EDITION
Newcomer'sGuide KITSAP PENINSULA - NAVY
We're lifelong locals, and we're proud to call the Kitsap Peninsula home We know moving comes with many questions and decisions, so we created this guide as a resource to help you get better acquainted with our area and all it offers
Windermere Real Estate/West Sound is a family-owned franchise We have offices in Kingston, Poulsbo, Silverdale, and on Bainbridge Island, and we're invested in the communities we serve We work with renters, buyers, and sellers across the peninsula and often in neighboring counties Many of our experts specialize in relocation and have worked with military families for years
We greatly appreciate the sacrifices you and your family make, and it would be a privilege to assist you in any way we can
Sincerely,
Tori and Carter Dotson
Table of Contents The Kitsap Peninsula Renting vs Buying About Windermere Property Management Our Communities Local Resources & Our Explore Videos Early Childhood Education (Daycares, PK - K) Summer Camps Recreation Dining and Entertainment Home Buying Resources Explore a Neighborhood Contact Us 1 2 4 5 - 10 11 12 - 13 14 15 16 18 20 21
The Kitsap Peninsula
The Kitsap Peninsula sits in the heart of Puget Sound, nestled between the Olympic and Cascade Mountain ranges There are 32 unique communities, including: Kingston, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Bremerton
Kitsap’s Native American, Scandinavian, military and pioneer attractions are all within an hour’s drive, and Seattle is a ferry ride away. Our area offers an abundance of activities with beaches and trails, golf clubs, water sports, award-winning breweries and restaurants, various shops, and much more.
There are many amazing community events happening throughout the year. Check out our Kitsap Events Guide to learn about annual and recurring events From free summer concert series to festivals and parades, there are a variety of ways to join in on the fun
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prices as of February 1, 2024
Average rental prices are from our nearly 700 Windermere Property Management rentals Average home sale prices are from the fourth quarter of 2023, as reported by TrendGraphix, a leading MLS data provider Our rental homes and homes for sale tend to go quickly, so it really helps to have a well-connected, local guide who understands your needs
Average Rental Price for a 3-bed single-family home
Bainbridge Island: $3,200/month
Bremerton: $2,319/month
Hansville: $2,100/month
Kingston/Indianola: $2,600/month
Port Orchard: $2,775/month
Poulsbo: $2,800/month
Silverdale: $2,813/month
Average Sale Price for a single-family home
Bainbridge Island: $1 7M
Bremerton: $505K
Hansville: $737K
Kingston/Indianola: $705K
Port Orchard: $571K
Poulsbo: $697K
Silverdale: $638K
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Renting
From apartments to single-family homes, there are many rental options in our area to consider.
View Our Rental Properties
Windermere Property Management
2023 Stats
Watch our video to learn about our office or view our rental properties.
www.windermereforrent.com
9939 Mickelberry Rd NW, Suite B
Silverdale, WA 98383
Call: (360) 516 - 6243
Office Hours: Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Email: westsoundpm@windermere.com
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Communities
Bremerton
The largest city in Kitsap County, Bremerton's population is over 41,000. It has been shaped by the military and business development. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, breweries, art galleries, and live music venues. Learn more
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 24 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 13 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 1 hr. ferry or 30 min. passenger-only Fast Ferry
Silverdale
Silverdale is Kitsap's commercial center with a population of over 21,000. There's a range of businesses big and small, including staples like Target, Costco, and Trader Joe's, alongside local bakeries, restaurants, boutiques, and a glass art studio. Learn more.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 14 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 11 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 18 min. drive to Bremerton's 1 hr. ferry or 30 min. passenger-only Fast Ferry
Poulsbo
A unique town of 10,600 people, Poulsbo blends Norwegian immigrant influence with indigenous Suquamish roots. It's often called "Little Norway" and its charming downtown has a vibrant arts community, an eclectic mix of businesses, and many outdoor activities. Learn more
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 16 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 20 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 15 min. drive to Kingston's 30 min. passengeronly Fast Ferry or 20 min. drive to Bainbridge Island's 35 min. ferry
For additional information, here are some helpful resources
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With thousands of acres of forests and open spaces to enjoy, there's natural beauty all around us.
View Public Parks & Trails
Communities
Bainbridge Island
From the arts to the outdoors, boutiques to fine dining, Bainbridge Island has an array of activities. With a population of less than 25,000, island living offers a slower pace. When the Emerald City calls, hop on a ferry and you'll soon be in Seattle. Learn more.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 39 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 43 min.
