KITSAP
EXPLORATION
GUIDE
Kitsap County’s Visitor Guide
Your Field Guide to the Kitsap Peninsula
Powered by the Kitsap Tourism Coalition
Welcome to the
Kitsap Peninsula.
This guide will help you explore hundreds of miles of shoreline, as well as the parks, markets, festivals, museums, neighborhoods, restaurants, events, and local businesses that call Kitsap home.
happy as a clam
EAT & DRINK
EAT LIKE A
LOCAL
If you love delicious food + drink then you’re in the right place.
Kitsap’s unique collection of cafes, breweries, restaurants, food trucks, bars and bakeries offers something for every pallet and every craving. With a special emphasis on craft beer, fresh local ingredients and seafood, Kitsap is one of Washington’s top foodie destinations.
From wood-fired pizza to fresh seafood, get ready to eat like a local!
KINGSTON
foodie favorite
Sourdough Willy’s Pizzeria
11265 NE State Hwy 104 | Website
Legendary 120+ year old Sourdough is the not-so-secret ingrediant in the success of the award winning Sourdough Willy’s Pizzeria pizza. 5 distinct pizza styles are, masterfully prepared and served on the waterfront, just steps from the Kingston/Edmonds ferry. But Willy doesn’t stop with pizza - the pasta, salads apps and sandwiches are also just as delicious.
BAINBRIDGE
ISLAND
foodie favorite
Cafe Hitchcock
129 Winslow Way E | Website
Sleek, sexy and delicious - Cafe Hitchcock is one part cafe, one part bar and one part incredible restaurant. Known for fresh ingredients expertly aligned and a welcoming ambiance, Hitchcock shines as a Winslow Way local favorite.
GOOD FOOD FAST
Kitsap food trucks and mobile munchies
Amazing food doesn’t have to take forever!
Kitsap has its fair share of quick bites and mobile eats.
Here are a few of our faves.
Sauced Food Truck
Sauced brings a modern spin on classic Filipino Flavors. They can often be found at Central Kitsap + North Kitsap events.
Harbor Haute Dogs
Creative and crave-worthy hot dogs with a boggling and delicious array of toppings and flavors, try the Rangoon…it’s our fave!
San Pedros Santa Maria BBQ
Tri tip & linguicia to die for! This mobile BBQ is a Port Orchard farmer’s market staple - bonus points for the pineapple upside down cake!
The Smokin Robinsons
Southern style BBQ favorites done just right is always a good idea. Catch them at festivals all over Kitsap.
The Saucy Sailor
This walk up window in downtown Kingston slings amazing and filling comfort food fast.
Iggy’s Alive and Cultured
This new Kingston food truck features fresh, healthy food and lots of tasty kombucha flavors and fermented treats.
POULSBO
foodie favorite
The Loft at Latitude Forty Seven Seven
18779 Front St NE | Website
The Loft at Latitude Forty Seven Seven is what you get when you mix inspired scratch made food with waterfront views and a modern ambiance. Situated above the Brass Kraken, hovering right over the waters of Liberty Bay, The Loft is well known for their delicious food and great service. From steamer clams to salmon burgers, The Loft has seafood down to a science but they also offer plenty of terrestrial options like their Thai chicken salad & ribeye steak with asiago mashed potatoes. A playful and unique cocktail list (Elderflower Cosmopolitan anyone?) and sturdy beer line up featuring Kitsap craft brew favorites round out this beloved Poulsbo eatery.
PORT
GAMBLE
foodie favorite
Butcher & Baker Provisions
4719 NE State Hwy 104 | Website
Butcher & Baker is proof that God exists and loves us, very very much. Sound like hyperbole? Try the fried chicken sandwich and all will be revealed. The whole menu is one of the very best, most unique and well rounded offerings on the entire Peninsula, and probably the Pacific Northwest. Butcher & Baker also has an espresso bar, offers incredible house-made baked goods and has a full deli full of delicious meats and cheeses. Open Thursday -Sunday, make sure you come to Port Gamble hungry!
CATCH OF THE DAY
The world is your oyster.
When you’re surrounded by this much water there is bound to be amazing fish, clams, crab, and all manner of fresh seafood on the menu. In Kitsap Peninsula restaurants there is no shortage of fresh salmon, oysters, chowder, muscles, shrimp and anything else you crave that comes from the sea! Here are just a few of our favorite spots to get your tummy growling.
Proper Fish - Bainbridge Island
JJ’s Fish House - Poulsbo
Kettlefish - Silverdale
Seabird - Bainbridsge Island
Anthony’s - Bremerton
Ono Poke Too - Kingston
Sully’s Bistro - Suquamish
The Dock Bar & Eatery - Port Orchard
BREMERTON
foodie favorite
Hound + Bottle
2109 E 11th St | Website
An amazing bar and restaurant in the super cute and oh so walkable Bremerton neighborhood of Manette, Hound + Bottle has a dedicated local following, and for good reason. Fresh local ingredients inform their menu that focusses on classics and inspired seasonal dishes. Hound +Bottle has a decidedly cool vibe, is dog friendly, and slings some crazy good cocktails.
PORT
ORCHARD
foodie favorite
Damn Fine Pizza
1307 Bay St | Website
Damn Fine Pizza - the name says it all! Relatively new on the Port Orchard waterfront scene, this pizzeria has it all: amazing food, a hearty tap list, huge views of Sinclair Inlet (the sunsets at DFP are stunning!), a funky and fun vibe and, of course, a damn fine pinball room! Family friendly and perfect for a date night or get together, DFP has quickly become a Port Orchard favorite. Stop by on your next visit to South Kitsap to grab a slice and see what the fuss all is about.
