The Puget Sound Islands

The Puget Sound waterways are fed by freshwater from 19 different rivers. Long before Captain Puget's arrival, the Salish People inhabited this region and still do. The designation "Salish Sea" honors these indigenous cultures. The Washington State Ferry system is the largest in the United States, connecting passengers to the islands of the Puget Sound, San Juan’s, and Vancouver Island region. The iconic green-and-white vessels cruise through some of the Pacific Northwest‘s most picturesque and iconic coastlines. The ferry’s operate year-round, with live time tracking systems, coffee bars, local wines, cafes, and rooftop sun decks. See our honorable island destinations below. 

One of the West Coast's most iconic cities is The Emerald City—Seattle. This vibrant metropolis offers a unique blend of culture, history, and culinary diversity. Begin your journey at Pike Place Market, where you can explore local artisan shops, enjoy the fragrance of fresh-cut farm flowers, and sample the freshest wild Alaskan salmon. Along the central cobblestone road, don’t miss the chance to visit the famous first Starbucks. But..before hopping on your ferry to the islands, make time for some must-visit spots, including Palace Kitchen, Edgewater Restaurant, Pike Bar and Grill, and Zig Zag Café, where you can savor a local artisan craft cocktail.

Bainbridge Island stands as the gem of the Kitsap Peninsula. Known for its lush forests, stunning waterfront views, high-end homes, and vibrant hip community. The main hub is charming downtown Winslow, with its quaint shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table eateries. Miles of hiking trails and pristine beaches offer outdoor seekers plenty to do. Our honorable mentions include the Streamliner Diner for breakfast, Amy's Veg House, Pegasus Coffee for a morning cup of Joe or Friday evening live music, and overlooking Eagle Harbor, we highly recommend Winslow's one and only Public House!

Do not pass up this delightful maritime village just past the Tacoma Narrows bridge. This fancy and slow paced harbor town combines culture and outdoor activities, celebrating a rich maritime heritage. Stay at charming, locally-owned hotels, try freshly caught seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, or relax at a small wine bar. Feel like waliking, explore Gig Harbor's history along its waterfront, adorned with galleries, boutiques, and the Harbor History Museum. Our go-to’s include, Gig Harbor Gondola boat tours, Tides Pub on the water, Heritage Distilling Company, the Kiss Cafe along the harbor‘s north end, or just find any waterfront bench and watch a sunset. 

Poulsbo's historic “Little Norway” is a small, quirky, and beloved getaway along the shores of Liberty Bay in Kitsap County. Wander down Front Street to look at galleries, museums, shop for unique Norwegian trinkets or grab some wine in Poulsbo's vibrant Arts District. Waterfront restaurants are scattered around town with some of the best views of the marina and boats sailing back and forth. For the later evening crowd, bars, the famous fish house, and the locals favorite 6-stop brewery crawl is so fun! Don't miss the Kraken waterfront restaurant, the Slippery Pig Brewery, Sluys famous bakery (the line is worth the wait), the Poulsbohemian Coffee House, and find the decorated secret alley leading to Casa Luna Mexican restaurant. 

Since you’ve never been to Suquamish Washington…It’s off the beaten path between Bainbridge Island and Kingston, tucked along the protected shores of Port Madison. You can easily miss the tiny fishing village and home to Chief Seattle's historic and sacred burial grounds, Old Man House beach, and the most peaceful public dock you will find on the Puget Sound. Suquamish offers a glimpse into the natural history and quiet solitude of the old Pacific Northwest. Enjoy a meal at the waterfront restaurant, pick up essentials at the country store, attend a ceremonial salmon smoke, and check out the cedar dugout canoes. Come to Suquamish for a lesson in the ways of life of the Suquamish Native Americans. It’s worth the detour. Highly recommended is the Tribal History Museum. 

Kingston Washington, wrapped around the shores of Apple Tree Cove is a quintessential Pacific Northwest port town with locally crafted cozy brewpubs, homemade ice cream, local boutique wineries, and some of the best coffee shop experiences around. Direct high speed ferry access to Seattle make this town a central crossroads. During high tide, grab your kayak and paddle under the Arness Park bridge for a wetland adventure. The Kingston Ale House, Over the Moon Coffee Roasters, Island Ice Creamery, and Willy's Sourdough pizza are our local hangouts. 

On the southernmost tip of the Puget Sound you'll find Anderson Island. The “secret island” has full amenities, friendly folk, social events, and miles of pristine Pacific Northwest coastlines. A 25-minute drive from Tacoma, 60 minutes from Seattle, a 2-hour drive from Portland, and a 2.5-hour flight from San Francisco lands you at the ferry to Anderson Island in the South Puget Sound. Accessed by Washington State every 45-minutes. A 20-minute sail from Steilacoom but feels like million miles away.

Victoria, Canada, 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, where heritage architecture meets bustling coffee shops and artisan boutiques, to the serene coastline perfect for sunset strolls, Victoria offers something special year-round. Locals cherish hidden gems like Fisherman’s Wharf for fresh seafood, Beacon Hill Park for its lush gardens, and the Galloping Goose Trail for cycling or walking adventures. The Victoria Clipper is a high speed ferry that takes just 2.5 hours to sail to Victoria from Seattle. A must try adventure!