Washington Island vacation rentals

A lush island oasis in a charming island town

Let's get the confusing bit out of the way first: Washington Island is about 30 square miles of scenic landscape surrounded by Lake Michigan and Green Bay. It is also part of a town called – wait for it – Washington Island. The town consists of 6 islands in total, but Washington Island is the only 1 with year-round residents, a whopping 660. The Potawatomi Indians were the island's first known inhabitants, and they greeted immigrants from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, and Ireland. Book a Washington Island vacation rental and enjoy some history, relaxation, and outdoor fun.

No man is an island if he knows his history

For a little island with a little population, the museums that surround your Washington Island vacation rental are impressive. The Jacobson Museum, on the western edge of the island, has natural and historical artifacts from the area, including ship models carved by Jens Jacobsen himself, the Danish poet who preserved the remains of the Potawatomi village that once occupied the site. Outside is a collection of artifacts salvaged from area shipwrecks. The Washington Island Farm Museum displays farm implements and housewares from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Views in the great outdoors, concerts in the great indoors

Opportunities to enjoy Washington Island's lush forests, beaches, and rolling hills abound. Percy Johnson County Park has a beach with a view of neighboring Hog Island, plus picnic tables and grills for public use. Gislason Public Beach is great for families, with easy walking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. It's adjacent to Red Barn Park, which offers family events, theatrical productions, and live music. Visitors love kayaking and canoeing around the island, and eco-tours can fill you in on the wonders of the island's rocky coastline.

Come in summer with the crowds, or sneak in in September

Washington Island has warm summers and cold winters, with summer temperatures hitting highs in the upper 70s. July and August are when the area is most popular among vacationers, but the locals say September is the secret sweet spot. The weather is still great; the autumn colors are inspiring; and you can grab a Washington Island vacation rental within your budget. Rain is common in the area, but not overwhelming, even in the winter season. Just come prepared with warm clothes and a rain slicker.

Exploring the natural landscape of Washington Island

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to take in the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Washington Island. Here are a few of the area's most eye-catching sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Newport State Park (11 mi / 17.7 km)
• Sister Bay Beach (16.8 mi / 27 km)
• Eagle Harbor (20.2 mi / 32.5 km)
• Peninsula State Park (21.9 mi / 35.2 km)
• Schoolhouse Beach Park (1.6 mi / 2.5 km)
• Rock Island State Park (4.9 mi / 8 km)

Traveling to and around Washington Island

The nearest airport is in Escanaba, MI (ESC-Delta County), located 25.1 mi (40.3 km) from the city center.