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This is the Only Travel Guide to Hayden Island That Covers It All!

| Last Updated: August 2025

Looking for a Portland escape without actually leaving the city? Say hello to Hayden Island – a water-wrapped neighborhood floating in the Columbia River. 

It’s the only island community in Portland and comes with its own marina, shopping scene, and even floating homes (yes, actual houses on water!)

Ready for a fun-filled day? Here’s the only guide you’ll need to make the most of this island!

Where is Hayden Island?

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Hayden Island is located in the middle of the Columbia River, where the Interstate 5 bridge crosses between Oregon and Washington. The island is also bordered by the North Portland Harbor.

What is the main road in Hayden Island?

The main road in Hayden Island is North Hayden Island Drive. It links residential areas and local businesses,

The island’s commercial activity centers around Jantzen Beach Center. It functions as the island’s primary destination for amenities.

How to get to Hayden Island

Via bus: TriMet’s Line 6 (MLK Jr Blvd) offers service to Hayden Island. You can board the bus at downtown Portland stops, such as along SW 5th Avenue, and get off at the Jantzen Beach Center. The ride typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes.

Via car: Hayden Island is accessible via Interstate 5 (I-5). Take Exit 308 (Jantzen Beach exit) and follow North Hayden Island Drive, which leads directly to the island’s residential areas. Depending on the traffic, the drive takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Via boat: Access Hayden Island via the Columbia River. Dock at marinas like Jantzen Bay Marina or Tomahawk Island Marina, both located along the island’s southern edge. 

What to Do and See in Hayden Island

1. Fish with Hook’em Up Guide Service

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Address: 200 N Lotus Beach Dr
Phone: +15035758755
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website

Nothing beats a beautiful day out in the sun, fishing, and the best company to try this out is Hooke’em Up Guide Services. Their guides are always friendly, professional, and really know where to find the best salmon and sturgeon in the Willamette River.

The best thing about them is the quality of service. For supplies, the fishing gear and bait are of the highest quality. The boats are all clean and well-maintained, so guests are safe and comfortable all throughout.

The tour is ideal for both experienced anglers and beginners. Plus, rates are reasonable, ranging from $200 to $300 per person. There’s an option to book either a full-day or half-day guided fishing trip.

2. Enjoy the views at Lotus Isle Park

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Address: 288 N Tomahawk Island Dr
Phone: +1 780-463-9467
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Lotus Isle Park is a small yet iconic spot on Hayden Island. It’s about the size of a city block, with plenty of things to see and do.

The park is known for its magical sunset views, especially as you pass by the colorful floating houses. You can also spot the remains of a footbridge in the water, which is a cool reminder of the old Lotus Island amusement park in the 1930s.

The park also offers a nice view of the Island Cover floating home community and a small sandy beach perfect for relaxing. For those with their pups, you can bring them to the off-leash area to play.

For a little extra treat, grab some food from the catering truck just down the street!

3. Learn sailing at Island Sailing School & Club

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Address: 515 NE Tomahawk Island Drive Slip D-85
Phone: +15032857765
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website

Island Sailing School & Club is the perfect spot for anyone looking into sailing. The school is a fully accredited American Sailing Association sailing school, so the standards are a cut above the rest.

For complete beginners, they can book the ASA 101 course, which covers fundamental knowledge and hands-on trials. There’s also an intermediate course, ideal for those who want to refine their techniques after finishing the beginner’s course.

As a member, you get access to their beautiful fleet of boats, which is an amazing perk if you want to maximize your investment. They even have a Monday night racing group where you can meet fellow sailing enthusiasts,

Where to Eat and Drink in Hayden Island

1. Hidden Bay Cafe

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Address: 515 NE Tomahawk Island Dr #105
Phone: +15032401871
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Good to know: Pet-friendly food stop

Hidden Bay Cafe is a small, tucked-away gem that’s worth every visit. It’s right next to the water, so guests get to enjoy stunning views of the boats, especially at night when the lights reflect off the water.

Some of the standout choices here are their meatloaf sandwich, which is just right to make you feel full but not lethargic. The burgers are amazing too, considering how the tender meat drips with smoky juices at every bite.

If you’re in the mood for something else, they also have cheeseburgers and lighter options like salad. The prices are just right for the portions you get, though we recommend just getting a few options that you can share.

2. 3 Sheets at the Harbor

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Address: 11505 NE Yacht Harbor Dr
Phone: +15038890490
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:

  • Monday – Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Thursday – Saturday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00  AM – 9:00 PM

Good to know: Awesome location by the water
Website

3 Sheets at the Harbor is a nice spot for those who want to unwind by the water. The bar is modern, so dining in solo or with your group is comfortable and easy. The prices are reasonable as well for the quality you’re getting.

Some of their best-sellers include the Dirty Fries. It’s crispy and light with Parmesan, pork belly, and truffle oil – it’s pretty hard to beat when it comes to savoriness. 

The Polish stir-fry is another must-try. It’s loaded with sausage, pierogies, wild mushrooms, sauerkraut, and sour cream.

The real treat, though, is the scallops. They’re freshly chucked and you can easily enjoy them with an order of Dobel Tequila. There’s a DJ outside, so with this chill meal and atmosphere, it’s definitely fun.

