Where to Live on the Salish Sea
Spanning 6,900 miles from the Pacific Ocean into the interior of the Pacific Northwest, the Salish Sea channels between the Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island before stretching northward to Vancouver and western British Columbia and southward to form the Hood Canal and Puget Sound in Seattle and Tacoma. Along the way, the sea and its thousands of bays and channels provide the ultimate in coastal living for everything from rural farmland to quaint small towns to major port cities.
Life on the Salish Sea is treasured by those who live there. From the sparkling blue waters shrouded in morning fog, driftwood-laden beaches, and distant mountain views to ferry horns and whale sightings, the landscape delivers a peaceful vibe even close to urban centers. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a retiree, or forging a career in tech. (Read more about the local lifestyle here.)
Thinking about a move to the Salish Sea? Here are a few areas to consider.
If you love the sun:
The PNW has a reputation for rain, but did you know there’s a rain shadow over much of the Olympic Peninsula that leads to far more sunny days than the rest of the region? These include:
- Port Angeles: Sandwiched between the Salish Sea and Olympic National Park, with equally easy access to Victoria, British Columbia. Read more about life in Port Angeles.
- Sequim: A haven for retirees, many properties in Sequim have beautiful views, and the quaint downtown can’t be beat. Read more about life in Sequim.
If you want to work in Seattle:
Thanks to Washington’s robust ferry system, you can have it all: small-town living and a career in the big city. Try these spots:
- Bainbridge Island: A family-friendly atmosphere and a quiet backdrop, just a 35-minute ferry-tale commute to downtown Seattle. Read more about life on Bainbridge Island.
- Kingston: The outdoors are at your doorstep in Kingston—but so is the Fast Ferry to Seattle. Read more about life in Kingston.
- Bremerton: A true Navy town, Bremerton offers an abundance of job opportunities, history, and activities, along with direct ferry access to Seattle. Read more about life in Bremerton.
If you want to stay off the beaten path:
The intricate waterways of the Salish Sea offer opportunities to beautiful view homes in more remote areas. Consider these:
- Belfair: Tucked in a cove on the southern end of the Hood Canal, Belfair offers lots of green space and easy access to outdoor hotspots. Read more about life in Belfair.
- Port Ludlow: A sleepy town on the bay, Port Ludlow offers marinas, golf, and beautiful views. Read more about life in Port Ludlow.
There are many other towns to get to know on the western side of the Salish Sea. See more of them here.