Beyond the Seattle skyline lies a quieter side of the Pacific Northwest, a network of hidden islands, ferry crossings, and small towns.
The Seattle Islands stretch from Bainbridge Island along the shorelines of the Kitsap Peninsula to Anderson Island in the South Sound. See some of our favorite hand-picked islands, port towns, beaches and neighborhoods to explore, visit, or invest in, all within easy reach of Seattle and Tacoma.
Seattle Ferry Terminal. Colman Dock at Pier 52 serves as the primary gateway to the Islands. Located along Seattle’s Elliott Bay waterfront, the transit hub is the launch point for car ferries, high-speed passenger ferries, water taxis, and private charters, traveling throughout the Puget Sound and into Canada. Waterfront Park, Pike Place Market, and Pioneer Square are all within an easy walk of the terminal.
The Green Boat
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 upgrades make travel easier than ever. Once onboard, head up to the sun deck and enjoy the ride.
Local Insight: Summer sailings can get crowded, so planning ahead is recommended. The FerryFriend app provides real-time schedule updates and 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 Island
Bainbridge Island. A scenic 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle brings visitors to Winslow, often considered the heart of Bainbridge Island and one of the crown jewels of the Seattle Islands. Known for its upscale homes, forested surroundings, and strong sense of community, the walkable downtown features art galleries, museums, restaurants, cafés, and independent shops centered around a lively Main Street. With highly rated schools and an exceptional quality of life, Bainbridge Island offers the perfect mix of small-town charm, big city access, and Pacific Northwest living. Visit for the day, weekend, or make it a permanent home.
Eat: Pegasus coffee, Cafe Hitchcock
Drink: Eagle Harbor Wines
To Do: Bainbridge Island
Pleasant Beach village. Simply one of Bainbridge’s most sought-after neighborhoods, located at the island’s southernmost tip, 10 minutes from Winslow. The Tudor-style village has laid-back boutique shops, a historic movie theater, and boutique lodging. Take the short walk from the town square to Pleasant Beach, to find white sand, views of Mt. Rainier and the ferry passing by.
Eat: Tree House Cafe, Raices Cocina.
Drink: Marketplace
Stay: Pleasant Beach Inn
Rolling Bay. A short drive from the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal lies one of Bainbridge Island’s most charming hidden communities, a historic rural crossroads known for its small-town feel and agricultural roots. Centered around a single stop sign, the area is home to Bay Hay and Feed, a beloved old-fashioned farm store that has become a local gathering place featuring a café, plant nursery, clothing, gifts, produce, pet supplies, and just about everything else you need.
Drink: Rolling Bay Winery
Shop: Bay Hay and Feed
Eat: Briny Bagels
Poulsbo: Disembark after the 35-minute ferry to Bainbridge Island, then drive 11 miles, over the Agate Pass Bridge to historic Poulsbo, affectionately known as “Little Norway.” This quaint town on Liberty Bay is known for it’s laid back shopping scene, local art, plenty of breweries and a funky Norwegian vibe. Find the marina and walk up the wooden staircase overlooking the bay, settle in and enjoy your favorite meal at The Loft.
Drink: Food & Drink
Sweets: Sluey’s
To Do: Poulsbo
Kingston. Nicknamed the “Little City by the Sea,” Kingston sits along the shores of Apple Tree Cove, 40 minutes from Seattle by fast ferry or a short drive from Bainbridge Island. This small town offers a relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere with a marina, walkable downtown, local shops, waterfront restaurants. Be sure to stop at Sourdough Willy's, known for pizza crafted by a world-renowned master pizza maker.
Drink: Over the Moon, The Lounge
Shop: Shopping in town
Eat: Sourdough Willy’s
Anderson Island. Often called the “Secret Island,” AI sits quietly at the southernmost tip of the Puget Sound, 1.5 hours from Seattle, 30 minutes from Tacoma, and 2 hours from Portland. With a classic Northwest vibe and comparably cheaper land prices, it's ideal for a vacation retreat, recreation getaway or retirement escape. The ferry is quick and scenic from Steilacoom Washington.
Info: Riviera Community Club
Eat: Lakeside Restaurant
Ferry: Pierce County Ferry