Nearly 1,000 Islanders and visitors to Vashon flocked to Point Robinson on Saturday for the Island’s sixth annual Low Tide Celebration.

Under sunny skies, beach-goers discovered an array of sea animals at the point, revealed by one of the lowest tides of the summer — a -2.6 that occurred at about noon. Vashon Beach Naturalists were on hand to tell stories about the animals, answer questions and lead games for children.

In one of the most memorable moments of the day, the Blue Heron, a traditional Salish canoe, arrived from across Puget Sound and was welcomed with a traditional Salish song led by the Vashon Junior Beach Naturalists. The canoe’s crew stayed to participate in the celebration and gave canoe rides to children.

Rayna Holtz, a leader of the Vashon Beach Naturalists, said Saturday’s celebration drew the largest crowd ever.

“I think it was one of the best Low Tide Celebrations yet, with sunshine, lots of engaged people, and great talks. … People weren’t just playing in the sand; they were really learning about the shoreline.”