Edmonds Day Trip
Seaside Charm, Whale Watching, Marina Walks & Local Shops
Edmonds is a charming seaside town with sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, ferries, beaches, and a walkable downtown full of local shops and cafés. It is a perfect day trip for travelers who want to slow down, get close to the water, and experience a classic Pacific Northwest waterfront town.
This itinerary is designed for visitors staying in Bellevue who want an easy coastal escape: start with coffee, choose a whale watching cruise or ferry ride, stroll the marina, browse downtown shops, enjoy a casual seafood lunch, then return to Bellevue for the evening.
Getting There from Bellevue
Edmonds is an easy regional day trip from Bellevue by car or rideshare. Plan to arrive early, especially if you are booking a whale watching tour or want time to enjoy the marina before downtown gets busier.
Start near the Edmonds waterfront and marina, then work your way into downtown on foot.
Vuefinder Tip: If whale watching is part of your plan, book ahead and check departure times before you go. Marina parking and ferry-area traffic can be busier on weekends and sunny days.
Morning: Coffee Before the Water
Begin your day at Walnut Street Coffee, a local favorite known for coffee, pastries, and satisfying breakfast sandwiches. It is a great first stop before heading toward the marina.
If you want something hearty before a morning on the water, try one of their breakfast sandwiches and bring your coffee with you for the walk toward the waterfront.
Late Morning: Choose Your Water Adventure
Edmonds is all about the water, so build the day around one signature experience.
Option 1: Whale Watching with Puget Sound Express
For the most memorable version of the day, book a whale watching trip with Puget Sound Express. Departing from the Edmonds marina, this experience gets visitors out onto Puget Sound for the chance to see whales, marine wildlife, mountain views, and the surrounding coastline.
This is the anchor activity for travelers who want a true Pacific Northwest water adventure.
Option 2: Walk Onto the Kingston Ferry
If you want to get on the water without booking a full whale watching tour, walk onto the Edmonds-Kingston ferry. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and it gives the day that classic Northwest ferry feeling.
Once in Kingston, take a short walk, snap a photo in the giant lawn chairs, grab a slice of pizza or a quick snack, then ferry back to Edmonds.
Vuefinder Tip: The ferry option is simple, scenic, and flexible — great for travelers who want a low-pressure boat experience.
Midday: Marina Stroll & Downtown Wandering
After returning from whale watching or the ferry, take time to walk through the Edmonds marina and waterfront area. Watch the boats, enjoy the mountain views, and ease into the slower pace of the town.
From the marina, make your way into downtown Edmonds. The downtown core is one of the best parts of the day: compact, friendly, and filled with independent shops that feel personal and locally rooted.
A few standout stops include:
Terry’s Toy Chest
A playful local shop and official Jellycat retailer, perfect for families, gifts, or a whimsical souvenir.
Treasured Teas
A cozy tea shop with an excellent loose-leaf tea selection and giftable souvenirs. It is a great stop for tea lovers looking for something easy to bring home.
The Edmonds Bookshop
A proper independent bookstore with shelves worth lingering over and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
Cline Jewelers
A special stop for travelers looking for a meaningful keepsake, with in-house jewelry and a beautiful selection.
Driftwood Modern
A curated gallery and vintage shop where visitors can find unique pieces with character.
Lunch: Seafood or Caribbean Flavors
For lunch, keep the day casual and coastal.
Choose Market Edmonds Seafood for shrimp tacos, fish and chips, and an easy seafood-focused meal that fits the waterfront setting.
For something a little different, try Maize & Barley for Caribbean-inspired flavors and a relaxed downtown stop.
Afternoon: One Last Waterfront Moment
Before heading back to Bellevue, take one final walk by the water. Edmonds is best enjoyed without rushing, so leave a little time to sit near the beach, watch the ferry come and go, or take in the Olympic Mountain views.
If the weather is clear, this is a great moment for photos and a slower end to the day.
Vuefinder Local Tips
Arrive early if you plan to go whale watching.
Book water experiences in advance when possible.
Bring layers — the waterfront and ferry can feel breezy.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking between the marina and downtown.
Leave time to browse shops instead of rushing through them.
Check ferry and tour schedules before building your day around the water.
End Your Day Back in Bellevue
After a day of Puget Sound views, whale watching, ferry rides, marina walks, local shops, and seafood, return to Bellevue for a comfortable evening in your regional basecamp. Bellevue keeps visitors connected to the best of the region — from seaside towns and island ferries to wine country, mountain foothills, lakefront communities, and Seattle’s urban energy.
Stay in Bellevue and explore the Pacific Northwest from one easy, comfortable home base.