It’s just a little bit magical.

Usually covered by salty sea water, the bay is laid bare by the tide, providing a path to a tiny island inhabited by geese, sea cucumbers, black-clawed crabs, shaggy mouse sea slugs, and sunstars.

Indian Island is welcoming more and more visitors with the arrival of spring. Last week, on April 29 and 30, locals and tourists could be seen trekking from Eastsound Waterfront Park to the island, meeting up with Indian Island Marine Health Observatory volunteers. On our visit, we were privy to the rare sighting of a crimson-colored octopus, lusciously curling his dainty tentacles against the rocks.

Throughout the summer, the community is invited to participate in monthly field studies on Indian Island during the low tide; for future dates, visit www.indianisland.info. It’s a chance to learn about the unique marine life of our home waterfront.

It’s also a chance to be conscious of our impact on the environment. The marine health observatory offers the following tips for “tide pool etiquette.”

• Avoid stepping on marine animals or eelgrass meadows.

• Observe animals in their natural habitats without picking them up or disturbing them.

• If you must touch, touch gently. Wet your hands first. This is important. If an animal tries to escape, let it go. Do not poke at animals or pry them off rocks.

• If you turn over a rock, gently replace it exactly how you found it.

• Keep your dogs leashed and clean up after them.

So put on your wellies and a dab of sunscreen, grab a camera and your kids, and head out to the magical island. Just do it responsibly.