Discover the Top Things to Do in Kitsap County This Year
Looking for the best things to do in Kitsap County? Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or you’re a local ready to explore your own backyard, Kitsap County is packed with scenic charm, vibrant festivals, hidden gems, and family-friendly fun. From historic lighthouses and lively waterfronts to artisan towns and kayaking adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Kitsap County, nestled between Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula, offers a unique mix of natural beauty, small-town culture, and outdoor adventure—all within a short ferry ride or drive. If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry: we’ve narrowed it down to the Top 10 Things to Do in Kitsap County that will help you make the most of your time here.
This curated list blends the iconic and the underrated—ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and nature lovers. Let’s dive into what makes Kitsap one of Washington’s most exciting places to explore right now.
Here’s a detailed, conversational deep-dive into the Top 10 Things to Do in Kitsap County—your ultimate guide to soaking in the best of this scenic Washington gem:
1. Paddle the Kitsap Water Trails 🌊
With over 270 miles of saltwater shoreline and more than 100 kayak/SUP/sail stops, Kitsap offers endless water adventures, from tranquil coves to harbor wildlife‑watching spots. Gear up, rent a boat in Port Orchard or Poulsbo, and set sail on one of the nation’s only natural saltwater trails.
2. Explore Scenic State Parks
Kitsap brims with beautiful parks:
- Scenic Beach State Park: 121 acres along Hood Canal—ideal for camping, picnicking, boating, diving, and fishing.
- Manchester State Park: Hike former defense grounds, picnic in a converted torpedo building, fish, and enjoy beach access.
- Illahee State Park: Nestled just north of Bremerton, it features old-growth forest, shellfish harvesting, camping, hiking, and boating.
3. Hike Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park
Sprawling over 3,500 acres with 60 miles of trails, this is Kitsap’s largest park. Explore forested routes once part of a timber empire, and link up with wider “String of Pearls” trails connecting to Sound-to-Olympics routes.
4. Visit the Historic Point No Point Lighthouse
Located in Hansville, this is the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound, built in 1880. Today you can walk the shoreline, bird‑watch (many seabird migrations pass through), and explore the keeper’s quarters turned park headquarters en.wikipedia.org.
5. Discover Charming Small Towns
- Poulsbo (Little Norway): Stroll its waterfront, indulge in Viking-themed festivals, and eat local fare—June’s Viking Fest is a highlight.
- Gig Harbor: Quaint waterfront village with marina restaurants (try Anthony’s), boutique shops, and scenic strolls.
- Port Gamble: A preserved 1800s mill town—historic streets, general store, panoramic water views. A perfect day trip.
6. Immerse in Bremerton’s Culture
Bremerton is a vibrant hub of museums, parks, and community events:
- Puget Sound Navy Museum & USS Turner Joy naval destroyer open to tours.
- Stroll the Arts District, catch a show at the Admiral Theatre, and explore local markets and festivals like Bremerton Bridge Blast bremertonwa.gov.
- Outdoor movies, First Fridays, and farmers markets keep it lively all summer .
7. Attend Local Events & Festivals
From St. Patrick’s Parade and art walks to Viking Fest, Midsommer, and Pride celebrations, Kitsap’s calendar is packed with neighborhood events and seasonal fun visitkitsap.com. Don’t miss the Kitsap County Fair & Stampede every August—complete with rodeo, carnival rides, and live music rove.me.
8. Explore Unique Attractions & Hidden Gems
- Dickerson Falls & Manitou Beach Open Space on Bainbridge Island for short scenic hikes and water views.
- Frog Rock, Point White Pier, Blakely Harbor Park, Sakai Park, and quirky stone sculptures—great for family-friendly outdoor outings.
- In Poulsbo you’ll find Chief Sealth burial site, and in Suquamish the Tribal Canoe Journey celebrates indigenous culture.
9. Dine & Sip Like a Local
From seafood on Bremerton’s Sinclair Inlet to craft brews and gourmet bakeries:
- Saboteur Bakery, Anthony’s, Restaurant Lola shine in Bremerton .
- Bainbridge & Port Orchard host relaxing waterfront dining.
- Kitsap’s smaller towns have local wineries, breweries, distilleries, artisanal cafes and farmers’ markets full of fresh, Pacific Northwest flavors.
10. Relax on Waterfronts & Marinas
Whether you prefer serene beaches or lively marinas:
- Bainbridge Waterfront Park offers lawns, festivals, picnics, and sunsets.
- Bremerton Marina, Port Orchard Promenade, Poulsbo docks—all perfect for sunset strolls, old ship spotting, sea lions, and birds .
Why Kitsap County Rocks
Kitsap blends:
- Easy access: 30–60 minute ferry from Seattle.
- Stunning water/nature: Calm inlets, Olympic views, and miles of shoreline kitsapeda.org.
- Rich culture: Indigenous, Scandinavian heritage, navy history.
- Scenic towns: Walkable, full of artisans, farmers markets, and neighborhood charm .
- Active lifestyle: Kayaking, hiking, cycling, camping—all summer long.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Ferry to Bainbridge → hike Frog Rock and Dickerson Falls → beach picnic at Scenic Beach State Park.
Day 2: Head to Poulsbo → Viking Fest or local market stroll → kayaking & waterfront dinner.
Day 3: Visit Hansville & Point No Point Lighthouse → Port Gamble visit → evening at Bremerton’s marina & lively Bremerton First Friday.
With beaches, forests, festivals, food—and that signature Puget Sound vibe—Kitsap County is a must-visit. Whether you’re craving nature, festivity, history, or relaxation, it delivers. Bookmark this guide, go explore—and let me know if you want help booking or planning a specific trip!