Things To Do
in Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island is a leafy, close-knit island in Puget Sound accessible by a scenic ferry from Seattle, known for its small-town downtown, arts scene, and abundant shoreline parks. The island balances a rural, maritime feel with upscale shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and a strong community of artists and conservationists. Outdoor recreation is a major draw: kilometers of trails, beaches with views of the Olympics and Mount Rainier, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Visitors come for relaxed island time, cultural attractions like the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and the Bloedel Reserve, and easy access to Seattle without the bustle of a big city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Winslow, where you can savor fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of the Historic District, admiring the well-preserved buildings and vibrant art installations. Don't forget to visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art to appreciate the region's artistic talents.
For lunch, enjoy farm-to-table dining at one of the island's renowned restaurants, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Post-lunch, explore the waterfront and visit the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal, where you can catch stunning views of the Seattle skyline across the water. Spend some time browsing the unique shops and boutiques that line the streets, picking up local crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun begins to set, head to the waterfront park for a serene walk along the beach, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves. For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a local eatery, paired with a glass of Pacific Northwest wine. Conclude your day by enjoying live music at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can enjoy views of the water while fueling up for a day of adventure. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the local outfitters and set out on the crystal-clear waters of Eagle Harbor. Explore the shoreline and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seals and various bird species.
After working up an appetite, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of Bainbridge Island. Spend your afternoon sunbathing or playing beach volleyball at Fay Bainbridge Park, or take a leisurely hike along the coastal trails that offer breathtaking views of the Puget Sound. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a sailing lesson on the open water.
As evening approaches, return to your favorite spot on the beach to watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues. Treat yourself to dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catch while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Wrap up your day by gathering around a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee or espresso | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 |
| ⛴️Round-trip adult ferry fare (approx.) | $10-20 |
| 🛒Groceries (per person, per week) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Seattle with scenic ferry access
- Strong food, arts, and farm-to-table culture
- Plenty of outdoor activities and preserved natural areas
- Quiet, safe, and family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and fewer late-night services
- Peak-season crowds and ferry waits in summer
- Higher costs for lodging and dining compared with non-island areas
- Dependence on ferry schedules for some travel plans
Places to Visit in Bainbridge Island
Visit one of these nice places.
Varied gardens, reflective ponds, and mossy woodland make Bloedel a top location for landscape and detail photography—best in morning light or on overcast days for moody greens.
Capture the classic ferry approach with Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains in the background, plus harbor activity and colorful boats at golden hour.
Popular for sunrise and sunset shots featuring Mount Rainier (on clear days), pebble beaches, driftwood, and expansive Puget Sound vistas.
Rocky shorelines, saltwater marshes, and old military bunkers offer dramatic coastal and historical imagery, ideal at low tide.
Food in Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally harvested shellfish are common on menus—try raw or grilled oysters at waterfront restaurants and seasonal Dungeness crab when available, often featured at seafood-centric eateries and market stalls.
Must-Try!
Restaurants frequently offer changing menus that showcase island farms and regional producers—expect dishes featuring local greens, root vegetables, artisan cheeses, and sustainably sourced fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held seasonally on weekends in Winslow, the market offers produce, baked goods, flowers, oysters, prepared foods, and a chance to meet local farmers and producers—great for picnic supplies.
Occasional food trucks and pop-up stands appear near community events and parks; offerings range from tacos and barbecue to local desserts—check event listings for schedules.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Leave-no-trace principles are valued—pack out trash, stay on trails, and respect wildlife and private property along shorelines.
Locals are generally informal and polite; a friendly greeting or small talk in shops and markets is normal, but personal questions may be reserved for familiar acquaintances.
Buying from local artisans, growers, and restaurants is appreciated and helps sustain the island community—ask about provenance of food and goods.
Safety
Tipping in Bainbridge Island
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping follows typical U.S. norms: 15–20% in sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $3–5 for taxi or rideshare drivers; tip service workers and tour guides where appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; small businesses and farmers market vendors may prefer cash—contactless payments and mobile wallets are also commonly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming bulbs and rhododendrons, and fewer crowds; some trails can be muddy—light layers and waterproof footwear are recommended.
Warmest and driest time with longer daylight and busy ferry and tourist activity; ideal for kayaking, beach days, and farmers markets—book accommodations in advance.
Cooler, crisp air with colorful foliage and quieter parks; this is mushroom and mushroom-hunting season for locals—bring layers for variable weather.
Wet and cool with shorter days, frequent drizzle and overcast skies; good for storm-watching from sheltered spots and visiting indoor galleries—expect lower ferry ridership.
Bainbridge Island at Night
Hiking in Bainbridge Island
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of multi-use trails through second-growth forest with loop options for short or moderate hikes and good trail signage.
Formal paths and garden walks through curated landscapes and native forest—ideal for contemplative walks and photography.
Coastal trails along rocky shorelines, tide pools, and forested sections with historic military remnants and varied terrain.
Quiet boardwalks and trails around a lake and wetlands area with good birdwatching and seasonal wildflowers.
Family-friendly trails, open fields, and a shoreline area with views—good for casual walks and community events.
Airports
How to reach Bainbridge Island by plane.
Approximately 30–50 minutes drive (plus ferry/bridge time) from Bainbridge Island depending on route; the major international airport for flights to and from the region.
Located north in Everett; offers limited commercial service and is an alternate for some domestic flights—about 1–1.5 hours drive depending on traffic and ferry routing.
Closer to Seattle, primarily general aviation and some regional services; useful for private flights and some cargo operations.
Not an airport but the primary passenger ferry connection to Bainbridge Island—frequent sailings to/from Winslow, often used by visitors flying into Seattle who then take the scenic ferry.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live on the island, attracted by good schools, parks, and a community-oriented lifestyle.
A notable retiree population values the island's quiet neighborhoods, access to healthcare, and cultural offerings.
A strong community of artists, gallery owners, restaurateurs, and makers contributes to the island's creative and entrepreneurial character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong local culture around kayaking, paddleboarding, and small-boat sailing thanks to calm bays and scenic shorelines.
Road and recreational cycling are popular; routes around the island and into hillier sections provide recreation for locals and visiting cyclists.
Parks and trails like Grand Forest and Fort Ward attract runners and organized community races at different times of the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bainbridge Island.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at cafés and restaurants; many places can adapt dishes and offer vegetable-forward tasting menus—farmers market produce also makes self-catering straightforward.
Vegan choices exist but can be more limited at fine-dining spots; casual cafés and market vendors typically offer salads, grain bowls, and vegan baked goods—call ahead for special requests at sit-down restaurants.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets with notice; bakeries and markets often have gluten-free products but cross-contamination can be a concern—ask staff about preparation practices.