BEST OF THE BEST
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TACOS
Diablo's Birrieria & Taqueria - Poulsbo
El Balcon - Bremerton
Casa Rojas - Bainbridge Island -
BREAKFAST
Oak Table - Silverdale
Streamliner Diner - Bainbridge Island
Borrowed Kitchen Bakery - Kingston -
PIZZA
Damn Fine Pizza - Port Orchard
Sourdough Willy’s - Kingston
Bruciato - Bainbridge Island -
HAPPY HOUR
Boat Shed - Bremerton
Sully’s Bistro & Bar - Suquamish
The Plate & Pint - Bainbridge Island -
COMFORT FOOD
The Grub Hut - Kingston
Spiros Pizza & Pasta - Silverdale + Port Orchard
Butcher & Baker Provisions - Port Gamble -
ELEVATED CUISINE
Seabird - Bainbridge Island
Molly Ward Garden - Kingston
Crabtree Kitchen + Bar - Poulsbo -
ASIAN
Ba Sa - Bainbridge Island
Khao Soi - Manette + Port Orchard
Pho T&N - Poulsbo -
SANDWICHES
Butcher & Baker Provisions - Port Gamble
Sauce Nouvelle - Bainbridge Island
Monica's Waterfront Bakery & Cafe - Silverdale -
SWEETS & TREATS
Sweet Dahlia Baking - Bainbridge Island
Carter & Company - Port Orchard
Sluys Poulsbo Bakery - Poulsbo
PORT
GAMBLE
A charming historic town with heart
Community Focus
Just a stone’s throw from the Hood Canal bridge, Port Gamble is a historic town that runs on pure charm. Historic homes, white picket fence lined streets, unique shops, a live theater, massive General Store all cluster together surrounded by lawns overlooking Gamble Bay.
Port Gamble is tiny and is the perfectly walkable stop on your North Kitsap adventure. A visit to the General Store is a must. It’s filled with PNW and WA goods and treats with a yummy cafe, ice cream and sandwich shop. The upper floor is one of the largest seashell and marine life collections in the world - a free museum and always popular with young kids. The Walker-Ames house is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture and is infamously one of the most haunted houses in Washington, with Ghost Tours regularly scheduled.
Port Gamble is next to the massive Port Gamble Heritage Forest, a great place to hike and kayaks can be purchased or rented at Olympic Outdoor Center if you care to explore Gamble Bay or Hood Canal. Port Gamble’s historic church is one of Kitsap’s most sought after wedding destinations and the Port Gamble Theater has been offering live theatrical productions since 1906.
One Peninsula ~ Dozens of Breweries
KITSAP
CRAFT BREW
Downpour Brewing • Hood Canal Brewery • Echoes Brewing Company • Rainy Daze Brewing • Western Red Brewing • Valholl Brewing • Slippery Pig Brewery • Bainbridge Brewing • Moment Brewing • Crane’s Castle Brewing • Chaos Bay Brewing Co. • Ridgeline Brewing • Silver City Brewery • Day Dogs Brewing • Deep Draft Brewing • Yoked Farmhouse & Brewery
Kitsap didn’t invent craft beer…but we probably perfected it. Up and down the Peninsula over 20 craft breweries are churning out incredible local beer.
VALHÖLL BREWING
Don Spencer, Brewmaster/ Co-Owner
A brewmaster at the highly regarded Silver City for nearly a quarter century, Spencer led its team to the honor of being named Mid-Sized Brewery/Brewer of the Year at the 33rd Great American Beer Festival in 2019. A year later, he exited Silver City and assumed co-ownership of Viking-themed Valhöll Brewing in Poulsbo. “This is my dream project,” Spencer said. “I’d been coming to Valhöll for years for a pint. I love this place. I just love a room full of people drinking beer.”
“This is very exciting,” he added, motioning to the four- pack of Valhöll tallboy cans sitting on the bar. The cans have been flying off the shelves at local markets since April. Equally exciting to Spencer is creating community. “I’m learning to do a new thing here,” he notes. “Being the face, the ambassador, the person that can be out front, getting people excited about beer.”
BAINBRIDGE BREWING
Russell Everett,
Brewmaster/Co-Owner
As we stood next to the brewery’s towers of gleaming steel, he told me how he’d been a home brewer for years. With an interest in creating something unique for his hometown, he and his father Chuck began dreaming about a brewery and went bar-hopping together across Seattle to study their favorite watering holes. By 2012, Bainbridge Island Brewing Company opened their doors. The father-son team now operates the Brewery & Taproom at Coppertop Park and Bainbridge Brewing Alehouse in Winslow, where ferry passengers can find a pint of fresh local beer just footsteps away.
Everett had one goal for the business—create a tangible good for the community he grew up in. As he motioned to the Taproom, you could see from the easy banter of guests that he achieved his goal. “We need a place to be together, where it’s socially acceptable to sit with and talk to strangers,” Everett said. “Public houses have always been that place, and that’s what I wanted to create.’
HOOD CANAL BREWERY
Caitlyn Hatchel, Owner
“I started here when I was 21,” the lifelong local said. “I tended bar and learned bit by bit.” Hood Canal Brewery founder Don Wyatt, her boss at the time, saw in Hatchel someone who loved people, made them feel welcome, and created an effortless feeling of family around her. After several years of bartending, it was clear that she was part of what made the brewery a special place to gather and sip suds, and Wyatt made her his successor.
