Ferry to summer beach fun on Jetty Island returns Saturday

Jetty Island Days have returned.

The city of Everett has resumed its foot ferry to Jetty Island, the sandy man-made beach off the Everett waterfront.

Passenger ferry service runs 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and continues daily until Sept. 1 on the following schedule: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Passes are a suggested donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children. Get the passes at Marine Park boat launch, 10th Street and W. Marine View Drive, Everett. Return passes are available on the island.

Once you’re there, stroll the beach, catch some sun, watch the kiteboarders, have a picnic and relax.

Other activities on Jetty Island include nature walks, water play, sand-castle building, free interpretive programs, day camps, beach volleyball and family campfire nights and, of course, relaxing in the sun. Water play is only allowed on the west shore and at visitors’ own risk; there are no lifeguards.

Some essentials to pack: Food, water and drinks (but no glass containers, an umbrella for shade, jackets, sunscreen, shoes and changes of clothing. Remember to pack it all back out, but leave anything found on the island behind where it belongs.

The sand paths are not suitable for strollers and other wheeled equipment.

The Jetty Island Ferry departs every 15 minutes starting at 10 a.m. daily. Bring $3 for the Port of Everett parking fee. For a detailed ferry schedule, go to www.everettwa.org/parks.

The ferry runs fill up quickly, and the wait can be more than an hour long on sunny days. A grassy area, dock and frequent food vendors nearby can ease the wait, but making ferry reservations is the best way to avoid disappointment and hassle. People who live outside Everett’s city limits must have a group of eight or more. Call 48 hours or more ahead: 425-257-8304.

Learn more about Jetty Island Days special events, camps and cruises at www.everettwa.org/parks.