
Reservations are made through the City of Everett's parks and recreation system. Book online as soon as your dates are set. Weekend slots, especially on sunny summer days, fill up days in advance. Weekdays are more available but still worth booking.
Search "Jetty Island Days Everett reservations" to find the current booking page. The City of Everett website has the official link.
What to Bring
Sunscreen. The island has limited shade. Bring more than you think you need.
Water. There are no concession stands on the island. Bring all food and drink for your group.
A picnic. The island is ideal for a full-day picnic. Pack a cooler.
Beach chairs or a blanket.
A kite. The beach faces northwest and catches a reliable breeze.
Bug spray. The marshy interior can have mosquitoes in the evening; less of an issue in the afternoon sun but worth having.
Change of clothes. Even adults end up wading.
The Water
The water on the channel side is genuinely warm by Puget Sound standards, consistently warmer than ocean beaches because the shallow channel heats up in the summer sun. Toddlers and young children are safe in the calm, shallow areas. The depth increases gradually from the shore.
The Sound-side beach is more exposed with slightly cooler water and a stronger current, better for older kids and adults who want to swim in deeper water.
Getting to Jetty Landing
Address: 522 10th St, Everett, WA 98201 (parking area near the ferry dock)
From Timber & Tide: About 8 to 10 minutes north by car along Marine View Drive.
Parking is available in the lot near the ferry departure point. Arrive at least 20 minutes before your ferry time if you're driving, as the lot fills up on sunny days.
Can I Paddle to Jetty Island?
Yes. If you have a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, you can paddle across the channel independently without using the ferry. This is a popular option for guests who rent kayaks or SUPs from the Port of Everett Marina rental kiosk (about 10 minutes by water from the island).
Timber & Tide as Your Jetty Island Base
Timber & Tide is 8 to 10 minutes by car from Jetty Landing, making it the ideal base for a Jetty Island day trip. Stock the cooler in our kitchen the night before, drive down in the morning, and spend the day on the island. Come home to the sauna afterward.
Book direct for the best rate.