Best Places to See When Driving from Bainbridge Island to Port Townsend
If you are looking for a scenic drive in Washington, then you should definitely check out the route from Bainbridge Island to Port Townsend. The 35-mile journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, the Puget Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca along the way. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top places to see when driving from Bainbridge Island to Port Townsend, so sit back, fasten your seat belt, and get ready for an amazing ride!
Rolling Hills and Pastoral Landscapes of Indianola
As you leave Bainbridge Island and head north on SR-305, you will come across the charming town of Indianola. This small community sits on the eastern shore of the Kitsap Peninsula and offers a serene environment of rolling hills and pastoral landscapes. As you drive along Indianola Road NE, you will pass by beautiful waterfront homes, sailboats anchored in the bay, and fishing boats plying the waters. If you have time, we recommend stopping by the Indianola Beach to relax on the sandy shore and enjoy the view of the Puget Sound.
Top Places to See on the Way to Port Townsend
Scenic Overlooks at Point No Point County Park As you head northwest from Indianola, you will reach the Point No Point County Park, which offers some of the best scenic overlooks on the route. This 60-acre park sits at the tip of the Kitsap Peninsula and overlooks the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. You can park your car and take a short hike to the lighthouse at the point, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the sea.
Beaches and Wildlife at Fort Worden State Park A few miles further down the road lies Fort Worden State Park, another must-visit destination on the route. This 433-acre park features long stretches of sandy beaches, tide pools, and incredible wildlife. If you love hiking, you can explore the park’s numerous trails, which wind through old-growth forests and offer stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. You can also visit the park’s historic military structures, including gun batteries, bunkers, and the Commanding Officer’s Quarters.
Quaint Charm of Port Townsend As you near the end of the route, you will arrive at Port Townsend, a charming Victorian-era town that is famous for its historic architecture, arts scene, and maritime heritage. Stroll down Water Street, and you will find numerous shops, galleries, and cafes, housed in beautifully restored buildings. You can take a walking tour of the town’s National Historic District, visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, or take a ferry to nearby Whidbey Island or Victoria, BC.
Breathtaking Views from the Keystone Ferry Terminal If you want to end your road trip on a high note, we recommend taking a short detour to the Keystone Ferry Terminal, located 3 miles south of Port Townsend. From here, you can catch a ferry to Coupeville on Whidbey Island, one of the most scenic ferry rides in the Pacific Northwest. You will enjoy unforgettable views of the Olympic Mountains, Admiralty Inlet, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, so make sure to have your camera ready!
Spectacular Sunsets at Fort Casey State Park Before you head back to Bainbridge Island, we recommend stopping by Fort Casey State Park, located on the eastern side of Whidbey Island. This park offers some of the best sunset views on the route, with the Olympic Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop. You can explore the park’s historic fortifications, walk along the beach, or climb up to the top of the Admiralty Head Lighthouse for a bird’s eye view of the area.
Conclusion
Driving from Bainbridge Island to Port Townsend is a journey that you won't soon forget. From the rolling hills and pastoral landscapes of Indianola to the breathtaking sunsets at Fort Casey State Park, every mile of the route offers something new and exciting. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!