Get Here, Slow Down

A short ferry ride and a scenic island drive brings you to Iola Gardens—nestled near Dockton Park on the peaceful south end of Vashon Island.

Ferry Routes to Vashon Island

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Ferry Routes to Vashon Island *

📍 Iola Gardens
22834 Dockton Rd SW
Vashon, WA 98070
Near Dockton Park & Quartermaster Harbor

Most frequent route from Seattle

West Seattle: Fauntleroy ↔ Vashon ~20 min

Guests from Olympic Peninsula

Kitsap Peninsula: Southworth ↔ Vashon ~13 min

Closest to Iola Gardens

Tacoma: Point Defiance ↔ Tahlequah ~15 min

🔗Washington State Ferries Schedule

From Vashon Ferry Terminal (Fauntleroy – West Seattle Route)

Approx. 20–25 minutes

After exiting the ferry at the Vashon Terminal (from Fauntleroy), you’ll be on Vashon Hwy SW heading south into the island.

  1. Continue south on Vashon Hwy SW for about 8 miles.
    You’ll pass through Vashon’s town center (a great place to stop for coffee or groceries), and continue through forested stretches and farmland.

  2. Turn left onto SW Dockton Road.
    This turn comes just after the entrance to the Island Center Forest trails. There’s a clear street sign, and the road curves slightly as you enter.

  3. Stay on Dockton Road SW for approximately 4 miles.
    The road winds through trees and opens up near the harbor. You’ll pass Quartermaster Harbor and the entrance to Dockton Park on your right.

  4. Iola Gardens is on your left, just past 228th Ave SW.
    Look for our discreet signage and gravel entrance. Staff or signage will guide you during events.

*If you pass Dockton Marina or the water's edge, you’ve gone just a bit too far—loop back and look for the entrance near the treeline.

Driving Directions

From Tahlequah Ferry Terminal (Point Defiance – Tacoma Route)

Approx. 12–15 minutes

After disembarking the ferry at the Tahlequah Terminal on the southern tip of Vashon Island:

  1. Continue straight onto Vashon Hwy SW. You'll pass through forest and residential areas—watch for deer and cyclists.

  2. After approximately 2 miles, turn right onto SW Dockton Road. This turn comes just after a small curve in the road and is clearly marked.

  3. Follow Dockton Road SW for about 3.5 miles as it winds downhill toward the water. You'll pass Dockton Forest trails, views of the harbor, and finally, Dockton Park on your right.

  4. Iola Gardens is just beyond the park, on the left-hand side, across from a small wooded area. Look for subtle signage and entry markers.

*If you reach the marina or the water, you’ve just passed us—loop back about 200 yards.

Parking at Iola Gardens

On-site parking at Iola Gardens is limited, especially during larger events. To help things flow smoothly, we offer the following options:

  • Designated on-site parking for key guests, vendors, and accessibility needs

  • Overflow parking available nearby, coordinated with our neighboring properties

  • Shuttle service or carpool plans can be arranged for larger groups

We’ll work with you to create a custom parking plan that fits your event and keeps the arrival experience relaxed and organized.

Want more travel tips?

The Vashon-Maury Island Chamber offers up-to-date ferry info, tips for car-free travel, and guidance on navigating the island like a local.