Protection Island

Protection Island, located in the Salish Sea near the town of Port Townsend, is a unique and picturesque destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 364-acre island is a designated National Wildlife Refuge, providing a safe haven for a variety of seabirds, including tufted puffins, rhinoceros auklets, and bald eagles. The island is also home to a colony of harbor seals, which can often be spotted lounging on the rocky shores.

Visitors to Protection Island can take guided boat tours to observe the diverse bird and marine life that call the island home. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine creatures, making it an ideal spot for whale watching and kayaking. The island's pristine beaches are perfect for picnicking, beachcombing, and enjoying stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.

In addition to its natural beauty, Protection Island has a rich cultural and historical significance. The island has been inhabited by Coast Salish tribes for thousands of years, and artifacts dating back to prehistoric times have been discovered on its shores. The island's lighthouse, built in 1914, serves as a reminder of its maritime heritage and is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.