A Local’s Guide to Bainbridge Island, Washington

Bainbridge Island, WA is a small town just a ferry ride away outside of Seattle.  With breathtaking views, a robust culinary scene, and plenty of things to do and see, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.  The ferry schedule runs every 30 or 40 minutes, depending on the season, and standing on top of the ferry deck with the sea breeze in your hair is an experience unto itself. 

As a local for almost 10 years, here’s the insider’s guide to Bainbridge Island, WA.

 

This post was written by Nicole Lisson.  Nicole has lived in the PNW for almost 30 years and currently resides in the Kitsap area with her two dogs and husband.  When she’s not cooking up a storm in the kitchen, you can find her exploring the great outdoors or traveling to the next host pot on her top 30 list.

 

IF YOU WANT TO TAKE A PRIVATE TOUR OF THE ISLAND, CHECK OUT THIS ISLAND DISCOVERY AND WINE TOUR

 

How to Get to Bainbridge Island, Washington

Bainbridge Island is a quick 30 minute ferry ride from Seattle, WA.  There are no Ubers or Lyfts available on the island so if you are planning on exploring outside the town limits, then I would suggest bringing a car over (you can drive your car onto the ferry).  If you’re visiting Seattle and need to rent a car to drive to Bainbridge you can do so here.

If you aren’t planning on exploring outside of town limits, the easiest way to get to Bainbridge is by walking onto the ferry (versus driving).  The ferry runs every 30 minutes seven days a week.  You can check the ferry schedule here for the most accurate times.

 

Getting Around Bainbridge Island

As previously mentioned, Ubers or Lyfts are not available on the island, and while there are taxis and buses available, they’re not the most convenient.  Winslow Way is only a short five minute walk away from the ferry, and where most of the restaurants and shops are located.  So if you’re planning a day trip from Seattle and only wanting to explore within city limits, you can easily do so on foot.

However, if you want to explore the trails or wineries, taking a car over is the best option.  I recommend getting to the ferry terminal at least twenty minutes beforehand to ensure that you get a spot.

The rate for a compact car up to 14 feet (around 4 meters) is $12.05.  For those up to 22 feet (close to 7 meters), it’s $15.35.  Lastly, vehicles in the aforementioned categories owned by seniors or disabled drivers are $13.20 and $9.90.

 

Where to Stay on Bainbridge Island

There are several hotels and inns that are as charming as the island itself that you can stay at for a night or two.  The Eagle Harbor Inn is on the pricier side, but its convenient location right in downtown Winslow, and unmatched hospitality makes it a winning candidate.

Here are a few other options you can explore… 

• Marshall Suites 
• The Inn at Pleasant Beach
• Bainbridge Island Country Inn

 

DON’T WANT TO STAY IN A HOTEL?  CHECK OUT VRBO AND LIVE LIKE A LOCAL DURING YOUR STAY!

 

The Best Bars & Restaurants on Bainbridge Island

The culinary scene is rich on Bainbridge Island from award winning restaurants to cafes and coffee shops, you’ll never be hungry.  A majority of the restaurants are on the main strip (known as Winslow), and can be reached by foot.  Depending on what your in the mood for, here are a few of my top recommendations…

 

BA SA

The sister restaurant to Pho T&N located in Poulsbo, Ba Sa showcases traditional Vietnamese dishes inspired by French techniques and the abundance of products found in the PNW.  My favorite dishes at Ba Sa are – the dry aged ribeye, beef pho or ca chien. 

Address:  101 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

 

PROPER FISH

Proper Fish is one of the best fish and chips joints in the Pacific Northwest.  A lofty statement but Proper fish doesn’t mess around when it comes to deep frying fish.  This laid back restaurant is known for their British style crispy battered cod and thick cut fries in newspaper lined red baskets.  Want something cozy to chase away the chill from your bones?  Then order the thick and creamy chowder that uses ungodly amounts of butter to create a rich base for the sustainably caught cod. 

Address:  112 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

 

SAUCE NOUVELLE

This open concept cafe was opened back in May 2023 and has become one of the premier spots to grab lunch on the island.  Nicolas Ganea, owner and chef, has a background in gastronomy and brings a level of experimentation and creativity to his sandwiches and salads that up levels the basic to extraordinary. 

Address:  278 Winslow Way E #109, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

 

SEABIRD

No guide to Bainbridge can be complete without mentioning Seabird.  Owned by Brendan Mcgill, Seabird was named one of the top restaurants in America by Bon Appetit in 2023.  This intimate restaurant serves island inspired seafood and vegetables that take your taste buds on a journey of Pacific Northwest.

Address:  133 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

 

The Best Things to See & do on Bainbridge Island

There’s plenty to see and do on Bainbridge Island whether you’re traveling as a family, with friends, or solo.  If you have a car, you’re options extend far beyond Winslow Way and include…

 

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND MUSEUM OF ARTS

Located right as you get off the ferry, Bainbridge Island Museum of Arts is home to a growing number of artists and collections from the Pacific Northwest region.  The museum is free to the general public seven days a week, and I recommend heading here to soak in an hour or two of art education.

 

BAINBRIDGE VINEYARDS TASTING ROOM

Bainbridge Vineyards has been around for over 40 years, and specializes in delicate award-winning white wines, grown in the Puget Sound AVA.  The tasting room is open Thursday-Sunday from 1 pm-6 pm.  In the summer months, they have food trucks on site that you can enjoy while sipping on a chilled glass of wine.

 

EAGLE HARBOR BOOK CO.

This independent bookstore sells a variety of new & used books in a cozy and intimate setting that invites you to curl up in one of their many armchairs.  There’s also a section of local Bainbridge Island authors if you feel like bringing a slice of the island home with you. 

 

FAY BAINBRIDGE PARK

Located on the northeast corner of Bainbridge Island, this 17 acre park boasts 1,420 feet of stunning saltwater shoreline, and sweeping views of the Cascade Mountain Range.  It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic or even post up for the night at one of their campgrounds. 

 

SALT HOUSE MERCANTILE

This home goods store is inspired by the northwest coastal aesthetic, and sells a variety of hand thrown pottery, candles and specialty pantry items that would make a great keepsake of your trip.  Beautifully curated, you can spend hours wandering the aisles, and soaking in the calm vibes.

 

IF YOU’RE VISITING BAINBRIDGE ISLAND FROM SEATTLE, DON’T MISS THIS E-BIKE TOUR!

 

How Many Days Should You Spend on Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is the size of New York City but like most of the islands in the Pacific Northwest, its laid back lifestyle lends itself to a side quest versus a main adventure.  24-hours is a reasonable amount of time to eat some delicious food, and do a bit of shopping before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Seattle.

 

If you’re looking for a longer trip out of Seattle, check out:

• Hiking Lena Lake, Eating at Hama Hama Oyster, & Exploring Bainbridge Island

 

The Best Time to Visit Bainbridge Island

If you want to avoid hoards of tourists, Autumn and Spring are the best times to visit.  The weather is sunny, and in the mid 60s-70s.  Don’t forget to bring a rain jacket though!  This is the PNW after all; you never know when an unexpected rain shower will hit.

 

Washington Essentials – What You Need/Need to Know About Visiting Washington

 

Bainbridge Island is a near and dear place to my heart; somewhere that I’ve been lucky to call home for the past 10 years.  I’m always happy when people discover this slice of island paradise – and spread the word to their friends.  It’s a truly magical place that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

 

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