Vashon, the largest of the islands in Puget Sound, is just a 15-minute ferry ride from Seattle, Port Orchard and Tacoma. Even though just a short crossing from major cities, the island is still sparsely inhabited and quietly rural, a natural paradise with wonderful vistas, beaches, birds, hiking and biking trails and boating. Home to a thriving group of artists, Vashon is famous for its galleries, quaint shops, farmers market, mix of eateries and coffee shops, itty-bitty movie theater and fully-stocked supermarket. Aside from a few flashing stop signs, not a single traffic light on the entire 12-mile long island.

For Vashon island information and events: www.vashonchamber.com