Things To Do
in Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor is a charming maritime town on the Puget Sound in Washington state known for its picturesque working waterfront, historic downtown and views across the harbor. The town blends small-town friendliness with waterfront restaurants, art galleries and boutique shops clustered along tree-lined streets and piers. Boating, kayaking and oyster culture are integral to local life, and there are easy access points for exploring nearby state parks and scenic drives.
Gig Harbor is an accessible base for day trips to Tacoma, Mount Rainier and the Olympic Peninsula while retaining a relaxed, coastal atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a stroll along the beautiful Gig Harbor Waterfront. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee at a local café while taking in the views of the marina and historic boats. Visit the local shops and art galleries to get a feel for the community's artistic vibe.
Spend your afternoon kayaking in the calm waters of Gig Harbor Bay, where you can paddle alongside seals and seabirds. Afterward, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, featuring fresh catch from the Puget Sound. Take a scenic walk at Volunteer Park to relax and enjoy nature.
As the sun sets, head back to the waterfront for a picturesque view of the harbor illuminated by the golden light. Enjoy an outdoor dinner at a patio restaurant, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the harbor. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the docks, soaking in the charm of the evening.
Start your day by exploring the Harbor History Museum, where you can learn about Gig Harbor's rich maritime heritage and the indigenous peoples of the region. The museum features engaging exhibits and artifacts, providing a deep insight into the town's past. Don't miss the chance to see the historic fishing vessel, the
After your museum visit, take a guided tour of the beautiful Skansie Brothers Park, where you'll find picnic spots and scenic views of the waterfront. Grab a snack from a local bakery and head to the park for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. Enjoy watching boats pass by as you immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
In the evening, delight your senses with dinner at a fine dining restaurant that specializes in local ingredients. Enjoy the laid-back ambiance as you taste dishes inspired by the sea and land. End the night with a visit to a local pub for live music and a lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular cafe) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-220 |
| 🦪Seafood dinner (entrée) | $20-40 |
| 🚗Gas (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque waterfront, boating culture and fresh seafood
- Close to natural attractions: state parks, Puget Sound and regional parks
- Relaxed small-town charm with good access to Tacoma and Seattle
- Excellent opportunities for photography, kayaking and low-impact outdoor activities
- Limited late-night nightlife and fewer urban amenities compared with big cities
- Weather can be rainy and overcast much of the year
- Can be busy on summer weekends with higher accommodation prices
- Some activities require advance bookings or a vehicle to reach
Places to Visit in Gig Harbor
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic waterfront shots of colorful boats, pilings, and reflections; golden hour is especially photogenic with lights and harbor activity.
Long-exposure opportunities, sunrise and sunset reflections, and close-up shots of moored boats and tidal textures.
Rocky shorelines, tidepools, and panoramic views across the sound — good for nature and landscape photography.
Elevated viewpoints with sweeping views of the harbor, nearby islands and, on clear days, Mount Rainier in the distance.
Festivals, farmers market and local parades offer candid street photography and a chance to capture community life.
Food in Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly shucked local oysters from nearby beds — served raw, grilled or as part of platters; best found at waterfront oyster bars and seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Seasonal wild-caught salmon, often grilled or cedar-planked and featured on many dinner menus in local restaurants.
Creamy chowders made with local clams and potatoes — a comforting staple in many waterfront eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (spring–fall) offering local produce, bakeries, prepared food vendors and occasional live music — great for snacks, local cheeses and farm-fresh goods.
Scattered food trucks and weekend pop-ups near the waterfront and parks serve tacos, sandwiches, and local specialties when in season — check local listings for exact locations and hours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are typically relaxed and polite—small talk and courtesy go a long way. Respect private docks and posted signage along the waterfront.
Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect tidepools and wildlife, and adhere to shellfish harvesting rules and park regulations.
Make reservations for popular restaurants and boat tours, especially in summer; be on time for booked activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gig Harbor
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping norms apply: restaurants 15–20% of pre-tax bill for good service, 20%+ for exceptional service; bartenders $1–2 per drink or 15–20% for tabs; taxis, rideshares and chauffeurs 10–20%.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry small cash for very small vendors or farmers market stalls, though many accept cards or mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; trails and parks green up quickly but expect occasional rain. Great season for birdwatching, fewer crowds and lower off-season rates.
Warm, often sunny and the driest time of year — ideal for boating, kayaking and outdoor dining. Expect more visitors on weekends and book activities early.
Crisp air and colorful foliage, with fewer tourists and pleasant hiking conditions; rainfall increases later in the season. Excellent for shellfish harvests and cozy restaurants.
Cool, wet and overcast with frequent rain; mild temperatures compared to inland areas but shorter daylight. Some outdoor activities are still possible; bring waterproof layers and check tide/weather if planning shoreline walks.
Gig Harbor at Night
Hiking in Gig Harbor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Near Gig Harbor with shoreline walks, tidepooling areas and short trails offering views across Puget Sound and nearby islands.
A short drive away with forested trails, saltwater shoreline, picnic areas and scenic viewpoints — good for easy hikes and beach exploring.
A longer day trip but iconic: a range of hikes from easy to strenuous with alpine meadows, waterfalls and dramatic mountain scenery; best in summer for accessibility.
Ferry/drive access to Olympic National Park and nearby trail systems for rainforest hikes, coastal walks and longer backcountry treks, depending on time and interest.
Airports
How to reach Gig Harbor by plane.
Major international airport about 35–50 minutes by car depending on traffic; offers the widest range of domestic and international flights and easy rental-car options.
Smaller airport near Gig Harbor serving general aviation and limited commercial services; convenient for private flights and some regional connections.
Regional airport across the sound (requires a ferry or drive) with limited commercial and general aviation services; useful for some regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute to Tacoma or Seattle for work, bringing a mix of urban and small-town lifestyles.
The area attracts retirees seeking waterfront living, scenic views and a quieter pace.
Gig Harbor has family-friendly neighborhoods, schools and community activities, making it popular with families.
The region is part of the traditional homeland of local Coast Salish tribes; Native American culture and history are important to the area's identity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Given the harbor setting, recreational sailing, yachting and small-boat activities are very popular among residents and visitors.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and rowing are common for fitness, recreation and touring the inlets.
Community support for high school football, soccer, baseball and softball is strong, reflecting local family-oriented sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gig Harbor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at cafes and many restaurants — expect salads, grain bowls and creative vegetable dishes; call ahead for full vegetarian menus in finer-dining spots.
Vegan choices are more limited but present: many cafes offer dairy-free milk and some restaurants provide vegan entrees or can adapt dishes on request.
Gluten-free options are commonly accommodated; most restaurants can adapt seafood and salad dishes, but always notify staff about strict gluten requirements.