Ten minutes from Everett to a sandy spit: Jetty Island’s quick, elemental escape

EVERETT FERRY FIELD GUIDE

Ten minutes from Everett to a sandy spit: Jetty Island’s quick, elemental escape

A short ferry from Jetty Landing carries visitors to Jetty Island during summer Jetty Island Days — this guide explains how to catch the ferry, what to expect ashore, and the key booking and accessibility details to plan a seamless day trip.

Ten minutes from Everett to a sandy spit: Jetty Island’s quick, elemental escape.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Everett
Operator
Snohomish County Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Category
Ferry
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the charm of Jetty Island with a scenic ferry crossing from Jetty Landing that gives you access to a unique sandy island environment just off Everett; the service runs during summer Jetty Island Days and the voyage is a short hop that sets the tone for a day of beachcombing and shoreline views.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

A narrow island of sand, sky and surf

Jetty Island is prized for its wide sandy flats and shoreline views — a simple landscape that rewards low-key exploration and tide-aware beachcombing.

THE WILDLIFE

Watch your step around burrowing ghost shrimp

Burrowing ghost shrimp work the mudflats and create hollows that can cause unexpected sinking on exposed mud at low tides; use caution when walking exposed intertidal areas.

THE PRACTICALS

Book returns and arrive early to avoid lines

Visitors must book their return trip (the return ticket is free) and check in at the Jetty Island kiosk at least 15 minutes before departure to hold reserved seating; last return trips vary by day of week, so plan accordingly.

What the day feels like

A brisk ferry hop, then wide, wind-swept sand

The Jetty Island Ferry delivers you to a sandy island in a short, scenic crossing; arrive early, check in at the kiosk, and be prepared to book or confirm your free return ticket so you can relax and explore the shore before the scheduled return.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this short ferry outing works for — and who should plan differently.

1
Active FamiliesGood for families who plan light: strollers and carts are limited (up to five per voyage, first-come), and the sandy terrain can make wheeled gear impractical, so pack accordingly.
2
Visitors with mobility needsAccessible: Jetty Island has a specialty wheelchair onsite and ADA mobility devices are not restricted, but low-tide dock changes and short walks from the parking area can affect access — contact staff in advance with questions.
3
Beachcombers & wildlife observersWell suited for those looking to explore sandy flats and shorelife, but be cautious of burrowing ghost shrimp and exposed mud at low tide.
4
Day-trippers who want simple logisticsIdeal for planners who will book both outbound and free return tickets in advance and arrive early to check in; note strict change and cancellation windows.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

Ferry service operates Wednesday through Sunday during Jetty Island Days (summer season window); the crossing itself is about 10 minutes.

What to Bring

Pack light and bring only what you can comfortably carry on sand; strollers and carts are limited and often impractical on the island, though a specialty wheelchair is available on site.

Meeting & Check-in

Meet at the Jetty Island kiosk at Jetty Landing (arrive at least 15 minutes prior); check-in is required to hold reserved seats.

Parking & Fees

As part of a reservation you can pre-purchase discounted parking for your date (a link is provided in confirmation); parking is free up to two hours, with posted rates thereafter.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the ferry ride?

The ferry ride is about 10 minutes.

Where do I meet to board the ferry?

Departures are from Jetty Landing adjacent to the boat launch at 10th Street and West Marine View Drive (check-in at the Jetty Island kiosk); the meeting address is 522 10th St, Everett.

Do I need a return ticket?

Yes — you must book your free return trip; return trips should be booked at the same time as your paid ticket or via a link in your confirmation. Last return times vary by day.

Are pets allowed on the ferry or island?

Pets are not allowed on the Jetty Island Ferry.

What are the rules for strollers, carts and wheelchairs?

Only up to five strollers, carts or wheeled cargo are allowed per voyage on a first-come, first-served basis; wheelchairs and ADA mobility devices are not restricted, and a specialty wheelchair is available on site.

What is the cancellation or modification policy?

Modifications changing departure time are not allowed less than 7 days from arrival; cancellations at least 7 days out receive a full refund less transaction fees, while cancellations 6 or fewer days out are not refunded. If the operator cancels for weather or tides, you will receive a full refund.

Who can I contact with questions about tides or accessibility?

Call (360) 805-6708 or email [email protected]; staff are available Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm.