The Puget Sound

The Puget Sound is the second-largest estuary in the United States and consisting of over 170 islands. Located in the rain shadow of Olympic National Park—one of the largest temperate rainforests on the planet. Visitors are drawn to the region for its mild year-round climate, easy access, relaxed pace, fresh food, abundant wildlife, and world-class quality of life. Long before Captain Puget's arrival, the Coast Salish people inhabited this region—and still do. The designation "Salish Sea" represents an expanded territory of water that honors these Indigenous cultures.

One of the West Coast's most iconic cities -The Emerald City—Seattle offers a blend of culture, history, and stunning waterfront views. Start at Pike Place Market along the central cobblestone road in front of the first Starbucks, located in the heart of the 100-year-old farmers market. Wander down toward the water, past local restaurants, art booths, and farm-fresh fruit stands, then cross over the brand-new passenger bridge to the Seattle's Water Park and Colman Ferry Terminal. Before hopping on your ferry to the islands, make time for some must-visit local establishments, including The Edgewater Restaurant, Pike Bar and Grill, and Old Stove Brewery. Ferries, cruise-liners, seaplanes, and trains are ready to go!

A scenic 35-minute ferry ride takes you directly to Bainbridge Island from downtown Seattle. Known for its lush forests, stunning waterfront views, high-end homes, and vibrant, hip community, Bainbridge Island offers a safe, peaceful small-town feel with big-city access. The island’s main hub is charming downtown Winslow, where quaint boutique lodging, art museums, farm-to-table dining, and local wine tasting make a stroll down Main Street a visitor’s dream. With the state’s top-rated schools and an exceptional quality of life, Bainbridge Island is an ideal place to put down roots. Our honorable mentions include Ba Sa, Bruciato, Pegasus Coffee, and Winslow’s one and only Ale House

Vashon Island, is a scenic, rural retreat in Puget Sound, accessible only by ferry from Seattle, Tacoma, and the Kitsap Peninsula. Known for its vibrant arts community, the island is home to numerous galleries, studios, and artisan shops. Visitors can explore tranquil beaches and rolling farmland, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Vashon also boasts a thriving local food scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, and farmers' markets offering fresh, organic produce. Wildlife lovers can often spot orcas, bald eagles, and harbor seals while enjoying the island’s stunning waterfront views.

Drive onto the Bainbridge ferry in Seattle, and after a quick sail and a 20-minute drive, you’ll arrive in the historic town of Poulsbo Washington. Known as "Little Norway," this small, quirky, and beloved getaway sits along the shores of Liberty Bay on the Olympic Peninsula. Wander down Front Street to shop for unique Norwegian trinkets or explore local art in Poulsbo's vibrant Arts District. Waterfront restaurants are scattered throughout town, offering some of the best marina views. For the late-night crowd, bars, the famous fish house, and the locals' favorite six-stop brewery crawl make for a fun night out! Don’t miss The Kraken waterfront restaurant, Sluys' Famous Bakery (the line is worth the wait), Poulsbohemian Coffee House, and be sure to find the Norwegian staircase to Volhol Brewing.

Kingston Washington, know as the "Little City by the Sea" is a non-stop, 40-minute high-speed ferry ride from Seattle or a 20-minute ferry from Edmonds, WA. Nestled along the shores of Apple Tree Cove, is a quintessential Pacific Northwest port town, with locally crafted brewpubs, homemade ice cream, boutique wineries, and some of the best coffee shop experiences around. Grab your golf clubs and head to the region’s famous White Horse Golf Resort, or during high tide, launch your kayak and paddle down Carpenter Creek for a locals-only wildlife adventure.The Kingston Ale House and Over the Moon Coffee Roasters are just steps from the ferry terminal. 

Under the shadow of Mt. Rainier sits a delightful maritime city just past the Tacoma Narrows bridge. Gig Harbor - “The Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. Stay at locally owned hotels, savor fresh caught seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, or unwind at a scenic park. Feel like exploring? Stroll along Gig Harbor’s historic waterfront, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and the Harbor History Museum. Our go-to spots include Gig Harbor Gondola boat tours, Gig Harbor Wine Company, Heritage Distilling, or simply find any waterfront bench and watch a peaceful sunset.

Anderson Island – the "secret island" – is located at the southernmost tip of Puget Sound, beneath the shadows of Mt. Rainier. This small, lesser-known island offers full amenities, friendly locals, social events, miles of pristine Pacific Northwest coastline, two freshwater lakes, and some of the purest drinking water in the state. We are currently focused on Anderson Island due to its affordable entry price and exceptional HOA landowner benefits. With reasonable dues, a welcoming community, and breathtaking landscapes, this island is the ideal second home, vacation destination, or retirement paradise. Anderson Island is accessible by Washington State Ferries every 45 minutes, with a quick 20-minute sail from Steilacoom.

Victoria Canada is accessible by a 1.5-hour ferry from Port Angeles or a 2.5-hour high-speed ferry from the Seattle wharf. However, our absolute favorite way to reach Victoria, Canada, is by hopping on a Kenmore Air seaplane from South Lake Union in downtown Seattle. The 45-minute flight offers spectacular views of the island chain, cedar forests, farms, and wildlife. Flying into the famous Inner Harbor is an unforgettable experience. Victoria is a city that locals proudly call home for its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant community. From the charming streets of downtown, with its heritage architecture and quaint coffee shops, to the serene coastline, perfect for sunset strolls, Victoria offers something special year-round.