General Things To Do
Although we’re not a big city like Seattle, Kitsap County offers plenty of activities to enjoy. With water all around, outdoor recreation is a favorite pastime, from boating to beachcombing. The area also has great restaurants and fun family-friendly attractions. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Kitsap!
Visit Poulsbo
Poulsbo, Washington, often called "Little Norway," is a charming waterfront town located on the Kitsap Peninsula. Nestled along Liberty Bay, it boasts a rich Scandinavian heritage, reflected in its Nordic-inspired architecture, bakeries, and annual festivals like Viking Fest. The town offers stunning views, a vibrant downtown with unique shops and restaurants, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, boating, and hiking. Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Poulsbo provides a perfect mix of small-town charm and Pacific Northwest beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors and a beloved home for residents.
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) showcases contemporary Puget Sound artists with rotating exhibits and a permanent collection. Offering free admission, it fosters community engagement through events and education. Its modern design and vibrant programs make it a cultural gem of the Pacific Northwest.
Point No Point Lighthouse
The Point No Point Lighthouse, built in 1879, is the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound, located in Hansville, Washington. This historic landmark features a charming white tower and keeper’s quarters, offering stunning views of the water and wildlife. Now automated, it remains an active aid to navigation and a popular destination for visitors exploring the beach, birdwatching, or learning about maritime history.
Scenic Beach State Park
Scenic Beach State Park, located in Seabeck, Washington, is a picturesque waterfront park known for its stunning views of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains. This 88-acre park features sandy beaches, lush forests, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Popular for kayaking, beachcombing, and sunset watching, it’s a favorite spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventure in the Pacific Northwest.
Tour the USS Turner Joy
The USS Turner Joy (DD-951) is a retired U.S. Navy destroyer now serving as a museum ship in Bremerton, Washington. Best known for its role in the Gulf of Tonkin Incident, which escalated U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, the ship offers visitors a chance to explore its decks, engine rooms, and historical exhibits. Moored at the Bremerton waterfront, it provides a hands-on experience of naval history and military life.
Visit Port Gamble
Port Gamble, Washington, is a historic waterfront town on the Kitsap Peninsula, known for its well-preserved 19th-century New England-style architecture. Established in 1853 as a lumber mill town, it is now a charming destination with quaint shops, museums, and scenic views of Hood Canal. Visitors enjoy exploring its rich history, outdoor trails, and annual events like the Port Gamble Ghost Conference and Medieval Faire.
Clearwater Casino
Clearwater Casino, located in Suquamish, Washington, is a waterfront gaming and entertainment destination owned by the Suquamish Tribe. It features a variety of slot machines, table games, and a poker room, along with a luxury hotel, spa, and multiple dining options. With live entertainment, stunning views of Agate Passage, and cultural influences from the tribe, it offers a unique mix of excitement and relaxation in the Pacific Northwest.
