Kitsap County is known for its natural beauty and ease of access to neighboring areas like the Olympic Peninsula, Seattle, and more. While we are surrounded by treasures, it’s the idealistic spots within our own home that have our hearts.
Photo by Port of Bremerton
Tucked away along Twin Spits Road in Hansville, the Foulweather Bluff Preserve offers a short walk through a lush forest that opens to a peaceful, sandy beach. It’s perfect for a quiet picnic, shell combing, or birdwatching; especially in the wetland meadow, where all kinds of wildlife can be spotted.
In Seabeck, the 184-acre Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve feels like a world away. Winding trails, a saltwater beach, and the whimsical tree stump house make this one of the most magical spots in Kitsap. Originally protected to prevent housing development, it’s a proud example of what makes the Pacific Northwest so special.
Closer to the city, a hidden beach at Bremerton Marina offers a peaceful spot to launch a kayak or take a lunch break by the water. Tucked just off the roundabout near Marina Square, it’s proof that you don’t have to leave town to find serenity – just make sure you visit at low tide!
And if you’re up for a little evening magic, don’t miss the seasonal bioluminescence that appears in late summer. While many head to Port Gamble to catch the glow, Poulsbo’s waterfront trail is another great place to spot the sparkle. Head out after dark, look closely at the water, and you might just see it shimmer.
Photo by Kemuel Newlin
Of course, some spots are popular for a reason, with one of them being Big Beef Creek in Seabeck. Known for its postcard-worthy views and saltwater access, this area is especially popular from May to June when bald eagles gather at low tide, making it a dream for wildlife photographers and nature lovers alike.
Port Orchard Marina is expansive, with the Port of Bremerton operating nearly the entire Downtown Waterfront. One of the reasons it is so acclaimed, though, is the children’s park overlooking the beautiful Sinclair Inlet and sandy water access mere steps away. The park also features picnic areas and a variety of year-round events, making it a staple for South Kitsap Summers.
And finally, Salsbury Point County Park deserves a spotlight not just for its sweeping views of Hood Canal, but for its deep significance to local military families. For years, it’s served as a cherished gathering point to wave off or welcome home loved ones aboard Navy vessels.–
We hope this roundup inspires you to discover (or rediscover!) the waterways that make Kitsap such a beautiful place to call home. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just dipping your toes in, the best part of summer might just be waiting at the shoreline.
Erica has led the Marketing & Communications department at the Port of Bremerton for the past three years, where her work centers on engaging the Kitsap community and celebrating the people who make it thrive. Erica is best known for creating the Port’s tenant feature series and the popular newsletter ‘Behind the Hangar Doors’. She also brings experience with managing websites, social media, and events for local organizations and small businesses – both professionally and through volunteer work. Her favorite stories are the ones that highlight hidden gems and the unique spirit of Kitsap.