Salish Coast Itinerary: Day 3

Follow Snohomish County’s shoreline north and you’ll trade in the density of waterfront towns and cities for lush greenery, celebrated tribal traditions, coastal parklands, and a shopping experience that’s worth the trip alone.

The Tulalip Tribes of Washington is a reservation rich with natural resources. It’s known for having distinct cultural traditions, being a popular destination for shopping and entertainment, and having a holiday light display that’s probably visible from space.

Located where the Stillaguamish River meets the Salish Sea, Stanwood offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the Pacific Northwest and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Here, grey whales come to feed in the spring and thousands of snow geese come to live every winter. Stanwood is also the gateway to beautiful Camano Island.

From reservation to regional park, you can cover a lot of ground and still have energy for a nightcap.

The Hibulb Cultural Center inhabits the space where the past informs the present. It’s where an ancient and sustainable way of life in the Tulalip Tribes is celebrated and preserved. Visitors to the center can see basketry, tools, clothes, hats, totem poles, and full-sized canoes on display. You’ll marvel at how many practical items can be made from the bark of Western Red Cedar— a material that the Tulalip peoples know to be weavable, breathable, naturally waterproof, and lightweight.

Experience a high-end al fresco shopping experience in Snohomish County with a stop at Seattle Premium Outlets.  Shop over 130 designer names and luxury products at lower prices from retailers like Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Armani Exchange, Burberry, Nike, and Lacoste. The outlet stores are laid out in an open-air mall and many of the walkways are covered, providing shade and protection from the famous PNW drizzle. Strolling on a cooler day is a refreshing experience. Be sure to map out your trip with this explorable and mobile-friendly map.

Kayak Point Regional Park is key stop along the Cascadia Marine Trail – a trail system with 66 campsites and 160 day-use sites. Visitors can kayak or paddle board their way to the shores of Kayak Point and camp out, before hitting the water trails to other destinations in the Salish Sea. Wherever your summer plans take you, be sure to visit Kayak Point at least once. You'll get the best saltwater park experience that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Since you’re already at Kayak Point Regional Park, you should do yourself a favor and spend a night in the Yurt Village. These yurts are equipped with futons, outdoor fire rings, indoor electrical outlets (crucial for charging your phone), ventilated windows, and access to hot water. They’re also only a short walk from the photogenic shores of Post Susan of the Salish Sea. You haven’t truly experienced glamping until you’ve stayed in one of these yurts.

SAAL stands for Stanwood Artisan Ales and Lagers. It’s located in a vintage stucco firefighter’s building. Besides all the delicious beer you’re sure to sip, the food is a top local secret – try $3 mahi mahi fish tacos any time of the day. Happy hour prices are baked into the menu so that you can get your fill of quality eats without emptying your wallet.