“People come here to sit in the bar or outside, have great conversations, and meet new people,” Hatchel said. “It’s a breath of fresh air.”
She credits the continued success of the brewery to the people she surrounds herself with, especially her family. Her dad works on carpentry projects, her mom bartends, and her sister bottles beer.
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Yoked Farmhouse & Brewery
A South Kitsap favorite family run and family-friendly farmhouse brewery.
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Rainy Daze
This Poulsbo brewery has garnered a cult-like following for its unique brews an good vibes.
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Silver City Brewery
Kitsap’s biggest and most well-known brewery has been the craft beer culture on the Peninsula since the ‘90s.
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Deep Draft
Nestled behind the Wig Wam Pub (amazing BBQ) in Gorst, Deep Draft Brewing is a local favorite.
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Slippery Pig
Great beer, darn tasty food, amaing atmophere and a pinball room. What more do you need?
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Dog Days Brewing
Next to the Roxy Theater in downtown Bremerton, hit up their trivia night then catch a film!
One Island ~ Six Wineries
WINERIES
With a half dozen wineries,
Bainbridge Island
is a wine lovers happy place!
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Bainbridge Vineyard - Wine Garden & Tasting Room open Thurs - Sun 1-6pm.
Eagle Harbor Winery - Live Music on Sunday through Sept. Open Thurs - Mon 12-5pm.
Fletcher Bay Winery (2 locations, Coppertop Park & Winslow Way) - Live music Sunday through Sept. Open daily.
Rolling Bay Winery - Beautiful outdoor space. Tasting Rooms hours open Fri-Sun.
Perennial Vintners - Guided tastings, closed Tues & Thurs in Summer.
Eleven Winery - Two locations, open daily. Tasting room on Winslow Way.
PORT ORCHARD
Olalla Winery - Home to a heavenly wine garden in rural South Kitsap, open Thurs-Sun.
FLETCHER BAY WINERY
Jim Whilford, Owner
What started as a passion project in Jim Wilford’s garage on Fletcher Bay is now a full-scale winery with a popular tasting room in downtown Bainbridge. Fletcher Bay features only the best Washington grapes from Walla Walla and the Yakima Valley. This beloved boutique winery has two locations, the flagship location at Coppertop Park and a Winslow Way tasting room that is a treasure with a beautiful rooftop tasting space overlooking Eagle Harbor boasting live music on weekends. Jim’s love for winemaking and the Bainbridge Island community has resulted in an incredible winery with a dedicated local following.
Bainbridge
Island
A creative, close-knit island community
Community Focus
Tucked in the shimmering waters of Puget Sound, Bainbridge Island is a gem in the Pacific Northwest where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly. It’s the second largest city in Kitsap, accessible via the Agate Pass Bridge, coming from the Kitsap mainland, or the 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle. Here you’ll find fine dining, a half dozen wineries, unique parks and gardens, including the serenity of Bloedel Reserve, and plenty of options for shoreline adventure.
Numerous bays and inlets, along with spits, bluffs, dunes and lagoons give way to one unique waterfront experience after another. When you’re looking to escape from the hectic stress of everyday life, Bainbridge is an ideal romantic getaway, or bring your family for a weekend of fun. Step into a world where lush, emerald forests meet tranquil, pebble-strewn beaches and relish sunsets with painted hues of rose and gold. Indulge in the bustling waterfront shopping and dining area on Winslow Way, known for its walkability, and enjoy free admission to Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. The charm of Bainbridge offers a perfect balance between sophisticated and sublime. Our island is the quintessential place to play and explore.
BI Walkabout Guide - pick one up on the ferry or at the Visitor Center Kiosk near the ferry and/or in front of the Greater Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce.
Discover All that Kitsap Has to Offer
EXPERIENCES
Experiences
you will not forget
If Kitsap was a book it would be a Choose Your Own Adventure…
Festivals, ferry rides, farmers markets…oh my! Although the Kitsap Peninsula is made up of a collection of quaint small towns, we’re BIG on adventurous experiences!
Those looking to connect to our welcoming PNW communities will find a robust year-round festival, event, and farmers market schedule. Kitsap is probably best explored by car with plenty of room for pulling over and exploring what catches your eye as you navigate forested backroads and beachfront boulevards.
FARMERS MARKETS
From spring to fall, there is a weekly Farmers Market for every community on the Kitsap Peninsula. There is no better way to get in touch with the local makers, growers, crafters and small brands than visiting one of our many seasonal markets.
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POULSBO
Saturdays @ 10am-2pm
This big market is known for its great produce and live music! It has the longest season, running April to December.
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SILVERDALE
Tues & Sun @ 10am-3pm
The Silverdale market has a summer location in the Silverdale Antique Store Parking lot to serve the central Kitsap community twice a week.
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PORT ORCHARD
Saturday @ 9am~2pm
This wonderful waterfront market meets on Bay Street in downtown Port Orchard beside the marina and foot ferry pier.
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BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Saturday @ 10am-2pm
The BI market has a unique array of vendors and crafters, just a short walk from the Bainbridge ferry terminal at Town Square @ City Hall.
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BREMERTON
Thursday @ 4~7 pm
Located at Evergreen Park this Thursday evening market has great vendors, live music, free yoga classes, and a free kid's program!