3. Denny’s

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Address: 11950 N Center Ave
Phone: +15032850735
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Good to know: Has drive-thru, Mexican-inspired fare
Website

Denny’s just knows how to serve a comfort meal. It’s ideal for medium-sized meals that can be shared among a small group. The portions aren’t the largest, but it’s not a dealbreaker for those who love shareable eats.

One of their best options is the Philly cheese steak omelet. It’s sautéed with caramelized onions, folded into buttery and fluffy eggs. For a breakfast treat, you can grab their lumberjack smash that comes with bacon, sausage, and ham.

Everyone who loves a hearty meal will enjoy their 13 oz. T-bone steak and eggs. This one comes made to order, with hash browns, two eggs, and either toast or pancakes.

Though if you’re serious about pancakes, you may just want to order the salted caramel banana pancake slam. It’s served with made-to-order eggs.

Where to Shop in Hayden Island

1. The Home Depot

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Address: 1728 N Tomahawk Island Dr
Phone: +15032899200
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Good to know: Home improvement for tools, appliances, and more

If you ever need tools or any home accessories during your stay in Hayden Island, The Home Depot carries everything you may ever need. The store is massive, but the layout makes it super easy to find everything.

It’s best to have an idea of what you need to get beforehand, considering it may take you hours of simply browsing. Once you have a list, you can reach out to the staff, so they can help you locate everything.

The store has everything under one roof, from tools to insulation materials. The best part is that if you catch a sale, you can snag some great deals. In general, though, the prices aren’t insane for common goods.

2. Duluth Trading Company

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Address: 12300 N Parker Ave
Phone: +15038678839
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Good to know: Wide selection of men’s and women’s workwear
Website

Duluth is the kind of place you go to if you’re looking for high-quality workwear. Plus, they have sizes for almost everyone, which is always a win. There are also a few options for high-quality gear for working individuals.

What makes this store even better is the convenience it offers. Return, delivery, and exchange policies are clear and flexible, plus the parking is even ADA accessible. They also have a “ship to store” pick-up option for hassle-free returns/replacements.

The prices are just relatively high, even during times when they’re offering 20% discounts. Still, the quality of the products is hard to beat. Staff are friendly as well, which makes the shopping experience better.

3. Sierra

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Address: 1805 N Tomahawk Island Dr
Phone: +15032408543
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Tuesday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Good to know: Department store
Website

As a department store, Sierra is always well-stocked with products that you’ll need on a daily basis. From pet supplies to shoes and outdoor gear, they have a little bit of everything.

For those camping in Hayden Island, the outdoor equipment selection at Sierra is impressive – solid quality at prices that won’t break the bank. If you love a good bargain, the clearance section is worth checking out.

The store is clean and well-organized, with fitting rooms and a customer restroom for convenience. If you ever need help, the staff is always quick to help, from helping you browse for goods to getting you through the checkout fast.

Where to Stay in Hayden Island

1. Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront, an IHG Hotel

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Address: 909 N Hayden Island Dr
Phone: +15032834466
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Open 24 hours 
Good to know: Has an electric vehicle charging station 
Website

Best stay in Hayden Island? Holiday Inn might just be the answer. The rooms are spacious, clean, and super comfy – with just enough space to relax and unwind. The rates aren’t crazy high either, which is perfect for longer-term stays.

If you book a room with a balcony, you’re treating yourself to the views of the Columbia River upon waking up. There’s even an outdoor jacuzzi, so you can enjoy a nice soak while enjoying stunning sunset views.

The amenities in general are sufficient, with in-room coffee, a fitness center, a courtyard, and a pool area. Parking is stress-free too, as the lot is well-lit with security on patrol at all times. 

2. Oxford Suites Portland – Jantzen Beach

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Address: 12226 N Jantzen Dr
Phone: +15032833030
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Open 24 hours 
Good to know: Has a bar and bistro on the ground floor
Website

Oxford Suites is perfectly located on Hayden Island, giving guests access to the Columbia River. The rooms are spacious, the beds are super comfortable, and the hot showers have excellent water pressure that feels like a treat.

The hotel also has some awesome amenities: a pool, hot tub, and spa for unwinding. You’ll love the on-site bar if you love socializing, especially when there’s a game on – just look forward to announcements on the board!

What’s nice is that the hotel offers special rates and perks for government travelers and seniors. They can enjoy up to 10% off their suites, so they can focus on putting money elsewhere – a plus since it’s close to local eats, events, and local shopping.

3. Jantzen Beach RV Park

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Address: 1503 N Hayden Island Dr
Phone: +18004437248
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Open 24 hours 
Good to know: Near many shops
Website

If you’re coming through with an RV, this may be the best spot for you. The park has all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay: free Wi-Fi and cable at all sites, heated pool and spas, and a game room for entertainment.

For those with their furry companions, you’ll love their spacious, pet-friendly spaces. For yourself and your friends, you may enjoy some time at the clubhouse with billiards and a fitness center.

Don’t like the fitness center? There are walking paths here along the Columbia River shoreline, perfect for a quick jog or a quiet stroll as the sun sets. The riverfront surroundings make it easy to enjoy nature at its fullest.

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