Seattle Ferry Option: 35 min. ferry
Suquamish
Part of the Port Madison Indian Reservation for the Suquamish Tribe, Suquamish has a population of over 4,000. This tranquil community has stunning beach views, the beautiful Suquamish Museum , and a rich history, including Chief Seattle's gravesite. It's conveniently close to Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, and Indianola.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 27 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 30 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 12 min. drive to Kingston's 30 min. passengeronly Fast Ferry or 13 min. drive to Bainbridge's 35 min. ferry
Indianola
A peaceful seaside town, Indianola has a population of about 3,500 and it's also part of the Port Madison Indian Reservation. Indianola is home to local artists, outdoor enthusiasts, families and retirees. Many enjoy its natural beauty, 900-foot pier, and its proximity to places like Suquamish, Port Gamble, and Kingston. Learn more.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 29 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 33 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 10 min. drive to Kingston's 30 min. passengeronly Fast Ferry or 24 min. drive to Bainbridge's 35 min. ferry
For additional information, here are some helpful resources
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The Kitsap Peninsula has over 370 miles of shoreline and is a popular destination for water-based activities.
View Interactive Map of the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails
Communities
Kingston
Kingston is a charming town just a ferry ride away from Seattle. It has about 2,000 people, and some wonderful restaurants and businesses. Not far from downtown are popular places like White Horse Golf Club and Heronswood botanical garden, owned by the S'Klallam Tribe. It's conveniently close to Poulsbo, Hansville, and Port Gamble. Learn more.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 30 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 34 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 40 min. passenger-only Fast Ferry to Seattle or 30 min. ferry to Edmonds
Hansville
On the northernmost tip of the Kitsap Peninsula lies Hansville, a quiet town of over 3,000. It boasts the lowest Kitsap rainfall and its popular Point No Point beach hosts the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound. It has a few places for a bite to eat and is an excellent seaside retreat.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 36 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 40 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 10 min. drive to Kingston's 30 min. passengeronly Fast Ferry or 24 min. drive to Bainbridge's 35 min. ferry
Port Gamble
An old company logging town, Port Gamble has well-preserved New England-style homes, which now contain popular shops and restaurants. Port Gamble is home to about 900 people and it's also known for its excellent hiking and biking trails, and paranormal activity claims. Learn more.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 25 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 30 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 10 min. drive to Kingston's 30 min. passengeronly Fast Ferry or 24 min. drive to Bainbridge's 35 min. ferry
For additional information, here are some helpful resources
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Communities
Port Orchard
Port Orchard is a lively waterfront community with a population of over 14,000. Its downtown features a variety of businesses from bistros to antique shops, boutiques to a yacht club. Many love its vibrant Public Market, and Port Orchard is close to Bremerton and Gig Harbor.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 24 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 14 min.
Seattle Ferry Options: 15 min. drive to Bremerton's 1 hr. ferry or 30 min. passenger-only Fast Ferry
Mason County
Mason County consists of small cities like Belfair, Allyn-Grapeview, and Shelton. This county has over 66,000 people, stunning mountain views, the beautiful Hood Canal, and Lake Cushman.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 30 min. from Belfair, 47 min. from Allyn-Grapeview, 1 hr. from Shelton
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 19 min. from Belfair, 35 min. from Allyn-Grapeview, 48 min. from Shelton
Seattle Ferry Options: 20 min. drive from Belfair to Bremerton's 1 hr. ferry or 30 min. passenger-only Fast Ferry
Gig Harbor
Crossing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge is a wonderful sight, and just across is the beautifully unique city of Gig Harbor. While it has grown in recent years to around 10,000 people, its downtown still maintains its fishing village charm. There are many great waterfront restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and shops.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bangor: 38 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton: 28 min.
Avg. Drive Time to Seattle: 46 min.
For additional information, here are some helpful resources
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Local Resources
Bremerton-Kitsap Airporter
Dungeness Line Shuttle
"Good To Go!" Toll Pass Account Info
Kitsap Transit's Buses and Passenger-Only Fast Ferries
Paine Field Airport - Everett
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
SoundTransit Trains and Buses - Everett to Seattle WA State Ferries
Macaroni Kid Kitsap: kid-friendly events & more
Military Spouses of Kitsap - Facebook group: easy way to get connected
Visit Kitsap: local information for tourists
Windermere Sound Living - Facebook page: local events, stories & more
Bainbridge Island School District and schools' ratings
Central Kitsap School District and schools' ratings
Kitsap's private schools and schools' ratings
Kitsap Regional Library
North Kitsap School District and schools' ratings
Peninsula School District - Gig Harbor and schools' ratings
South Kitsap School District and schools' ratings
Our Explore Video Series
Each
Silverdale
Bainbridge
Poulsbo
Kingston 11
community has its own personality Get glimpses of the main areas we serve Explore Bremerton Explore
Explore
Island Explore
Explore
Early Childhood Education
In addition to Naval Base Kitsap Child & Youth Programs, here are some other options
We are not endorsing any in particular; we're simply providing a list to help you get started Options with an asterisk (*) offer a military discount on their website & others may as well
Daycare/Preschool
Bainbridge Island Child Care Center
St Cecelia Catholic School
Bethany Lutheran Preschool
Bainbridge Island Montessori
Bainbridge Cooperative Nursery School
Hazel Creek Montessori
Central Kitsap Montessori
Kitsap Childcare and Preschool
Loving Hands Learning Center
Treetop Village
Cadence Academy Preschool
Cottesmore Childcare
Discovery Village
Stepping Stones Preschool
Kingston Co-Operative Pre-School
Toys & Tots Day Care
Kitsap Head Start
Creative Kids Learning Center
Nature's Knowledge House Preschool
Stepping Stones Learning Center
Little Ducklings Preschool*
Vinland Lutheran Preschool
North Kitsap Preschool
Poulsbo Cooperative Preschool
Children's Garden Montessori
Learn & Grow Preschool
First Stage Montessori
Martha & Mary KIDS*
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island
12 Type Daycare, PK PK-8 PK PK PK Daycare, PK PK-K PK-3 Daycare, PK Daycare, PK Daycare, PK Daycare PK Daycare, PK PK Daycare, PK PK Daycare, PK-6 PK-K PK-K Daycare, PK PK Daycare, PK PK PK-K PK PK Daycare, PK-K Location
Gig Harbor Gig Harbor Gig Harbor Gig Harbor Kingston Kingston Multiple Port Orchard Port Orchard Port Orchard Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo, Silverdale
Bremerton Bremerton Bremerton Bremerton
Early Childhood Education (continued)
Daycare/Preschool
The Cottage Montessori School
Silverdale Lutheran Preschool
Childtime*
Silverdale Kindercare*
Lifehouse School-Age Care (Bangor)
Child Care & DC - Emerald Heights
Jackson Park CDC-Kitsap Base*
Green Gables Montessori*
Outdoor Preschools
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Type PK Daycare, PK Daycare, PK PK+ PK Daycare, PK PK-K PK+ PK-K Location Silverdale Silverdale Silverdale Silverdale
Silverdale Silverdale Silverdale Suquamish
Suquamish Tribe's Early Learning Center
SIlverdale
have
in
is the perfect area for kids to explore the outdoors Here are
to consider Name Madrona School Barnacles and Bees Homegrown Outdoor Preschool Wildwise School Magnolia Forest Preschool Type PK-K PK-K PK PK-K PK-K Location Bainbridge Island Bremerton Indianola Kingston, Port Gamble Poulsbo
Outdoor preschools
gained
popularity, and this
some options
Name
Summer Camps
And, our beautiful summer weather makes outdoor camps very appealing
Islandwood
Kids Discovery Museum Camp
Bainbridge Family Martial Arts
Kitsap Forest Theater
Camp Indianola
Sailing Camp
4-H Camp via Washington State University
Magnolia Forest Preschool's Camp
Wild Wise
Champions (at local Elementary Schools)
Bricks 4 Kidz
Stepping Stones Learning Center's Camp
The Whole Horse Place's Summer Camps
Painted Valley Farms
Dahlia Hill Farm Center
STEM in the Woods (Silverwood School)
Sailing Camp
YMCA Summer Day Camp
Operation Xtreme Military Kids' Camp
Port Orchard
Port
Silverdale
Silverdale, Bremerton
Silverdale, Port Orchard
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Grades Various PK - K Various Various Various Various Various PK Various Various Various PK - K Various Various Various Various Various Various Various Location Bainbridge Island Bainbridge Island Bainbridge Island Bremerton Indianola Kingston Multiple Multiple Multiple Multiple Multiple
Orchard Poulsbo Poulsbo Poulsbo
Recreation
Eager to get outside and explore? Here are some fun ideas
Albers Marcovina Vista Garden in Bremerton
Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island
The Brothers Greenhouses in Port Orchard
Heronswood Garden in Kingston
Illahee Preserve in Bremerton
Manchester State Park in Port Orchard
Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck
Bainbridge Island Farmers' Market
Bremerton Community Farmers Market
Central Kitsap Farmers Market
Kingston Public Market
Kitsap Fresh - Various Locations, Order Online
Port Orchard Farmers Market
Poulsbo Farmers Market
Shelton Farmers Market
The Waterfront Farmers Market - Gig Harbor
Bainbridge's Exotic Aquatics
Bainbridge Island Saddle Club
Bremerton's Glenn Jarstad Aquatic Center
Cycling, Mountain Biking and BMX Info
