Cruising Puget Sound: Top 6 Destinations Near Seattle
By Debbie Hanson
May 09, 2024
Overview of cruising Puget Sound, six best places to cruise near Seattle. Where to experience the best views, ports to explore, summer boating experiences.
Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Puget Sound’s calm waters and majestic views of Mt. Rainier make it a favorite cruising route among boating enthusiasts. Learn about six of the top destinations to visit when cruising Puget Sound, near Seattle.
Blake Island Marine State Park
When considering the best cruising spots near Seattle, Blake Island Marine State Park is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can anchor up in a calm bay, explore miles of hiking trails, spend the day sea kayaking, go saltwater fishing, and watch picturesque sunsets over the Olympic Mountains. Before you go, be sure to purchase an annual or day-use Discover Pass that will provide you with state park access.
Port Madison on Bainbridge Island
Situated eight miles west of Seattle, Bainbridge Island is known for its charming waterfront villages and stunning views of the city skyline. Take a summer Puget Sound sailing trip along the island’s coastline to discover hidden coves and quiet sandy beaches. The quiet anchorage at Port Madison is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing while soaking up the natural beauty of the island.
Scandinavian Charm at Poulsbo
Located on the Kitsap Peninsula overlooking Liberty Bay, Poulsbo is referred to as “Little Norway” because of its Scandinavian influence. You’ll find colorful storefronts, historic landmarks, and a lively waterfront. Take a leisurely stroll along the town’s bustling boardwalk or sample some authentic Norwegian pastries at one of the local bakeries. With its rich maritime heritage, Poulsbo is a must-visit destination and one of the best places to cruise near Seattle.
Jarrell Cove on Harstine Island
One of the highlights of a summer boating trip through South Puget Sound is a visit to Harstine Island. You can reserve dock space or a mooring buoy at Jarrell's Cove Marina (open Memorial Day through Labor Day), then spend the day walking along the forested coastal trail at Jarrell Cove Marine State Park or exploring the ravine trails at Harstine Island State Park (a Discover Pass is required for access to both state parks). Jarrell Cove is a popular destination for saltwater fishing, paddling, swimming, sailboarding, waterskiing, and bird watching.
Historic Gig Harbor
Because of its scenic beauty and rich maritime history, Gig Harbor is another favorite destination in South Puget Sound. Cruise through the harbor’s narrow channels lined with charming waterfront homes or stop for some fresh seafood at one of the local eateries overlooking the bay. You can also book a summer sightseeing boat tour out of Gig Harbor to learn more about the wildlife, history and ecology of Puget Sound.
Shilshole Bay for Mountain Views
Located just minutes from downtown Seattle, Shilshole Bay is famous for its panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. Shilshole Bay Marina offers world-class amenities, dock space, overnight moorage, and a fishing pier. Located to the north of the marina is a public boat ramp, another fishing pier, and a scenic city park with hiking trails (Golden Gardens Park).
Now that you know about some of the best places to cruise near Seattle, you can start charting your course for Puget Sound. Get ready to make summer boating memories that will last a lifetime.
