Puget Sound is a beautiful northwest paradise located on the western side of Washington. It’s basically an inlet of the Pacific Ocean complete with islands, waterways, and cities that border the water, with Puget Sound comprising the downtown waterfront district. As is often the case, in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we rarely get the time to explore and check off things to do on our bucket list. There are many incredible things to do during the springtime in Puget Sound.
Here are five things you can check off your Puget Sound bucket list this spring.
1. Check Out Deception Pass State Park & Whidbey & Fidalgo Islands
Deception Pass is known as one of the best state parks in Washington, and it offers many recreational opportunities for families to enjoy during spring. From extensive tide pooling, beautiful hikes, camping, and boating, there are many things to enjoy in the spring at the Deception Pass State Park.
Whidbey Island is the biggest island in Puget Sound and one of the few that can be accessed by car. And if you are traveling by car, you get to reach this island by traveling through the absolutely breathtaking Deception Pass Bridge, which is a part of the Deception Pass State Park. This beautiful bridge connects Fidalgo Island to Whidbey Island and spans the narrow pass where you can see funneled tidal waters, creating intense rapids.
2. Visit Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island
One of the most incredible experiences you must strike off your Puget Sound bucket list this spring is a visit to the Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island. Bainbridge Island can be reached via a short and beautiful ferry ride from Seattle. It is also accessible by a bridge from the Kitsap Peninsula. The island is a popular getaway for the entire family to indulge in dining, shopping, and arts and culture. You can also take part in activities like kayaking, cycling, and camping at Fay Bainbridge Park.
As you reach the northern tip of this island, you come to the Bloedel Reserve, which has been voted as one of the best botanical gardens in the US. With over 150 acres of intricate gardens and beautiful structures, this nature reserve is a must-see.
3. Explore the Heart of the Sound
Vashon Island in Puget Sound is popularly known as the Heart of the Sound. This is a famous farming community that has an extensive collection of unique eateries, artist galleries, and boutique shops.
If you can, it's a great idea to bring your own bicycle along to explore the country roads here. Or, you can even rent a bike at the ferry terminal. If you arrive on a clear day, you get to take in some stunning views of the snow-covered Mount Rainier from the Point Robinson Lighthouse.
4. Visit Blake Island State Park
The beautiful Blake Island can only be accessed by boat. This is to help protect the huge marine park and its rich textures, beaches, and shorelines. A trip to Blake Island State Park is a great day getaway from Seattle. You can participate in many fun activities like kayaking, cycling, or staying at one of the three camping grounds on the island. On clear spring days, check out the jaw-dropping views of the Olympic Mountain.
The most popular attraction on the island is Tillicum Village, which celebrates the culture of the Pacific Northwest American Indian tribes.
5. Travel South to Anderson Island
One of the most popular things to do in spring in Puget Sound is to visit the magnificent Anderson Island. This is the southernmost island of Puget Sound, and you can reach it by taking a ferry from Tacoma. Anderson Island is an unspoiled and pristine island getaway that draws fewer crowds than some of the other islands of Puget Sound. There are plenty of attractions and activities to do here.
Dining, shopping, and great restaurants can be found throughout the island, along with scenic golf courses. The best part of visiting Anderson Island is taking in some of the most stunning views of the sunset over the water.
Are you visiting Puget Sound or new to the area? We’d love to give you some recommendations of local businesses and things to do. Contact us today for a guide to Puget Sound and beyond!