When visiting Seattle, many travelers envision adventures on the Olympic Peninsula, the San Juan Islands, and Mount Rainier National Park. Yet, numerous counties offer unique explorations, and Kitsap County is one such destination. A brief ferry ride from downtown Seattle leads directly to the heart of Kitsap County, where various attractions await. Rent a bike or a car and head to the ferry terminal to discover the prime activities just outside of Seattle.

Explore Bainbridge Island

Upon disembarking from the ferry, Bainbridge Island serves as an excellent first stop, easily accessible from Seattle. Here, visitors can explore Blakely Lake, Gazzam Lake Preserve, and Grand Forest West, all offering exceptional hiking routes, picturesque views, and abundant wildlife sightings. A unique experience awaits in the form of Sakai, a troll statue that is part of a larger installation known as Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King. This initiative aims to foster Danish-American relations while highlighting environmental sustainability. Six massive, hand-crafted troll sculptures created by Danish artist Thomas Danbo are scattered throughout the Pacific Northwest; five reside in and around Seattle, with one located in Portland, Oregon. To find Sakai and others, visit the Way of the Bird King website for an engaging journey. Moreover, Bainbridge Island boasts a reputation for excellent coffee and craft beer. Consider stopping by Pegasus Coffee and Bainbridge Brewing during your tour.

Hiking Opportunities in County and State Parks

Delve into the natural beauty of Kitsap County through its trails and parks. Many locations offer stunning views of the Olympic Mountains on clear days, adding to your outdoor adventure.

Point No Point County Park

This quaint county park follows the shoreline, providing opportunities for wildlife observation. It serves as a notable spot for fishing and holds historical significance, marked by the signing of a treaty between native tribes and the U.S. government concerning land transfer.

Visitors can relish the natural beauty, with views of the Olympic Mountains visible from the shoreline surrounded by wetlands. A small picnic area with tables offers a relaxing spot to enjoy some lunch while observing orcas. Alternatively, stroll along one of the region’s most picturesque beaches.

Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve

This hidden gem in Kitsap County may appear modest at first glance, but it features two short trails leading to different attractions. One trail takes you to a beach where you can witness salmon swimming upstream, while the other leads to the iconic stump house. This man-made structure, carved from a tree stump, was created by a man seeking refuge during prohibition, residing there for months.

Nicks Lagoon

Nicks Lagoon stands out as a major attraction for those interested in observing hundreds of great blue herons nesting in close proximity. The cacophony created by these birds offers a spectacular wildlife viewing opportunity.

Discover Poulsbo

Poulsbo, affectionately known as “Little Norway,” is a charming town filled with delightful coffee shops, including Caffe Cocina , which features scrumptious gluten- and dairy-free options. The town also boasts shops, wine bars such as Details Wine Bar , and one of the finest bakeries, Sluy’s Poulsbo Bakery .

Poulsbo is a must-visit destination within Kitsap County, providing an ideal setting for an overnight stay. Adjacent to a delightful Italian restaurant, Sogno di Vino, is the charming little boutique Hotel Scandi, perfect for a rest.

Additional Towns Worth Visiting

Other notable towns to explore include Gig Harbor and Port Ludlow. Twilight enthusiasts may wish to venture to Port Townsend and Port Angeles for their cinematic connections.

Dining Options Along the Way

While traversing the Kitsap Peninsula, consider stopping at exceptional dining spots such as Greenwoodes Farm and Organic Baked Goods in Hainesville and The Boat Shed in Bremerton. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to sit in the outdoor dock area at The Boat Shed, offering spectacular views and a chance to spot local harbor seals.

Final Reflections

For those seeking to escape the Seattle area and immerse themselves in the Pacific Northwest’s charm, Kitsap Peninsula is an ideal destination for a day or two of exploration. The summer months provide the best experience, characterized by sunny weather and breathtaking views along the extensive shoreline. For further exploration within Washington state, consider Skagit County, another hidden gem just an hour’s drive from Seattle.