Anderson Island is a peaceful, largely residential retreat with around 1,000 year-round residents, swelling with visitors in the summer. Surrounded by scenic waters and views of Mount Rainier, the island offers tranquil beaches, hiking trails, and two freshwater lakes, making it a hidden gem for those seeking quiet living or vacationing close to Tacoma and Seattle.
The Ol’ Swimmin' Hole has been a locals favorite on Lake Florence since before electricity was introduced in the 1960’s. The ideal spot on a hot August day: a grassy park with picnic tables, BBQ's, a sandy beach, and a spring-fed lake. Bring the kids, the volleyball, or paddle board, slap on the sunscreen and spend the day at the beach on the island. Weather you choose Lake Florence or Lake Josephine you will be minutes from the country store and cafe for all your last minute vacation needs. Grass hat and sunglasses recommended.
Lake Shore Restaurant. Paddle up to the Lakeshore Restaurant on Lake Josephine—or drive if that’s more your speed. Enjoy dinner in the dining room, a local microbrew at the bar, or a cocktail on the sunny patio. With weekly events, live music, karaoke, and friendly faces, it’s a lively island hub—just 6 minutes from the ferry, with food to-go if you're in a hurry.
Executive Golf Course. Grab your clubs and enjoy the privacy and challenge of the gorgeous executive Riviera golf course. The intimate 9-hole track, snakes through high-end country homes, old growth evergreen trees, winds past the pro shop, and after your final putt step inside the Lakeshore Restaurant bar for a beer or a bite. Play at your own pace, golf carts allowed on island roads, and watch out for deer crossing your putting line. One of the prettiest golf courses in the NW!
A Private Marina is located along the east shore of the island, overlooking the Nisqually Reach aquatic reserve with views of Mt. Rainer and Ketron Island. Riviera Club members receive private use of a beautiful saltwater dock and also own not-easy to find moorage rights! Sail off into the Salish Sea or invite your friends and family to dock up and visit. Fill up the BBQ or drop in a kayak. 10-minute drive to the ferry, 6-minutes to the Country Store. Boaters, we recommend the 30-min cruise to Gig Harbor and dock up at one of many restaurants and bars.
Historic Johnson Farm is a century-old pioneer farm has an apple orchard,13 historic buildings, and a small museum and gift shop that is stuffed with everyday treasures tracing the island's history. Take a step back in time and walk the rolling grassy fields, tour the original farm buildings, or pick some sweet fruit. A community garden, art and movie festivals, weddings, and concerts turn this sleepy winter farm into a popular summer destination.
Eagle Island is a wildlife preserve in the middle of Balch’s Passage, accessible only by boat or kayak and just a stones throw away off the north tip of Anderson Island. The constant ebb and flow and shifting tide make this a nutrient rich animal sanctuary. From the tiny island, keep a look out for seal pups, Chinook salmon, bald eagles, and Mt. Rainier in the distance. Peaceful beach combing or an adventure, Eagle Island is your off-the-beaten-path destination.
Private Lake Access to your own personal dock for a swim, morning coffee, cast out a fishing line, or drop in a kayak? The locals all know about the private Riviera docks that dot the shores of lake Josephine. On any afternoon, these easily accessible member entry points are typically quiet and as peaceful as you can imagine. No motorboats on Lake Josephine which we absolutely love! My family has spent many nights on a few beach chairs with the whole place to ourselves.
Private camping, cabin, or RV’ing on the island belongs exclusively to Riviera property owners. Members and their guests enjoy 14 complimentary camping nights and discounted rates for additional stays. Spend a summer evening tenting or a winter night in a cozy old-school forest cabin! In the summer spots fill up fast so reservations are recommended. Minutes away from the country store and Lakeshore Restaurant for orders to-go and supplies.