I’ve always thought about how I could merge travel into my regular life and take advantage of remote work from someplace other than my own home. Even if that doesn’t mean an international trip, I think the feeling of being in a new environment and exploring a different destination is what I truly seek when I travel. While I still have the flexibility of remote work, this brings the perfect opportunity to work somewhere else while fueling my desire to explore. To fulfill this urge, I have now entered my “Work From Home Staycation Era”. Starting with a 3 day stay at The Lodges on Vashon, I was able to experience the rush of exploration and adventure while also satisfying the real world deliverables of clocking in at work.
Getting to Vashon Island
Reaching Vashon Island from Seattle was just a 22 minute ferry ride away from downtown Seattle taking the Fauntleroy-to-Vashon Route. If coming from Tacoma, you’ll set sail from the Point Defiance Ferry terminal with about a 15 minute ferry ride to the island. I had been to Vashon Island before in 2021 and brought my car which I think makes the experience more accessible and enjoyable as many things on the island are spread apart. For live updates on your ferry’s arrival time, I found the vessel watch site to be the most helpful.
Checking into The Lodges
Prior to arrival, I received a text summary of the codes needed to enter my specific lodge, the communal spaces, and general information. I selected the Meadow King suite based on the luxurious shower accommodations, places to nestle up throughout the day, and the large and comfortable bed which did not disappoint. Each lodge is like its own apartment and the lodge grounds were peaceful as I checked in. It’s a spacious suite so it felt like there was plenty of room to breathe with ample space for my luggage for the stay.
A Day at The Lodge
My morning routine has always been a staple in my life since I started yoga each morning at the ripe age of 10. So waking up to the suite illuminating with natural light from the windows was a treat. I love starting my day with a cup of tea as I journal and read a chapter of a book. After some energizing tea and stimulating my mind, I wake up my body with a refreshing yoga sequence. This year, I started incorporating running into my daily life and it has definitely changed my life for the better. It truly felt invigorating leaving my lodge and stepping out to the crisp smell of overnight rain on the floor and trees. I think I am truly embracing the PNW girl in me!
Just a 5 minute jog from the Lodges, you’ll find the downtown Vashon Island area with bookstores, cafes, and a movie theater, where I later saw the Barbie movie. After running for about a mile straight, I stopped at the locally owned Vashon Thriftway for custom sandwiches to enjoy for lunch.
As I started my work day I alternated between working at the Public House communal space, which offered an oversized table for a productive session and a lounge area during breaks, and the table inside my Meadow Suite. In between calls and emails, I relaxed at The Pavilion at the Lodge, an open-air space with comfy rocking chairs and a place to just relax when you need a much needed break.
After ticking off my professional to-dos, I turned my attention to relishing the true essence of leisure at The Lodges on Vashon. Rather that be nestled up in a great book or exploring the local sights, I felt like I truly got the most out of each day during my getaway.
Things to Do In Vashon Island
Lavender Hill Farm House
Upon arrival at Vashon Island, I made it to the very last day of the 2023 Lavender Farm season for lavender cutting and photos. The Lavender Hill Farm is home to 20 varieties of lavender and hosts a shop where you can purchase items like lavender soda, lavender cookies and skincare items. I overcame my fear of bumblebees as I walked between rows to cut my very own lavender bouquet!
KVI Beach
KVI Beach, celebrated as the best place to build a sandcastle, was one of the destinations I perused through after work to enjoy the sun and watch the waves. If you have a dog, this is the perfect place for you and your furry friend. There were at least half a dozen dogs I passed by within the first few minutes of entering. It’s worth a short stroll or even for a picnic set up.
Point Robinson Lighthouse
Point Robinson, the jewel of Vashon Island, is actually still an active lighthouse that helped guide sailors since 1885. Both times I’ve visited the area, I arrived at sunset and the views were amazing. I also discovered that there are Lighthouse tours available. If you plan to visit Vashon Island, you can partake in organized tours available every Sunday from mid-May through mid-September. Given the island’s geographic position, its rich maritime history forms the heart of the local culture, making it a fascinating destination for exploration.
Recap
Over the course of my three-day working staycation at The Lodges on Vashon, I was able to fully embrace the work-from-home traveler lifestyle. Just a quick ferry ride from Seattle, the Lodges provide an oasis of peace and tranquility on beautiful Vashon Island. With each lodge offering home comforts and plenty of space, my Meadow King Suite became a sanctuary for both work and relaxation. Balancing the daily grind with energizing yoga and running routines, while indulging in the island’s local offerings, added to the overall experience.
Unforgettable visits to the Lavender Hill Farm, KVI Beach, and the historic Point Robinson Lighthouse offered enriching adventures during downtime. With all this wrapped up in the serene Pacific Northwest landscape, The Lodges on Vashon prove to be a must-visit for those seeking a unique work-from-home destination, combining productivity and exploration in equal measure. Whether it’s for a quick stay or an extended work-vacation, this Vashon Island gem is well worth considering in your travel plans.
As always,
Take it step by step and day by day
Wow! You have inspired me to explore the local islands in the area, I look forward to hearing about your next workcation!