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.

Poulsbo Washington

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 Washington

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

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