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KINGSTON
Sunday @ 10am-3pm
The Kingston Farmers Market is a lively, friendly market located on a beautiful, grassy lawn at Mike Wallace Park at the Port of Kingston Marina.
ANNUAL FESTIVALS & EVENTS
We love an excuse to party and gather as a community. So it only makes sense that Kitsap’s calendar is filled year round with festivals, events, parties and parades. In spring and summer the festival season kicks into high gear, so if you’re visiting during these times find a fest and dive right in!
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VIKING FEST
Poulsbo, 3rd Weekend in May
Vikings, parade, strongman competition, music, crafts, shield wall demonstrations and more make this popular festival a local favorite.
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MOSQUITO FLEET FEST
Port Orchard, Memorial Day Weekend
Celebrate Kitsap’s maritime history and culture on the Port Orchard shoreline. Step aboard Mosquito Fleet era vessels and shop local vendors.
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PIRATE FESTIVAL
Kingston, 3rd Saturday in June
Pirates take over the Kingston waterfront in this fun, family favorite. Nautical vendors show off their arts and crafts while musicians entertain on the main stage.
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BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL
Bremerton, 1st Weekend in September
Every years since the 1990’s this free festival takes over Bremerton's picturesque waterfront over Labor Day weekend with delicious food and entertainment.
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CHIEF SEATTLE DAYS
Suquamish, 3rd weekend in August
Established in 1911 to honor Chief Seattle, the famous leader of the Suquamish people. Activities include salmon bake, canoe races, drumming + dancing, and the “Memorial Service to Chief Seattle” at his gravesite.
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WHALING DAYS
Silverdale, Last weekend of July
Whaling Days is a family-oriented, community festival held in “Old Town” Silverdale. Since 1974, folks have enjoyed the events + entertainment Whaling Days has to offer.
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CHILLY HILLY
Bainbridge Island, Last Sunday in February
33-mile loop around the island takes you along the shore to soak in Seattle’s skyline, through forested rural roads, and (true to name) up and down some memorable hills.
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BAINBRIDGE STREET DANCE
Bainbridge Island, July 3rd
Come out and boogie in the streets of Winslow Way in this wildly popular and super fun community party on the eve of the 4th of July!
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GHOST CONFERENCE
Port Gamble, 2nd Weekend in November
One of the most historic and picturesque places in Kitsap is also the most haunted! Tour famous haunting sites, take part in paranormal investigations and have a spooky good time!
OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES
Live music echoes off the evergreen trees during the summer months with countless concerts, performances, and musicians bringing their talent to Kitsap. In nearly every community there are summer concert series and many local bars, restaurants and cafes showcase solo artists and regional bands.
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CONCERTS ON THE BAY
Port Orchard Waterfront
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
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MUSIC IN MANETTE
Whitey Domstad Park
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
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SUMMER NIGHTS AT THE BAY
Poulsbo Waterfront Pavillion
Tuesdays 6-8pm
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PERFORMANCES ON THE PASSAGE
Suquamish Clearwater Casino
Thursdays 7-9pm
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SOUNDS OF SUMMER
Bainbridge Island Battle Point Park
Wednesdays 6-8pm
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CONCERTS ON THE COVE
Kingston Waterfront Park
Saturdays 3-5pm
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SUMMER SOUNDS
Kinston Point Casino
Fri + Sat 6-9pm
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PLEASANT BEACH VILLAGE
Lynwood Center, Bainbridge Island
Thurs & Fri during Summer 7-9pm
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OLALLA VINEYARD & WINERY
Olalla, South Kitsap
Regular live music, check website for details
POULSBO
Kitsap’s ‘little Norway’ is brimming with charm
Community Focus
Poulsbo feels like a world unto itself. Its picturesque downtown core, with a charming old-world Norwegian vibe and rosemaled storefronts, pays homage to its roots. This waterfront village on the shores of Liberty Bay, nestled on a protected arm of Puget Sound, offers a calmer and more placid environment, making it a haven for boaters, especially during the beautiful summer months. Poulsbo is known for its vibrant calendar of local events, from iconic Viking Fest to Brewfest and Februay’s Frosty Fest. There’s always something fun happening in Poulsbo! The town also boasts a variety of breweries, including local favorites like Rainy Daze, Valhöll, and Slippery Pig Brewery.
ART + CULTURE
If it’s galleries and museums that tickle your fancy, then look no further. Throughout the Peninsula there are opportunities to enjoy world class art, experience local and tribal culture and dive into our region’s history.
MUSEUMS
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BAINBRIDGE ISLAND MUSEUM OF ART
BIMA showcases artists from Puget Sound.
Winslow Way, Bainbridge Island
Open 10am-5pm daily
Free Admission -
SUQUAMISH MUSEUM + CHIEF SEALTH'S MEMORAL
Discover the rich history and culture of the Suquamish people.
South Street, Suquamish
Open 9am-4p mdaily
$6-18/person -
CARLISLE II
Sail on foot from Bremerton to Port Orchard in. a floating museum, the last Mosquito Fleet vessel still transporting passengers.
Port Orchard Marina/Bremerton Ferry Dock
5am-9pm daily
$2/person -
KITSAP HISTORY MUSEUM
‘Connecting our communities with each story.’
4th Street, Bremerton
Open 12-4pm, Thu-Sat
Free Admission -
ELANDAN GARDENS + BONSAI MUSEUM
A world class bonsai collection on the shores of Sinclair Inlet.
State Hwy 16, Bremerton
Open 10am-4pm, Thu-Sun -
PUGET SOUND NAVY MUSEUM
PSNM collects, preserves, and interprets the naval heritage of the PNW for the benefit of the U.S. Navy and general public.
1st Street, Bremerton
Open 10am-4pm, Wed-Mon
Free Admission -
USS TURNER JOY DD-951
US Naval Destroyer Museum
Washington Beach Ave, Bremerton
Mar-Oct: 10am-4pm, daily
Nov-Feb: 12-4p,m Wed-Sun
$15-22/person -
POINT NO POINT LIGHTHOUSE
The oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound stands vigilant at the north entrance to Puget Sound.
Point No Point Rd, Hansville
Lighthouse open 12-4pm, Sat+Sun
April-Sept -
JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION MEMORIAL
Learn the history of the Japanese Americans of Bainbridge Island, honoring the 276 survivors.
Eagle Harbor Drive, Bainbridge Island
Open dawn-dusk, daily
Free Admission
ART WALKS & NIGHT MARKETS
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BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Downtown - Winslow Way
Year Round, 1st Friday, 5-8pDowntown - Lawn at City Hall
June - October
1st Friday 5-8p -
BREMERTON
Manette, Callow Ave + Downtown
Year Round, 1st Friday 5-8pBremerton Boardwalk
May, June, Jul, Oct
1st Fridays 5-8p -
PORT ORCHARD
Port Orchard waterfront marina
June - Sept 6-10p -
POULSBO
Downtown - Front Street
Year Round, 2nd Saturdays, 5-8p -
KINGSTON
Kingston Waterfront May - October, First Saturdays, 5-8p
WATERFRONT SHOPPING
Nearly every Kitsap downtown shopping district is on the beautiful Salish Sea waterfront. Each community enjoys its own piece of the 250+ miles of shoreline and provides an opportunity to explore local brands and businesses. Here’s a peek at our waterfront shopping options.
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BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Winslow Way
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POULSBO
Front Street
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BREMERTON
Pacific Ave + 4th Street
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KINGSTON
Hwy 104
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PORT ORCHARD
Bay Street
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SILVERDALE
Old Town Silverdale
JOSEPHINE’S MERCANTILE
701 Bay Street, Port Orchard
Thousands of unique vintage, retro, up-cycled and reclaimed items spanning decades are beautifully curated in this waterfront marketplace. Josephine’s a is a favorite among locals and visitors looking for something fun, funky, inspired and unique…stroll Jo’s booths, each a collection curated by a different vendor for home decor that speaks to your personality! Bonus points for Mercantile Coffee Co. - a cute little cafe in the back of the store offering espresso, treats, pastries and more!
MILLSTREAM BAINBRIDGE
122 Winslow Way, Bainbridge Island
Millstream Bainbridge offers a fun collection of quality PNW / local themed art and gifts from apparel, decor, art, home goods, locally made products and so much more! The friendly staff and cool PNW vibe make this a favorite stop for those visiting the island looking for something to remember their travels by.
NORDISKA
18925 Front Street, Poulsbo
Nordiska is a cozy Front St. shop specializing in Scandinavian and Nordic-inspired housewares, kitchen goods and gifts.
You’ll be impressed by Nordiska’s wide variety of Scandinavian items including a stock of favorite Scandinavian candies that are extremely difficult to find in the states! Celebrate Scandinavian design and lifestyle with imported Swedish and Norwegian brands and bring home something truly unique from Kitsap’s ‘Little Norway’.
South Kitsap’s waterfront village
PORT
ORCHARD
Community Focus
Port Orchard is connected via the ferry system like no other Kitsap community is. Historic foot ferries carry passengers across Sinclair inlet to Bremerton, relics from the 100+ year old Mosquito Fleet that buzzed along the waters in bygone days. Across Port Orchard in the eastern-facing shores, the community of Southworth is home to the Washington State Ferry System’s Southworth- Fauntleroy-Vashon route, a 30 minute crossing to West Seattle with a stop on Vashon Island. Port Orchard, having ferries that link to 3 cities, is the most ferry-connected community in a place known for its maritime history.
Port Orchard boasts some of the region’s best food to be found! As far as pure comfort food goes, Spiro’s is a top hit - their Club Sub sandwich is the perfect combo of toasty and gooey and melty and the chocolate peanut butter pie is cry-on-your-plate good. Locals know that burgers and views at Whiskey Gulch is always a great experience. The Dock Bar and Eatery boasts the Governor’s favorite fish & chips.
Whether we’re riding our bikes along the gentle surf of Beach Drive along or exploring the tide pools in Manchester State Park - some of our favorite adventures involve the many, many miles of waterfront that Port Orchard offers.
Celebrate the holidays on the Peninsula
Christmas in Kitsap
KITSAP LOVES CHRISTMAS
Each community on the Kitsap Peninsula holds many Christmas celebrations, festivals and events that bring out the best in our locals and visitors. From Nordic Santas to Holiday Markets, here is a taste of what Port Gamble, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Poulsbo, Kingston & Port Orchard have to offer.
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Port Gamble Country Christmas
December 14 & 15
Experience horse-drawn hayrides through a town sparkling with over 100,000 holiday lights, craft-making for the kids at Santa’s workshop, followed by Western Washington’s only holiday fireworks display.
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Kitsap Christmas Tree Farms
Across the Peninsula are many country Christmas tree farms and opportunities to harvest a tree on local, family-owned farms. Skip the grocerytore parking lot and head out into the PNW forests and farmlands to find your perfect evergreen tree for the holiday season.
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Kingston Marina Holiday Lights
Kingston’s Christmas in the Cove is one of the best and brightest holiday light displays in the PNW. the Kingston Marina waterfront is transformed into a wonderland of 100’s of super colorful LED Christmas lights…just feet from the ferry!
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Bay Street Community Christmas
The Polaris Theater hosts a traditional Christmas community gathering with carols, cocoa, candle light and community goodwill! Come shop for local gifts on Bay Street and join the community celebration!
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Enjoy Christmas Treats
From Kingston’s Sweet Life Cakery (pictured here) to Sluys bakery in Poulsbo, to Carter & Co. in Port Orchard, to Sweet Dahlia Bakery on Bainbridge Island - there are so many places to get sweet holiday treats in Kitsap!
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Local Christmas Shopping
There are hundreds of local shops and small businesses on the Kitsap Peninsula that are perfect for holiday shopping for unique and fun gifts that your loved ones will appreciate.
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Christmas in Poulsbo
December in Poulsbo is always packed with fun community events! From Julefest including the Nordic Market, Norwegian food and the Viking Bonfire, to a traditional Nordic Santa who sits in residence on Front Street every weekend.
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Bainbridge Island Christmas Events
From Winslow Way to Pleasant Beach Village to Bloedel Reserve - there are so many ways to celebrate on BI during the holiday season. Look for elves in downtown Bainbridge, attend a Manor House Concert or a Gingerbread House Party at Pleasant Beach Village!
There is an adventure around every corner
EXPLORE
KITSAP WAS MADE FOR ADVENTURE
Nature lovers will find more state and county parks than they could ever explore, kayakers and boaters will bask in the miles of shoreline and dozens of water trail access points.
Let’s dive into everything there is to explore here on the Peninsula!
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CITY PARKS
Every city on the Peninsula has its own collection of unique city parks, playgrounds & public spaces to explore.
Pictured here: Port Orchard Waterfront Park
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STATE PARKS
The Peninsula boasts 6 State Parks from Gig Harbor to North Kitsap - offering camping, shoreline access and endless adventure!
Pictured here: Manchester State Park
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HIKING
Kitsap is crisscrossed with hiking trails - from the evergreen forest of Guillemot Cove to the vistas of Green Mountain to the enchanting Port Gamble Heritage Park…there are hundreds of miles of trails waiting for you.
Pictured here: Clear Creek Trail
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BIKING
From the single track of Banner Forest and Port Gamble Heritage Forest to the pump track of Poulsbo to the country roads that wind across Bainbridge Island…there are many places to ride on the Peninsula.
Pictured here: Banner Forest
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BEACHES
With hundreds of miles of shoreline come with innumerable beaches. Regardless of what community you are exploring, there is always a public beach or water access nearby.
Pictured here: Fay Bainbridge Park
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ICONIC ADVENTURES
There are some adventures that are quintessential Kitsap - like visiting the Point No Point lighthouse, hiking Guillemot Cove or sailing aboard the Lady Washington…
Pictured here: Lady Washington Tall Ship
GUILLEMOT COVE
NATURE RESERVE
Seabeck
An afternoon exploring Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve is one of our favorite escapes in Kitsap County. In the heart of Seabeck your invited to explore evergreen forests, board walked wetlands, and a picturesque cove all in a matter of minutes.
The sloping walk through the forest to the shores of the Hood Canal feels like a true adventure, and the crowds are light and friendly. The iconic and mysterious Stumphouse is a giant tree stump adorned with a miniature shingled roof. The kids will want to crawl inside, and you’ll want to snap pics!
Stumphouse Trail is a 1/4 mile walk off the main trail to a giant stump of a behemoth tree that was logged in the 1890s - when much of the region’s old growth trees were cut down. You can see the notch cut in the side of the stump where loggers placed the plank that they stood on while they sawed at the massive trunk.
Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park
Port Gamble
At 3,493 acres with 60+ miles of trails, the Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park is the largest park in Kitsap. It’s a haven for hikers and bikers - known for its excellent mountain bike trails and its large, serene stands of evergreen forest. The new mountain bike terrain park is one of the very best on the West Coast and is a regional draw for riders of all skill levels. The trails are well marked and user-friendly signs dot the massive park. Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park is one of Kitsap’s very best places to get completely immersed in nature whether you’re in for a quick stroll, a walk with the dog or a full blow adventure with friends.
BLAKELY HARBOR PARK
Bainbridge Island
This peaceful little park tucked away on Bainbridge Island has a mix of everything. It's a blend of quiet woods, waterfront and water access, and a short trail. A cute little footbridge over the untroubled waters is a tranquil addition. The trail connects to the colorful graffiti-covered ruin of the old mill and has an outhouse at the north side. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 15 minutes to walk the trail. This is a popular trail for walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. This is a great little adventure spot for kids and leashed dogs.
CLEAR CREEK TRAIL
Silverdale
Silverdale’s not so secret trail system flies under the radar as some of the best walking trails on the Peninsula. The trail is 8 miles from the Silverdale Waterfront Park on Dyes Inlet north to Trigger Avenue. It follows Clear Creek as it meanders through riparian areas, wetlands, and remnant forests. Bird watchers flock to the trail for its amazing opportunities for birding in the serene environment. Zigzagging boardwalks meet packed dirt and paved trails for a level, easy walking experience that is good for kids and most people.
SUQUAMISH
People of the Clear Salt Water
Community Focus
‘The Suquamish Tribe and the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe are the original inhabitants of this land.’
Suquamish has been the primary home of the Suquamish people since time immemorial. It is the ancient place on Agate Passage, the site of Old-Man-House Village, the winter home of Chief Seattle and the heart of the Suquamish people.
The Suquamish People continue to live in the place of their ancestors, and practice their traditional life ways on the Port Madison Indian Reservation. Suquamish Tribal history and tradition are celebrated throughout the year and are a visible part of the Suquamish experience. Along the waterfront and in Suquamish Village you will find restaurants, local businesses and a number of cultural sites.
SUQUAMISH MUSEUM
Open daily from 9am-4pm the Suquamish Museum is a beautiful facility filled with cultural art, artifacts, lore and history. Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Suquamish people at the museum.
CHIEF SEATTLE DAYS
Chief Seattle Days is an annual event that the Suquamish Tribe sponsors to celebrate and honor Chief Seattle for all of his historical accomplishments. This celebration is open to the public and people are invited to experience the Suquamish Tribe’s hospitality, culture, and fun. August 16-18 2024.
CLEARWATER CASINO RESORT
Clearwater Casino Resort offers everything you need for a getaway, conference, wedding, golf tournament and more. Clearwater is the only waterfront casino resort in the Seattle area where you’ll find a wide array of luxurious amenities, featuring a beautiful 183 room Hotel-Resort, relaxing spa, high tech meeting spaces, five restaurants, four bars, entertainment, 18 hole golf course and the excitement of casino nightlife.
KITSAP PENINSULA
NATIONAL WATER TRAILS
With the hundreds miles of shoreline and countless opportunities to get in or on the water, the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails system is simultaneously an immense resource and a point of pride for the PNW. The cold, clear, deep waters of the Salish Sea and the tidelands, estuaries and inlets that make up water trails offer year-round access to enjoy water-related activities. From kayaking around bays and coves to sailing around the entire Great Peninsula, each water trail adventure offers a unique experience. On May 2014, the KPNWT was designated by the US Department of Interior part of the National Water Trails System, the first in WA State and the only natural, saltwater trail in the United States.
The official Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails website is a wealth of resources for panning your next water trail adventure - below are just a few of our favorite water trail access points.
WATER TRAIL ACCESS POINTS
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SUQUAMISH TRIBAL DOCK
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OLALLA BOAT LAUNCH
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PORT ORCHARD WATERFRONT
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PORT GAMBLE VILLAGE
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HIDDEN COVE
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FAY BAINBRIDGE
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KINGSTON MARINA
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SILVERDALE WATERFRONT
sail kitsap
MARINAS & BOATING
With a marina around every corner, you’re never far from moorage on the Kitsap Peninsula.
Whether you’re boating in from King, Pierce or Jefferson Counties…or are coming from further afield, you’ll find accommodating ports and welcoming locals as you step ashore!
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The Kingston Marina and waterfront are picturesque and welcoming, if you arrive on a Sunday you'll be greeted with the Kingston Public Market!
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The BI city dock is directly south of the beautiful Waterfront Park. The dock is open year-round and guest moorage is on a first-come-first-served basis for vessels up to 70 feet.
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The Port of Keyport has a small marina with 14 private slips, 250 feet of guest moorage in five 50-foot slips, and a boat launch ramp.
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The Poulsbo Marina on Liberty Bay is one of the most popular places for boaters to visit in Puget Sound. Guests enjoy a clean marina with shops, galleries and eateries close by.
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The Port of Brownsville Marina has all the amenities of a large marina but with the charm, peacefulness and rustic setting of a small rural community.
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The Bremerton Marina provides boaters with first-rate moorage, state-of-the-art facilities and professional service.
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Located on the pristine waters of Puget Sound, the Port Orchard Marina delivers easy access to boating locations from Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle, and to the San Juan Islands and beyond!
BEACHES WE LOVE TO EXPLORE
KINGSTON
North Kitsap’s charming village
Community Focus
Follow the chainsaw carved trolls through the forests and farm valleys of north-east-central Kitsap to the tiny, charming community of Kingston. Passing the locally loved CB’s Nuts on HWY 104 always feels like the unofficial welcome to Kingston - the small stand is a proud purveyor of freshly roasted nuts and has a big, colorful mural out front that begs for a pic! Pull over and grab some snacks for the adventure ahead!
Kingston’s main drag seems to be dedicated to places to enjoy food and drink. As HWY 104 winds down to its conclusion at the Kingston-Edmonds WSF terminal it becomes a super cute waterfront lane that is lined with pubs, shops, restaurants, cafes, and breweries - perfect for a stroll.
At the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula, there’s no better time to visit Hansville than on a sunny day, when the water sparkles, cruise ships dot the horizon and shore birds dart along the water’s edge.
The community is tiny, but there are ample recreation activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and birding at Foulweather Bluff, Norwegian Point Park, Skunk Bay Lighthouse, and Point No Point Lighthouse and Park - the largest explorable shoreline in Hansville with 60+ acres of undeveloped saltwater access, including the historic lighthouse, and the nearby light keepers' housing which is now available as a vacation rental.
RIDE THE FERRY
Kitsap boasts the biggest & most beautiful ferry system in north America and for a visitor a ferry ride to Kingston, Port Orchard, Bainbridge Island or Bremerton can be a highlight of the journey. We encourage you to take to the water on a foot ferry, auto-ferry or fast ferry to experience the relaxation and the thrill of sailing across the Salish Sea…
There are 4 ferry terminals on the Kitsap Peninsula: Kingston, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton & Southworth (Port Orchard).
TWO types of ferry service help visitors and locals get to Kitsap from King County - the AUTO FERRY, a large vessel that you can drive your car onto and the FAST FERRY, operated by Kitsap Transit that provides passenger-only service to downtown Seattle in half the time of the auto ferry. Use the links below to check the current routes and schedules to plan your next ferry adventure to the Kitsap Peninsula.
AUTO FERRY
Washington State Ferry
Auto Ferries are open to walk on passengers and vehicles.
There are 4 ferry terminals that you may use to get to the Kitsap Peninsula: Kingston, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton & Southworth (Port Orchard).
The chugging of the ferry across the Puget Sound and the shifting views of the region and shorelines is a sight to behold and one of the most iconic views of the PNW.
Click the links below for ferry schedules and information.
Southworth / Fauntleroy
Bremerton / Seattle
Bainbridge Island / Seattle
Kingston / Edmonds
FAST FERRY
Kitsap Transit
The Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry provides quick (approx. 30 minutes) passenger-only service from Kingston, Bremerton & Southworth directly to downtown Seattle.
Fast Ferry Schedule
FOOT FERRY
Kitsap Transit
Travel back and forth from Bremerton to Port Orchard by hopping across the Sinclair Inlet in just 10 minutes on the Kitsap Transit foot ferry. This passenger only route is a vital connection between these two waterfront communities. If you’re lucky you’ll catch a ride on the 100+ year old Carlisle II ferry.
Foot Ferry Schedule
KITSAP WITH THE KIDS
Kitsap is an exceptionally kid-friendly travel destination with so many opportunities to jump into an adventure with the littles. Here are some of our favorite places to take the kids on the Kitsap Peninsula.
BREMERTON
Kitsap’s largest city and transportation hub
Community Focus
Bremerton is a beautiful city and a scenic one-hour auto ferry or a 35-minute crossing via passenger-only Fast Ferry crossing from Seattle, making it Kitsap County’s biggest city and also the most popular with commuters. Bremerton's downtown Harborside area boasts the Kitsap Conference Center, two hotels, fine dining, coffee shops, cafes, outdoor sculptures, and water features.
Bremerton’s downtown offers a lot to do. You can enjoy a stroll through the Arts District, Puget Sound Navy Museum, or climb aboard the historic USS Turner Joy accessed via the waterfront boardwalk. Harborside Fountain Park features large water features that dramatically spout water out of the top, a popular place for youngsters in the summer heat
The Port of Bremerton Marina has 220 permanent slips and 100 slips for visiting boaters.
FOR THE PETS
PET-FRIENDLY HIKES
Hansville Greenway Wildlife Corridor
Norwegian Point County Park
Buck Lake County Park
North Kitsap Heritage Park
Point No Point Light House Park
Battle Point Park
Green Mountain State Forest
Ueland Tree Farm & Dickerson Falls
Illahee State Park
Clear Creek Trails
Scenic Beach State Park
Banner Forest
OFF LEASH DOG PARKS
Bandix Dog Park
30-acre park on Bandix Road off the Burley-Olalla Road near Highway 16. Bandix Dog Park has a variety of wooded trails and open clearings for four legged play.
Howe Farm Off-Leash Dog Park
Located on Long Lake Road in Port Orchard, Howe Farm also features scenic trails on a historic farm property.
McCormack Village Park
Two fenced dog park areas make this Port Orchard park a furry favorite!.
Eagledale Park
A smallish 1 acre, off-leash area is located at the top of the park on Bainbridge Island.
Strawberry Hill Dog Park
Located on Bainbridge Island, this wooded 2.35 acre, forest glade inside Strawberry Hill Park has been set aside for off-leash fun.
Frank Raab Park
21-acre Poulsbo park featuring walking trails & off-leash dog area.
Bremerton Bark Park
The name says it all all! This puppy preferred park located within Pendergast Regional Park in Bremerton.
Silverdale Dog Park
Have some fun and get some exercise with your dog in Central Kitsap.
Stay
From historic hotels to unique rentals, there are countless options for accommodations that fit virtually any adventure, preference or taste. Every Kitsap community comes with its own collection of unique accommodations.
Use the buttons below to search for rentals and Airbnbs on the Peninsula.
Featured Stays
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The Chapel
PORT ORCHARD
Downtown/Waterfront -
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Guest Houses
PORT GAMBLE
Highway 104 -
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Pleasant Beach Village
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Lynwood Center -
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Clearwater Casino Resort
SUQUAMISH
Between Poulsbo + Bainbridge Island -
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Hotel Scandi
DOWNTOWN POULSBO
Front Street -
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Marina Square
BREMERTON
Downtown Waterfront Boardwalk -
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Best Western
SILVERDALE
Old Town Waterfront -
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Saltwood Bluff
KINGSTON
Waterfront Rental -
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The Point Casino & Resort
KINGSTON
S’Klallam Nation -
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Traditional Japanese Home
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
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Dahlia Bluff
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
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Snuggler's Cove
BREMERTON
Liberty Bay Inlet -
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Burke Bay A-Frame
BREMERTON
Burke Bay
More Great Stays
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BREMERTON
