Jetty Island welcomes visitors to its shores beginning Wednesday.
One of Everett’s most popular summertime destinations, Jetty Island offers a plethora of events during its 21st season.
The two-mile long, manmade island features sandy beaches and shallow warm water. A free ferry departs from the 10th Street Boat Launch and Marine Park about every half hour from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and beginning at 11 a.m. Sundays.
Opening day Sandblast activities include the official flag raising ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, followed by a hunt for buried treasure placed in the island’s sand. Throughout the day, master sand artist Kali Bradford sculpts sand creations. Visitors can lend their talents to the sculptures that will become the centerpiece of the Sandblast Celebration.
Some of the other fun city-sponsored summer programs at Jetty Island include late night campfires, craft-making sessions and sunset and Sunday harbor cruises.
Interpretive and educational classes focus on the natural history, wildflowers and birds of the island. The 45-minute walks are held twice daily and led by naturalists.
Sandblasters Nature Camps offer visitors three-day explorations of the island. Classes focus on learning about the plants and animals that live there, but also offer time for play in the sand and craft-making. Eight camps for different age groups are held during the summer. The $75 cost includes a Jetty Island T-shirt. Registration is required.
Other children’s activities include a sand castle contest testing beachgoers creative sculpting abilities. Two sessions are held this summer on July 16 and Aug. 2.
The Osprey Camera Project offers visitors an inside look at the osprey populations residing at Port Gardner Bay and along the Snohomish River. A live, real-time monitor inside Jetty Island’s Discovery Hut gives visitors reality TV, osprey-style. Watch as adult ospreys in more than 25 active nests catch fish to feed their chicks and follow as they complete everyday activities.
Jetty Island organizers recommend bringing a jacket, sunscreen, water, shoes, beverages and a change of clothing for children.
Ferry service may be canceled due to inclement weather. Early closures may occur if Jetty Island reaches maximum capacity.
Everett residents with a current resident card or current drivers license with an Everett address or groups of 12 or more may make advance reservations. Otherwise, ferry service is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Private group tours are also offered.
For reservations for cruises or nature camps, or for information, call the jetty kiosk at 425-257-8304.
Herald photos
Jetty Island attracts adventurers of all kinds during the summer.
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