Tucked into the corner of the Pacific Northwest, beneath the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the Puget Sound islands are scattered across miles of saltwater, an easy ferry ride from the city.
From Bainbridge Island and the shorelines of the Kitsap Peninsula to Anderson Island in the South Puget Sound, explore our favorite waterfront towns, beaches, restaurants and insider tips for exploring the region.
Whether you're planning a trip or researching land investment opportunities, our recommendations are always within easy reach of Seattle and Tacoma.
Bainbridge Island Washington
A scenic 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle carries you across Puget Sound into Eagle Harbor and the Pacific Northwest's most sought-after island community. Peaceful neighborhoods, acclaimed restaurants, old-growth forest trails, sandy beaches, top-rated schools, and a relaxed island lifestyle minutes from the city.
Premier Island Living. Bainbridge is widely regarded as the region’s most prestigious island, known for its exceptional quality of life, luxury homes, and limited supply of land. Opportunities to own property here are increasingly rare, making it one of the most desirable places in the entire Pacific Northwest to visit, invest in or call home.
Winslow
Step off the ferry and stroll onto Main Street, lined with farm-to-table restaurants, cafés, independently owned boutiques, wineries, and the renowned Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.
With its walkable downtown and inviting atmosphere, Winslow has become one of Puget Sound's most desired destinations.
Don't miss the marina district, for waterfront restaurants overlooking Eagle Harbor, or take a stroll along the scenic boardwalk to enjoy marina views, public art, and the island's relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Eat: Sweetwater, Bruciato
Drink: Cafe Hitchcock
To Do: Bainbridge Island
Pleasant Beach Village
10-minutes from the ferry lies one of the island’s most sought-after secret neighborhoods. Locals often refer to this area as the "Gold Coast of Bainbridge."
The Tudor-style village is dotted with small local shops, a historic movie theater, live music, ice cream parlors, beautifully restored farmhouses, and elegant modern homes with sweeping water views. Time moves a little slower here.
Most visitors miss the short walk from the village square to Pleasant Beach, where passing ferries, panoramic views of Mount Rainier, and the occasional orca sighting create one of the island's most memorable waterfront settings.
Eat: Tree House Cafe
Drink: Marketplace
Stay: Pleasant Beach Inn
Rolling Bay
10-minutes north of the ferry terminal sits one of Bainbridge Island’s most historic communities.
Centered around a single stop sign, Rolling Bay feels like a place time forgot. At the heart of town is Bay Hay and Feed, a beloved old-school farm store that has been a gathering place for locals for decades.
Just up the road, don’t miss Raquel’s front yard farm stand, for the best small-batch artisan sourdough bread on the island. Handcrafted in limited amounts and shared through a simple honor-system.
Slow down, take the back roads, and discover the places most visitors drive right past.
Drink: Rolling Bay Winery
Eat: Raquels Farm Stand
Shop: Bay Hay and Feed
Fay Bainbridge Park
A 15-minute drive north from the ferry terminal brings you to one of Bainbridge Island’s most popular waterfront escapes, Fay Bainbridge Park.
Known for its sandy beach and sweeping views of Mount Rainier, this quiet shoreline park offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Spend the night at beachfront campsites, tucked-away forest tent sites, or newly renovated cabins, then spend the day exploring the beach, launching a kayak, enjoying a picnic, or letting the kids play at the waterfront playground.
Fay Bainbridge Park captures the slower pace and natural beauty that make island life so special.
To do: Fay Bainbridge Park
Colman Dock
Pier 52 serves as the primary gateway to the Islands. Located along Seattle’s Elliott Bay. The waterfront is the launch pad to board ferries, water taxis, and private charters, sailing throughout the Puget Sound and into Canada. Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and Waterfront Park are all within an easy walk of the terminal.
Washington State Ferry
Catching the iconic green “boat” is a regular part of life in the Pacific Northwest. The nation’s largest ferry fleet and modern terminal make travel over the pond easier than ever. Tap to pay, board, head up to the sun deck and enjoy the ride.
Local Insight: Summer sailings can get crowded, so planning ahead is recommended. The WSDOT app provides ticket purchases, real-time schedule updates, live ferry cameras and wait times. Don’t panic, ferries have a large selection of organic adult beverages, coffee, and plenty of kids snacks. Learn more through Washington State Ferry.
bainbridge kitsap anderson for sale about