Matia Island Marine State Park
Matia Island Marine State Park is a remote, forested island park in the San Juan Islands with quiet beaches, old-growth forest, and excellent wildlife viewing. Accessible only by boat, it offers a peaceful escape for kayaking, anchoring, and low-impact day use in a protected marine setting.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in day-use areas and on trails; must be leashed and under control. Not allowed in buildings or on beaches.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Quiet, remote island park with beautiful forested trails, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and peaceful campsites. Visitors love the solitude, scenic shoreline, and true off-grid adventure.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring your own water and supplies; no services on the island.
- Check tides and weather before boating to the park.
- Pack out all trash; help protect fragile marine habitats.
- Use designated campsites and follow Leave No Trace practices.
- Watch for wildlife from a respectful distance.
- Plan for limited cell service and remote conditions.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Matia Island Marine State Park is late spring through early fall, when weather is drier, marine travel is easier, and wildlife viewing is excellent. Summer offers the calmest conditions for kayaking and anchoring.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Matia Island Marine State Park:
- Sucia Island Marine State ParkA popular nearby island park with coves, beaches, and excellent boating and camping opportunities.4 miles away
- Orcas IslandA major San Juan Island destination known for scenic drives, hiking, and waterfront villages.12 miles away
- Lime Kiln Point State ParkA well-known whale-watching park on San Juan Island with views of Haro Strait and frequent marine wildlife sightings.18 miles away
Things to Do at Matia Island Marine State Park
Camping at Matia Island Marine State Park
Primitive tent camping only; no RVs, cabins, or hookups. Seasonal, boat-accessible, reservations required. Limited amenities; pack in all supplies.
Hiking Trails
Matia Island Marine State Park offers a quiet, scenic day hike with forested trails, shoreline views, and a peaceful island feel. Visitors often describe the paths as easy to moderate, well-suited for a relaxed outing rather than a strenuous trek. Expect lush greenery, wildlife sightings, and a remote, uncrowded atmosphere that makes the hike feel especially restorative.
Matia Island Loop Trail
EasyA short, scenic loop through old-growth forest and along the island’s shoreline, offering views of the surrounding San Juan Islands and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
South Beach Trail
EasyA gentle trail leading to a quiet beach area with driftwood, rocky shoreline, and views across the water.
North Beach Trail
EasyA pleasant walk through forest to the north side of the island, ending at a scenic beach with tidepooling potential.
Island Perimeter Trail
EasyA longer island circuit combining forested sections and shoreline viewpoints for a fuller tour of Matia Island’s natural features.
Directions
Reach the park by private boat or kayak from Orcas, Sucia, or nearby San Juan Islands. There is no vehicle access or ferry landing on Matia Island; plan for marine navigation and check tides, weather, and anchorage conditions before departing.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Matia Island Marine State Park?
Matia Island is only accessible by private boat or water taxi. There is no ferry service or vehicle access, so visitors should plan ahead and check tides, weather, and docking options before going.
Are there campsites on Matia Island?
Yes, the park has a small primitive campground with limited sites. Reviews often mention it feels quiet and secluded, but space is limited, so arrive prepared and expect a more rustic experience.
Can I hike on Matia Island?
Yes, there are short walking trails that loop through the island’s forest and shoreline areas. Visitors often describe the trails as peaceful, easy to moderate, and great for a short day hike.
Is there drinking water on the island?
No reliable potable water is typically available, so visitors should bring all the water they need. Many reviews emphasize this as an important planning point, especially for campers.
What is the island like for wildlife viewing?
Matia Island is known for birdwatching and marine wildlife. Visitors commonly report seeing seabirds, deer, and sometimes seals or otters nearby. It’s a good place for quiet nature observation.
Is Matia Island crowded?
Usually no. Many visitors say the park feels remote and uncrowded, even in summer. Because access is limited, it tends to be much quieter than more popular parks.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →