Discover the Best places to eat, stay, experience, & explore with Love Kitsap -Your kitsap peninsula local travel guides.
Hundreds of miles of shoreline, countless opportunities for adventure - the Kitsap Peninsula is PNW smalltown authenticity at its best.
~ Kitsap’s only digital exploration guide ~
Coming to Seattle for the soccer championships?
Love Kitsap is your official Kitsap resource for the summer of 2026
Close to the action.
Miles from the crowds.
Kitsap County is the best place to stay for championship soccer in 2026!
Watch our Cascade PBS Special - ‘Northwest Explorer’.
Episodes of our second season, on location in Poulsbo and Port Gamble, are launching now.
Make sure to watch Season 1 from Bainbridge Island and Bremerton.
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Poulsbo Waterfront
Season 2, Episode 4
Front Street and Beyond -
SUQUAMISH
Season 2, Episode 3
Culture and Coastlines in North Kitsap -
PORT GAMBLE
Season 2, Episode 2
A History of Haunting -
HISTORIC POULSBO
Season 2, Episode 1
Home to Northwest Art and Artists -
BREMERTON
Season 1, Episode 6
Art, music and naval heritage -
BREMERTON
Season 1, Episode 5
Boardwalk and waterfront hotel -
BREMERTON
Season 1, Episode 4
Tasty Adventures -
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Season 1, Episode 3
Historic Coffeehouse and Museum of Art -
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Season 1, Episode 2
Farm-to-table dining at Heyday Farms -
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
Season 1, Episode 1
Magical hideaways on the island
Explore the Kitsap Peninsula by City
Bainbridge Island
Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island feels like a world away—where towering evergreens meet rocky beaches, and small-town charm blends seamlessly with sophisticated Pacific Northwest culture. This island gem is a haven for art lovers, foodies, and outdoor adventurers alike, with boutique shops, award-winning wineries, forested trails, and stunning waterfront views around every corner. Whether you're strolling Winslow’s walkable downtown or kayaking along the shoreline, Bainbridge Island invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and experience Kitsap County at its most enchanting.
Kingston
Welcome to the heart of Kitsap’s coastal magic. Tucked along the shores of the Puget Sound, Kingston, Washington is the perfect blend of small-town charm and Pacific Northwest adventure. Known as the “Little City by the Sea,” Kingston welcomes visitors with waterfront dining, walkable marinas, scenic hiking trails, and a vibrant local arts scene. Whether you’re arriving by ferry from Edmonds or road-tripping through Kitsap County, Kingston is your gateway to relaxed coastal living, farm-fresh flavors, and unforgettable views of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Kitsap experience.
Port Gamble
A perfectly preserved 19th-century mill town nestled along the Hood Canal. With its historic New England-style architecture, sweeping waterfront views, and tree-lined streets, Port Gamble feels like a step back in time with all the warmth of the Pacific Northwest. Explore quaint shops, sip locally roasted coffee, or wander through forested trails that lead to hidden beaches. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a historic adventure, or just a peaceful escape, Port Gamble offers one of Kitsap County’s most unforgettable and charming experiences.
Poulsbo
Fondly known as “Little Norway”— Poulsbo welcomes visitors with old-world charm and stunning Pacific Northwest beauty. Stroll along its vibrant waterfront boardwalk, where Scandinavian bakeries, boutique shops, and waterfront cafés create a storybook downtown that feels both cozy and full of discovery. With its rich Nordic heritage, spectacular mountain views, and easy access to kayaking, hiking, and weekend events, Poulsbo offers a magical Kitsap County experience that blends culture, nature, and small-town warmth in every season.
Silverdale
Silverdale is where modern convenience meets the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Perched between the shimmering waters of Dyes Inlet and the rolling foothills of the Olympics, Silverdale offers a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation—all with breathtaking views at every turn. Whether you're paddleboarding on the bay, exploring local trails, or unwinding at a waterfront bistro, Silverdale is the heart of Kitsap County's energy and charm, inviting travelers to experience the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Bremerton
Bremerton, Washington is a vibrant waterfront city where naval history, arts, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest come together. Just a scenic ferry ride from Seattle, Bremerton invites visitors to explore its walkable downtown, tour the historic USS Turner Joy, and discover galleries, cafés, and waterfront parks along the bustling marina. With mountain views, rich maritime culture, and easy access to Kitsap’s outdoor adventures, Bremerton is the perfect jumping-off point for travelers looking to experience the soul of Washington’s west side—authentic, welcoming, and full of discovery.
Port Orchard
Port Orchard, Washington is a charming seaside town that captures the heart of Kitsap County with its relaxed vibe, scenic marina, and friendly, small-town spirit. Just across the water from Bremerton, this historic community offers travelers a peaceful escape with waterfront dining, antique shopping, local art, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Whether you're strolling the boardwalk, exploring nearby trails, or hopping on a foot ferry to catch a sunset, Port Orchard is the kind of place where you can slow down, soak up the scenery, and experience the authentic beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Check out these Annual Kitsap events we love!
Local Guides for Visiting Kitsap
Stay in Kitsap
Book an overnight, weekend or week long adventure and make Kitsap your home base for adventure.
Featuring 27 acres, 4 bedrooms + loft with 6 beds + 2 fold-down sofas, 4 bathrooms. Enjoy the Steinway grand piano, outdoor cedar hot tub, and organic lavender farm.
Stunning beachfront on the shores of Port Orchard with unobstructed, waterfront vistas from inside the window-lined living area and furnished deck beneath by a canopy of trees.
The Baymont offers comfy, no-fuss stays with easy access to all Bremerton + Silverdale amenities, like ferries, local shopping, markets, and laid-back Kitsap vibes.
5 acres full of unique scenery, wildlife, and a small fruit tree orchard overlooking the Bremerton waterfront.
Centrally located, this peaceful waterfront home has all the amenities of the county nearby. Within 5-10 minutes grocery stores, shopping, gym, hospital, park/playground. Walk, bike, bus or drive. A great home base for a Kitsap & Olympic Peninsula getaway!
400 sq ft waterfront studio cottage and gazebo with amazing views of Mount Rainier! Bella Rosa Cottage is the perfect couples’ cozy getaway!
There is something for everyone at this award-winning hotel with well-appointed rooms, friendly service, and waterfront views.
With stunning views of Sinclair Inlet and the mighty Olympic Mountains, the historic Carriage House is the perfect place for a South Kitsap adventure.
The custom built studio cabin is a unique design, with wood floors, a vaulted wood ceiling and a large wrap around deck.
An 1895 historic chapel featuring gorgeous stained glass windows, open space design, 25 ft ceilings, loft bedrooms, huge work space, and fabulous art!
Overlooking Agate Pass with beautifully manicured grounds and a relaxing atmosphere, Clearwater Casino Resort isn’t *just a Kitsap destination…it’s one of the best casino resorts in WA.
The only hotel located on the Port Orchard waterfront pathway, you’ll be just a few steps away from countless adventures.
Stay right in the center of the action, in a cottage that feels like it’s in another world.
A beautiful, petite boutique hotel overlooking the Bainbridge Island waterfront, The Eagle Harbor Inn offers relaxing overnight accommodations in five one-of-a-kind hotel rooms and two custom townhomes.
Escape to Enchanted Forest Cottage in an evergreen forest of towering trees nestled between Poulsbo and Suquamish.
Enjoy space for the whole family with all the comforts of home at this charming vacation house. Cozy up by the fireplace on chilly days, enjoy your coffee in the front garden, or head into the garage game room to find some arcade games and table tennis.
A dreamy geodesic dome tucked among towering firs and cozy cabin stay options. Glamping at it’s finest!
Located a short walk to many downtown landmarks, such as the Bremerton waterfront boardwalk, Kitsap Conference Center, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton ferry terminals, Bremerton marina, and the USS Turner Joy Museum.
Overlooking Liberty Bay, Fairfield Inn & Suites is close to all the well-loved amenities of downtown Poulsbo—with delicious restaurants, local shops, and big-name businesses nearby.
This charming Tudor-style fairyland cottage with pristine bay views, 50-feet beachfront for clamming, crabbing, or kayaking.
Sweeping views of Puget Sound, Cascade Mountain range, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker and features sandy beaches.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Oyster Bay and framed by the majestic Olympic Mountains, the Flagship Inn offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views that will leave you in awe.
Nestled on the shores of Port Gamble Bay is an escape that is perfect for groups, families and anyone who wants to escape the noise and connect with PNW perfection in North Kitsap.
An ideal location for visitors to Naval Base Bangor, Naval Base Kitsap, and Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Keyport.
Located along the Bremerton waterfront boardwalk and moments from the entrance to the ferry terminals, Bremerton marina, USS Turner Joy Museum, Puget Sound Navy Museum, and Kitsap Conference Center, the Hampton offers a relaxed home base with unmistakable Puget Sound charm.
Heron Haus is a sleek, artfully appointed retreat with unparalleled views of Mount Rainier, Bainbridge & Blake Islands.
Originally built in the 1890’s, this boutique, 9-room hotel has been restored to its former Scandinavian glory. Book one room or the entire hotel!
This stunning space connects you directly with the serene beauty of the Hood Canal in the beautiful rural region of Kitsap known as Seabeck.
Tucked away in a timeless place on the Puget Sound. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Bainbridge Island, Agate Pass, and the Olympic Mountains from atop a 30 foot bluff.
26 in 2026
2026 is your year to adventure in Kitsap!
It's your year for beach walking, coffee sipping, and sailing.
It's your year for incredible food, farmers' markets, and festivals.
2025 is your year to explore the Kitsap Peninsula.
From local breweries to legendary lighthouses, Kitsap is bursting with unique experiences for solo travelers, families, corporate excursions, and friend groups. From Hansville to Bainbridge Island to Olalla and beyond, here are 25 unforgettable Kitsap experiences to get you started for 2025…
We could easily go on for days with all the fun things to do, see, eat, and explore on the Peninsula; narrowing it down to just 25 experiences is harder than you might think! We could easily rattle off 250 more, but hey, you’ve got to start somewhere!
Things to do on Bainbridge Island in any weather - rain or shine! Let’s explore indoor activities for day when you want to avoid the rain and outdoor adventures when you want to be outside!
Kitsap Annual Events Calendar - Mark your Calendar with this Kitsap County community events overview! Featuring events on Bainbridge Island, Kingston, Poulsbo, Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard, this guide will help you plan your Kitsap Peninsula travels, road trip, weekend, or staycation. Farmers markets, summer festivities, holiday fun, and so much more!
Keep reading for a list of fun, family-friendly activities & things to do in Port Orchard, Washington, rain or shine!
Sometimes it seems like Kitsap experiences all 4 seasons on the same day. Especially in Spring, the Kitsap Peninsula can go from sunshine to drizzle to a double rainbow and back to blue skies all in the same day.
All of the fall events, festivals, trick or treating and fun on the Kitsap Peninsula. Pumpkin patches, Halloween events and family fun in Bainbridge Island, Port Gamble, Poulsbo, Kingston, Bremerton, and Port Orchard.
Your guide to Kitsap County's breweries, taprooms & ciderys. From Bainbridge Island to Kingston to Bremerton to Silverdale & Port Orchard - here is your beer tour of the Peninsula!
Your guide to Kitsap events!
A comprehensive guide to the events you love most. Use these guides to plan your stay and make the most of Kitsap’s most anticipated events of the year.
explore
the Kitsap Peninsula
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Explore Guillemot Cove
This little-known nut much beloved park is one part pine forest, one part wetland and one part hidden beach (hence, cove).
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Explore Point No Point
A historic lighthouse and a perfect beach await you at the northern tip of Kitsap County.
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Explore Fay
A wind-swept stretch of beach strewn with a ba-zillion pieces of driftwood…
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TRULY DISTINCT state parks in Kitsap
We love exploring our state parks, no matter the season…
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Kingston, Rain or Shine
Especially in spring, Kitsap can go from sunshine to drizzle to a double rainbow and back to blue skies all in the same day.
Explore like a Local
These locals share their favorite (and possibly some fairly secret) spots to enjoy eats, drinks, and adventure on the Kitsap Peninsula. Secret Summer is an annual Summer Series that stays relevant year-round because there is never a bad time to visit and explore the Kitsap Peninsula!
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Baqi Kopelman, the director of a botanical garden. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - nature walks, local wines, and artisan markets. Explore ‘like a local’ with Baqi’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Molly Brahmer, a local artist. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - tapas, local art, and farmers’ markets. Explore ‘like a local’ with Molly’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Brittany Hess, a local small business owner and market manager. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - exploring the outdoors, thrift shops, and local markets. Explore ‘like a local’ with Brittany’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Danielle Rimbert, local artist and small business owner. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - live music, pizza spots, vintage shopping, and local cafes. Explore ‘like a local’ with Danielle’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Coreen Haydock, local business owner and community leader. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - beautiful gardens, locally made wines, and community events. Explore ‘like a local’ with Coreen’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Korum Bischoff, local musician and museum director. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - relaxing beaches, museums, and all kinds of foodie spots. Explore ‘like a local’ with Korum’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guides today are husband and wife, Jake & Jackie Zappey, local veterans, teachers, and authors. They’re sharing their love for Kitsap - military history, pho, hiking, and local bookstores. Explore ‘like a local’ with Jake & Jackie’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is ‘Paranormal Pete’ Orbea, local town manager and friend to local ghosts. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - live music, beer, and paranormal activity. Explore ‘like a local’ with Pete’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Melissa Kittrell, local ciderhouse owner. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - live music, bakeries, and all the best brew spots. Explore ‘like a local’ with Melissa’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Kylie Danskin, local artist and small business owner. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - wineries, ramen spots, and places to enjoy art. Explore ‘like a local’ with Kylie’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Anna Carson, local photographer and small business owner. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - chocolate, local parks, shopping, and the best cocktails around. Explore ‘like a local’ with Anna’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Lizzy Rolando, local bookstore owner. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - kayaking spots, bookstores, and live music. Explore ‘like a local’ with Lizzy’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Mike Barnet, local videographer and musician. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - hiking trails, breweries, and his favorite places to enjoy the arts. Explore ‘like a local’ with Mike’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Ryan Brewer, local pastor. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - coffee houses, swimming holes, and family-friendly hikes. Explore ‘like a local’ with Ryan’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Katie Diamond, local Youtuber, farmer and avid hiker. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - where to find the best cup of coffee, local farms, and hiking trails. Explore ‘like a local’ with Katie’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Kirsten Judkins, a local designer and art teacher. She’s sharing her love for Kitsap - moviehouses, bakeries and other treats, and art experiences. Explore ‘like a local’ with Kirsten’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
Your Local Kitsap guide today is Alex Marshall, local chef and small business owner. He’s sharing his love for Kitsap - breweries, tacos (and margaritas!), and local family-friendly events. Explore ‘like a local’ with Alex’s tips for visiting Kitsap.
EXPLORE by community
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Port Orchard
SOUTH KITSAP
Port Orchard is a quiet cluster of waterfront and inland neighborhoods with a keen sense of community.
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Poulsbo
NORTH KITSAP
Poulsbo is a charming city on Liberty Bay with a picturesque downtown core featuring a ‘Little Norway’ vibe.
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Bainbridge Island
NORTH KITSAP
The Island of Bainbridge, has become an increasingly affluent bedroom community of Seattle given its walkability from downtown Seattle.
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Kingston
NORTH KITSAP
Though Kingston is quiet and quaint, it plays an important role in anchoring the North Kitsap end. Several ferries service auto and walk-on passengers seeking passage to Edmonds.
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Port Gamble
NORTH KITSAP
A tiny but iconic PNW small town, Port Gamble is steeped in fascinating history.
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Bremerton
Bremerton is a beautiful city and two scenic ferry crossings from Seattle, making it Kitsap County’s biggest city.






















Waterfront bliss and views for days…perfectly nestled on the waterfront between Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island.