Yellow Island Preserve

What to See: Plants

More than 50 species of wildflowers, including broadleafed shooting star, hairy Indian paintbrush, chocolate lily, camas and stonecrop bloom on Yellow Island. Brittle prickly pear cactus—the only cactus species native to western Washington—is also found here. Many of these plants occur throughout the San Juans, but only Yellow Island, with its open fescue meadows and the absence of resident grazing animals, hosts such dense and diverse populations.

What to See: Animals

Bald eagles frequently perch in the island’s tallest trees. Harbor seals haul out on the rocks off the island’s west spit while using the east spit to give birth and nurse their young. Harlequin ducks forage near shore, taking advantage of the prolific life in the intertidal zone. The black oystercatcher’s chisel-shaped bill is well suited for prying limpet, chiton and other shellfish from the rocks at low tide. Hummingbirds and several species of songbirds nest on the island. Mink and river otters are the only mammals commonly seen on the island.

Farther from the island’s wave-swept, weather-beaten coast, orca whales travel in large family groups called pods. Other marine mammals—minke whales, harbor porpoises, and California and Steller’s sealions—swim in the nutrient-laden currents that bathe Yellow Island.

Please land and come ashore only at the southeast beach, below the wooden Dodd cabin. The east spit is open to landings only in the spring and fall; watch for local signage. Do not beach small boats or kayaks on the west spit. No camping or overnight mooring is allowed.

When visiting this preserve, please stay on the established trails. Groups of more than six people require written permission before visiting Yellow Island. To arrange for such a visit, please contact TNC at 206-343-4344.

No pets allowed on the preserve.