Shaw Island (Blind Bay)
Shaw Island doesn’t have it’s own set of mooring balls, but it is nearby the balls accessible at Blind Island. If the balls are all occupied (or your vessel is over 45 feet) Blind Bay is a popular location for anchoring. If spending time in Blind bay - the historic Shaw Island General Store and Post office are easily accessible.
*** Tip for entering Blind bay - there are rocks to the north of Blind Island - and these can be hidden at higher tide. Recommend entering the bay to the south of Blind Island. However, there is an area of rocks that are also hidden in the middle of the passageway. Locals have placed a sign to highlight this rock, recommend using your nav charts to closely monitor your location.
Shaw Island is 7.7 square miles and is accessible by the Washington State Ferries. It is 7.7 square miles in size. It was named after James Shaw, a US Naval Officer, during the Wilkes Expedition in 1841. The island is within the historical territory of the Lummi Nation. It was obtained by the United States was obtained by treaty in 1855.
Blind Bay
Recreational crabbing in Blind Bay can be excellent. For more information about harvesting crab, obtaining the proper license and catch reporting guidelines, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
Baller verified:
We stayed 8/2022 - many harbor seals can be found on the rocks especially at low tide.
Provisions are accessible at nearby Shaw island. Care needs to be taken as you need to pass the ferry dock to get to the smaller dock. Do NOT go under the ferry ramp. You can use the small dock if shopping at the Shaw Island General Store. You need to let them know if you are using the dingy dock.
If you want to stretch your legs on Shaw island - there is not a lot of car traffic so you will see folks walking along the roads. We found a hidden gem along the road Shaw Island Gatehouse - there were beautiful hand crafted seed packets available for sale on your honor. https://shawislandgatehouse.blogspot.com/ (insert photo)
Along the entrance to Blind bay, this sign warns of rocks that can be missed at higher tides. Pat attention to your tide charts and maps to beware of hidden rocks.
Boat on a buoy at Blind Island
Fields seen on a walk - looking back toward Blind Bay from Shaw Island
We stumbled across this adorable little seed shop while out on a walk on Shaw Island. The Gate House has little handcrafted seed packets that were just devine. You can purchase with cash on an honor system.