The Kitsap Peninsula offers a retreat for those seeking a memorable vacation or a casual, low-key getaway. When family and friends from out of town visit, you can make the most of their time by touring around the area, enjoying popular activities and hidden gems alike. All it takes is a touch of thoughtful planning and a sprinkle of local insight.
Here’s where to start.
1. Enjoy a Ferry Boat Ride
While Kitsap is full of fun things to explore, Puget Sound presents another adventure for out-of-towners. Their road trip itinerary to Washington won’t feel complete unless you save time for a ferry ride to Seattle.
Everyone will get to feel the breeze in their hair as a local crew sails you to Seattle or Edmonds. You can catch a ride back whenever you’re ready and end the day in one of Kitsap County’s local restaurants. This is also a great way to spend the day if your loved ones don’t enjoy things like hiking.
2. Visit Popular Local Breweries and Wineries
The Puget Sound region is known for its local breweries, and West Sound is no exception. And if your visitors prefer wine, you can indulge them as well. You’ll find breweries and wineries in Gig Harbor, on Bainbridge Island, and everywhere in between. Schedule craft beer or winery “tours” for your loved ones before sitting down to eat. It’s a classic addition to any road trip itinerary through the northwestern corner of the country.
Many of these venues also offer food, plus events like trivia to keep everyone entertained. See what’s going on while your loved ones are in town to figure out how you’ll spend your evenings while they’re in the area.
3. Save Time for Water Sports
Kitsap has plenty of water sports to offer, especially if you have visitors during the warmer months. There are numerous rental shops around the Puget Sound that offer kayak rentals. As long as the Sound isn’t too choppy, you and your visitors can also paddle your way around the coastline or take the kayak around the numerous bays along the peninsula.
Paddleboarding is another water sport everyone might enjoy once the wind quiets down. Glide around the water between time spent fishing or swimming. If you have a boating license, you could even rent a boat and spend part of your trip out on the water. You never know — you might end up becoming a regular out on the water when your loved ones head back home.
4. Find Some Campsite Lodging
It wouldn’t be a road trip in Washington without a true outdoor experience. You and your loved ones could stay at one of the numerous campsites around Kitsap County or park a rented RV near one. While camping is most popular in the summer, many campgrounds are open year-round.
The Pacific Northwest features over 18 national parks, so ask your loved ones to browse potential local trails. Be prepared — they might ask for your recommendations since you’re in Kitsap all year round. Kitsap Memorial State Park or Manchester State Park offer scenic spots right by the water, perfect for roasting marshmallows after a day of exploring. If camping’s not your style, there are cozy cabins and lodges dotted around the area. Either way, you’ll feel close to nature.
Encourage your visitors to pack hiking boots, reusable water bottles and sunscreen to stay safe while having fun outside. While people associate sunburns and dehydration with beaches around the southern part of the United States, those things still happen in the lush forests around the Kitsap Peninsula.
5. Pack a Mix of Seasonal Clothes
The Pacific Northwest isn’t known for its scorching weather, but that doesn’t mean your visitors shouldn’t pack a range of clothes. With an average daily high of 75.1F in July, so you’ll need your favorite shorts and short-sleeved shirts if your loved ones are visiting during warmer seasons.
Kitsap’s weather can change quickly, as locals know well. Anyone visiting the area should bring daytime clothes that match the season, plus warm clothes for cooler nights. Layering is key to staying comfortable.
Create the Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary
Planning an incredible visit for loved ones visiting the Kitsap Peninsula will feel like a breeze once you get inspired. Remember to ask what they’d like to do while they’re in town so they don’t miss out on any vacation goals. You’ll make unforgettable memories with your favorite people any time of the year.
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