Kingston, Port Gamble and Hansville are all iconic North Kitsap small towns that are perfect for exploration and relaxation. Here's our don't-miss list of locations, points of interest perfect for a day trip or an extended visit.
Hansville highlights
Hansville is the northen-most community on the Kitsap Peninsula - it's also one of the smallest and most quaint towns there is. Hansville is known for it's peaceful vibes, the stretches of sandy beach and the iconic Point No Point Lighthouse.
Norwegian Point Park
As you arrive in Hansville Norwegian Point Park is one of the first places you'll encounter. Pull over and grab a bite at the always delicious Hansgrill Restaurant and Hansville Grocery & Provisions. Stop in for sandwishes, snacks, groceries or for a dine in meal. They are the perfect picnic supply stop as you make your way to the beach.
Norwegian Point Park has easy parking and immediate water access, not to mention epic views!
Point No Point Lighthouse & Park
Note: Point No Point's main parking area is closed and you may have to park several hundred meters away and walk into the park. That said a visit to the historic lighthouse is a Kitsap Peninsula highlight. The beach at Point No Point is perfect for beach combing and exploration so take your time exploring this peaceful park. You can book the Lighthouse Keepers quarters if you want to step directly into history and enjoy some of the best views from a rental on the whole peninsula!
Foulweather Bluff Preserve
This is one of Kitsap's most treasured natural escapes — a 100-acre preserve with a sandy beach, salt marsh, and peaceful forest trails. Known for its rich birdlife, a driftwood-strewn shoreline, and uber serene atmosphere, Foulweather Bluff can feel like your own private paradise.
Port Gamble highlights
Just a few minutes from Hansville or Kingston is one of Kitsap's most historic, walkable and charming small towns - Port Gamble. Port Gamble feels like stepping back in time with its Victorian era home, white picket fences and historic buildings and architecture.
Port Gamble General Store
Part general store, part souvenir shop, part local hub for regionally made products - the Port Gamble General Store has bee the center of commerce in this tiny town for many many years. With a yummy cafe in the back (sandwiches, ice cream and coffee) and a free marine life museum on the 2nd floor the vast General Store is the kind of place that you could spend a few hours in.
Butcher & Baker Provisions
Some of the yummiest food on the whole Peninsula comes out of Butcher & Baker. Their dine-in or take away options will leave your tastebuds doing the happy dance and they have a full selection of deserts and baked goods as well as a stocked drink case with beer and cider and an espresso bar. Take your food to go and eat on the lawns that surround the building or dine in.
Olympic Outdoor Center
Got a thirst for adventure? Rent kayaks or mountain bikes at Olympic Outdoor Center or jump into one of their guided kayak experiences. They are fully stocked with adventure and outdoor gear to purchase as well.
Walker-Ames House and the Port Gamble History Museum
At the center of town, next to the General Store is the Walker-Ames House, a striking 1888 mansion known as one of Washington’s most haunted homes! Regular Ghost Walk tours lead visitors on an evening excursion into the paranormal with Walker-Ames as the centerpiece. Just steps away, the Port Gamble History Museum brings the town's fascinating past to life, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories from the mill town’s early days.
House 11 Taproom & Bottle Shop
This beloved pit stop in Port Gamble feels like enjoying a drink in your best friends backyard. Set in a casual, warm and homey environment the beer and wine selection are carefully curated and always have something for everyone. Sandwiches and charcuterie ensure you won't starve as you sip on your favorite drink.
Port Gamble Heritage Park
Spanning more than 3,500 glorious acres of forest and shoreline, this massive park is one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest county parks and a paradise for anyone who loves to connect with nature or relax on a trail. Sandwiched between Port Gamble, and Kingston PGHP boasts miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching.
Kingston highlights
Mike Wallace Park
Kingston's waterfront park is the perfect place to watch ferries come and go, picnic or enjoy one of the many events that utilize the space. From the Kingston Public Market (Sundays) to big annual events like the Pirate Festival, the park is Kingston's outdoor gathering space.
Saltair Beach Park
Right next to the Kingston ferry terminal Saltair is a charming waterfront escape with big views with super easy beach access for beachcombing, and launching kayaks or just sitting among the driftwood taking it all in.
Eat your way across Kingston
As soon as you enter Kingston, whether you're stepping off the ferry or driving in, you're met with a robust collection of local eateries, cafes, to-go spots and breweries. We've compiled a more detailed list here - but suffice it to say Kingston has your hunger handled with fresh poke, award-winning pizza, awesome empanadas, perfect pub food and bakery bliss.
Firehouse Theater
Firehouse is located in a converted historic firehouse in downtown Kingston, just four blocks up from the Kingston ferry. This cozy, locally owned hometown theater shows first run, independent, foreign language, documentary, and classics and serves beer, wine, and cider!
Heronswood Garden
Just a few minutes outside of town is Heronswood Garden is a world-class botanical enclave surrounded by evergreen forest. Originally founded by renowned horticulturist Dan Hinkley, the garden is all serene paths wending through lush landscaping and meticulously designed garden features that change beautifully with the seasons. Now owned and stewarded by the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, Heronswood combines horticultural excellence with cultural heritage, offering visitors both breathtaking beauty and a sense of place rooted in the land’s history.
White Horse Golf Club
White Horse Golf Club offers a scenic and satisfying PNW golf experience. Known for its big views of the Olympic and Cascade mountains and a course that is unique and challenging Whitehorse a favorite for both seasoned golfers and casual players. Guests can relax with a bite and bevy at the clubhouse and restaurant.
Summary
- There are many places to explore in Kitsap
