Washburn Island
An undeveloped island paradise accessible by boat, offering primitive camping, kayaking, and pristine beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Washburn Island
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An undeveloped island paradise accessible by boat, offering primitive camping, kayaking, and pristine beaches.
"Blessed just to be here for a minute. Stay a week, and you've been to heaven."
🛶 Book Campsites Early
Washburn Island campsites fill up fast, especially for summer weekends. Reserve well in advance!
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
This is an undeveloped island. Be prepared to take all your trash with you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking and Water Sports
Waiquoit Bay
Explore the calm waters surrounding the island, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet ski camping.
Primitive Campsites
Bluff Site
Experience true nature with basic camping. Enjoy starry nights and the sounds of the ocean.
Beach Access
Waiquoit Bay Entrance
A sheltered sandy beach perfect for families and a great spot to land your boat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Access is Key
Embrace Primitive Camping
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Book Campsites Early
Washburn Island campsites fill up fast, especially for summer weekends. Reserve well in advance!
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
This is an undeveloped island. Be prepared to take all your trash with you.
🚤 Boat Access is Essential
You need a boat to reach Washburn Island. Kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats are ideal.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
There's little shade on the island. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Book Campsites Early
Washburn Island campsites fill up fast, especially for summer weekends. Reserve well in advance!
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
This is an undeveloped island. Be prepared to take all your trash with you.
🚤 Boat Access is Essential
You need a boat to reach Washburn Island. Kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats are ideal.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
There's little shade on the island. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
🎣 Get Your Licenses
If you plan on qoahogging, ensure you have the appropriate licenses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Washburn Island for its natural beauty and primitive camping experience, calling it a slice of heaven. The sheltered beach is a hit with families, and the boat access adds to the adventure. Some note that it can get crowded on nice summer days, and being an undeveloped island means packing in and out everything you need.
"Loved our trip! We came over with Troop 36 Mashpee and had an absolutely wonderful time on the island. We took a little time to help clean up some adjacent campgrounds as per the direction of the rangers. Enjoyed a beautiful day of kayaking and qoahogging (with the appropriate licenses) and a being full moon night on the bluff site. Looking forward to hopefully booking another night in the future!"
Jon B
"You can only get there by boat. From the entrance to Waiquoit Bay to your Port there is a great stretch of sand beach which, usually is quite sheltered from the prevailing winds. Can get quite crowded in the middle of a nice summer's day. Great for kids."
Richard Waldman
"Imagine that all of this is what all of this used to be. Blessed just to be here for a minute. Stay a week, and you've been to heaven"
William Thompson-
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Washburn Island is only accessible by boat. Visitors typically arrive by kayak, canoe, personal watercraft, or small boat. Boat rentals are available in nearby Falmouth.
No, Washburn Island is undeveloped and does not have any roads or vehicle access. It is strictly a boat-access-only destination.
Popular launch points include those near Waquoit Bay, offering access to the island. Check local marinas for rental and launch services.
There is no public ferry service to Washburn Island. Access is limited to private boats or watercraft.
The travel time by kayak will depend on your starting point and paddling speed, but it's generally a short trip from the Waquoit Bay area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission tickets required to visit Washburn Island. However, camping requires reservations, which can fill up quickly.
Camping on Washburn Island typically involves a fee, and reservations are essential. It's best to check with the managing authorities for current pricing and booking procedures.
As an undeveloped island, Washburn Island does not have set operating hours. Visitors can access it by boat during daylight hours, and camping is permitted with reservations.
Reservations for camping on Washburn Island are highly recommended and can be made through the relevant park or recreation authority. They tend to fill up fast.
There is no specific entrance fee for day use of Washburn Island. Access is free for boaters, but camping requires a reservation and associated fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, primitive camping, hiking on trails, and exploring the natural beauty of the island. +1
Washburn Island is largely undeveloped, so expect primitive conditions. There are no developed facilities like restrooms or picnic tables. You'll need to be self-sufficient.
Yes, the sheltered beach area is great for kids, and the island offers a unique adventure. Just be prepared for primitive camping and pack accordingly.
Swimming is possible around Washburn Island, particularly in the sheltered bay areas. Always exercise caution and be aware of currents.
You might spot various bird species, and sometimes even coyotes have been seen swimming to the island.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the natural coastline, sandy beaches, and serene waters. The island is also a unique spot for creative promposal photos.
The open water views offer beautiful opportunities for both sunrise and sunset photography, painting the sky with vibrant colors over the ocean.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone over Washburn Island to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. Waterproof gear is also a good idea given the proximity to water.
The sandy beaches, the bluff campsites, and the general natural landscape offer picturesque scenes. Writing in the sand for special occasions is also a unique photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏕️ Camping Enthusiasts
The bluff sites offer a more secluded experience, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the tranquility of nature. 🛶 Kayakers and Water Sports Lovers
Jet ski camping is also a popular option for those who want to combine their love for PWC with overnight stays. Ensure you have proper safety gear and are aware of any local boating regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Washburn Island
When planning your trip, remember that Washburn Island is an undeveloped natural area. This means you won't find marinas or docks. You'll be landing on the beach or anchoring offshore.
Always ensure you have the necessary safety equipment for your chosen mode of transport. Camping and Nature on Washburn Island
This includes all trash, food scraps, and any other waste. The natural beauty of Washburn Island is a major draw. Visitors can explore walking trails that wind through the island's landscape.
The surrounding waters are ideal for activities like kayaking and even qoahogging, provided you have the proper licenses. The experience is often described as heavenly, especially during a full moon night on the bluff site. Family Fun and Special Occasions
Beyond family outings, Washburn Island has also been the backdrop for memorable special occasions. It's a popular spot for creative promposals, where couples use the beach to write messages in the sand before the tide washes them away.
The island's serene and picturesque setting makes it an ideal location for such romantic gestures. The overall atmosphere of Washburn Island lends itself to creating lasting memories, whether it's a family camping trip or a surprise romantic moment. 
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