Life in South Kitsap: Small Town Living With Easy Access to Urban Lifestyles
South Kitsap is home to Port Orchard, the county seat of Kitsap County, as well as several more rural residential communities. Located a short drive from both Tacoma and Bremerton a Fast Ferry ride from Seattle, South Kitsap offers a slower lifestyle without feeling too far afield from jobs, culture, and entertainment.
Nearby communities include Manchester, a small waterfront town that juts out into Puget Sound for sweeping views of Blake Island, Seattle, Mount Rainier, and the Cascades beyond; Bethel, home to about 8,000 residents and featuring a small downtown and amenities; Fernwood, with ample forested land and a golf course; and Olalla, a small community nestled along Colvos Passage that is rich in history.
Custom Homes in Port Orchard
From permit requirements or preserving views on your lot, Estes Builders can help you navigate building requirements and create a design most suited for your property.
Here are just a few of the highlights of owning a home in Port Orchard:
Activities for Everyone
- Port Orchard resident and author Debbie Macomber modeled her Cedar Cove locale after her town’s waterfront, and the downtown area includes a waterfront park along with boutiques, antique shops, breweries, bakeries, and eateries.
- Port Orchard’s downtown is home to the county’s longest-running Farmers Market, held every Saturday from April through October, and head out during summer for concerts, parades, and festivals.
- The Olalla Americana Music Festival in August celebrates traditional American music with roots in country, rock, folk, blues, bluegrass, and reggae.
Great Outdoors
Abutting the water and close to the mountains, South Kitsap has plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family.
- Grab your kayak and hop on the beloved Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail, which covers 350 miles of shoreline. Find access points in Port Orchard, Manchester, and Southworth.
- Hit the beach for a picnic or launch your boat at Port of Manchester, and explore woods and shoreline at Manchester State Park.
- For a nearby hike, head over to Green Mountain for views of the Kitsap Peninsula and beyond.
- With easy access to the Olympics to the north and west and to the Cascades to the southeast, endless hiking trails of all skill levels are just a short drive away.
Ready to experience South Kitsap living for yourself? Connect with us for a free consultation.
Banner Photo: Copyright Jonathan Miske