Fishing and Crabbing Info
Gig Harbor Fly Shop
Kingston's White Horse Golf Club
Kitsap Sailing Foundation
Olympic Outdoor Center - Various Locations
Silverdale's All Star Lanes
Silverdale's YMCA
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Dining & Entertainment
There are many great restaurants across the Kitsap Peninsula Grab a bite at Kingston's Grub Hut, Tizley's EuroPub in Poulsbo, or Bremerton's Axe & Arrow Gastropub If you have little ones, check out kid-friendly spots like Poulsbo's Green Light Diner, Silverdale's The Oak Table Cafe, Port Orchard’s Seabeck Pizza, and Bainbridge’s Doc's Marina Grill
For fine dining, visit Kingston's D'Vine Bistro, Poulsbo's Paella Bar, Bainbridge's Restaurant Marché, and Bremerton's Restaurant Lola We also have a wide range of cuisine, including Poulsbo's Kachai Thai Kitchen, Bainbridge's BASA Restaurant, and Bremerton's Taqueria Los Cazadores
Many places are known for having great live music Some examples include Poulsbo's Slippery PIg Brewery, Sully's Bistro in Suquamish, and Bremerton's Manette Saloon and Admiral Theatre You can also watch wonderful performances at venues like Port Gamble Theatre, Bainbridge Performing Arts, and Bremerton Community Theatre
From local history to artwork, our museums are an excellent way to spend an afternoon Check out Suquamish Museum in Suquamish, Bainbridge's KiDiMu (Kids Discovery Museum), Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, and Bremerton's U S Naval Undersea Museum
Hidden Gems Across Kitsap
Enjoy a Fun Night Out in North Kitsap
Kitsap Bites
Eat and Drink Locally
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Buying
Purchasing a home can be a complex, competitive process. Our specialists know the market and will serve as your advocate and guide.
Home Buying Resources
View Our Home Buying Guide
Additional Resources
Real Estate Resources for Military Buyers
The Importance of Pre-Approval
Why Do I Need Homeowners Insurance?
How to Increase Your Buying Power
Home Sale Contingent Offer - Pros and Cons
Buying a House Out of State - FAQs
Questions to Ask When Buying a New Construction Home
Home Loans Q & A with Mortgage Consultant
Our Partners
Penrith Home Loans is a full-service mortgage bank providing homebuyers with complete home-financing solutions. Penrith began in Seattle, Washington over 20 years ago and they now serve over 50 neighborhoods across the western United States. Learn more.
Moreland Insurance Agency is an independent brokerage offering homeowners, auto, life, boat, business, and RV insurance. Learn more.
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Why Windermere
Our offices in Kingston, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Silverdale value people over properties With over 120 agents, Windermere/West Sound works with home buyers and sellers across Kitsap and in neighboring cities Integrity, industry expertise, dedication, and advocacy are at the heart of what we do We're proud to have the largest market share across Kitsap County, and even prouder knowing that represents hundreds of families we
We love the communities we serve Many of our agents grew up here or have lived here for years We have the resources, marketing tools, and vendor relationships to ensure success
Giving back is an integral part of our work In fact, a portion of every agent's commission is donated to the Windermere Foundation Collectively, our offices and the 300+ Windermere offices across 9 states have raised over $53,000,000 These donations directly benefit local hospitals, homeless shelters, food banks, and more
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Learn about a neighborhood's recent sales, schools, and more.
Explore a Neighborhood
View Neighborhood Tools
Our four residential real estate brokerages and our property management office all have local experts who are ready to help you find your new home
Windermere Bainbridge Island
www windermerebainbridge com
249 Winslow Way E Ste #400
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Call: (360) 842 - 5626
Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daily
Email: silverdale@windermere com
Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram
Windermere Poulsbo
www windermerepoulsbo com
18570 State Hwy 305
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Call: (360) 779-5205
Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daily
Email: poulsbo@windermere com
Follow Us on Facebook
Windermere Property Management
www.windermereforrent.com
9939 Mickelberry Rd NW, Suite B, Silverdale, WA 98383
Call: (360) 516 - 6243
Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Email: westsoundpm@windermere com
Follow Us on Facebook
Windermere Sound Living
@WindermereSoundLiving
Windermere Kingston
www windermerekingston com
26569 Lindvog Rd NE
Kingston, WA 98346
Call: (360) 297 - 2661
Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daily
Email: kingston@windermere com
Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram
Windermere Silverdale
www windermeresilverdale com
9939 Mickelberry Rd NW, Suite A
Silverdale, WA 98383
Call: (360) 692 - 6102
Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daily
Email: silverdale@windermere com
Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram
Follow our Facebook page or our Instagram to learn about events and activities across Kitsap, read uplifting stories, and more
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