Port Orchard

Port Orchard’s identity is anchored in its connections to the past. Originally a booming lumber town called Sidney, Port Orchard became Kitsap County’s first incorporated city in 1890. It wooed the county seat away from Port Madison on Bainbridge Island in 1893 and remains the center of county government.

The city is located just south of Bremerton across the Sinclair Inlet. The passenger-only ferry, known as the "foot ferry", links the two cities.

Downtown Port Orchard offers a variety of shopping including antiques, gifts and crafts, and a variety of dining options.

Arriving by water, you'll find a large public marina making Port Orchard a favored boating destination. Marina Park, with its boardwalk and covered gazebo, offers beach access and is the site of the summer outdoor Farmer's Market.

View our video - "Journey to Port Orchard"

• Port Orchard Stats, including Weather & Population
• Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce
• City of Port Orchard
• Bay Street Association - downtown Port Orchard
• Port Orchard History
• PORT ORCHARD-BREMERTON FERRY: Passengers Only

Smaller sub-communities south of Port Orchard include:

• Colby, In the mid-1880s, lumps of coal were discovered along a small stream, giving rise to the name of Coal Bay, which was later shortened to Colby. Colby History.
• South Colby, Along a backroad that leads to the Southworth Ferry dock overlooking Yukon Harbor.
• Harper, The town on the south shore of Yukon Harbor was renamed in 1902 for state Sen. F.C. Harper, who helped the town secure a post office. The action was taken despite protests to retain the original name of Terra Vaughn.
• Manchester, A charming waterfront village with spectacular views of Puget Sound, a public boat dock, bike routes, shopping, and a restaurant.