Summer Living in the South Puget Sound
Posted by Hawkins-Poe on August 14, 2025
Summer living on the Puget Sound
Summer is HERE and there is no better place to call home than the South Puget Sound!
Whether you are new to this area or a generational native you’re bound to pick up some tips here for your summer on the Sound.
Living on the Puget Sound offers a truly unique experience for those who crave a life close to water—but not just any water! Unlike living on a typical oceanfront or expansive coastal area, the Puget Sound presents a stunning patchwork of bays, coves, inlets, and islands that together create a vibrant, ever-changing landscape.
What sets the Puget Sound apart is its diversity. Rather than looking out at a single, endless horizon of open ocean, residents here enjoy a constantly shifting panorama of scenery. One moment, you might be watching a bald eagle soar over the corner of Pt Fosdick; the next, you could be gliding past the rocky shore of Dead Man’s island (Cutt’s Island), with the majestic Olympic Mountain range as your backdrop. This range of views and terrains means that every outing feels like a new adventure—even if you’ve lived here for years.
Boating is one of the most popular and rewarding ways to explore the South Sound. With so many protected waterways, it’s easy and safe to set out on day-long adventures. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just enjoy a lazy afternoon cruise, the Sound welcomes all levels. A typical day might include anchoring in Gig Harbor, take your skiff to shore to shop and dine, or wakeboarding in the energy filled Wollochet or Horsehead Bay. Whether your vessel is large or small it’s a perfect pastime to enjoy drinks and snacks with friends, while soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Shallow Cherry cove or Glenn Cove provide perfect spots for relaxing, while larger inlets invite exploration, fishing and discovery.
My Top 5 places to dine by boat:
1. Tides Tavern
2. Boathouse 19
3. Morso
4. Woven
5. Anthony’s
Island hopping is another beloved activity here. From the popular San Juan Islands to lesser-known gems like Blake Island or Anderson Island, each destination has its own charm. Some islands feature small towns with local shops and cafes, while others offer hiking trails and quiet beaches—ideal for a picnic or sunset.
Aside from recreation, life on the Puget Sound fosters a deep appreciation for nature and community. The rhythm of the tides, the singing of seagulls, and the daily visits of seals or even sometimes orcas remind us of our connection to the ecosystem.
In short, living on the Puget Sound means embracing a lifestyle full of variety, tranquility, and natural wonder. It’s not just about living by the water—it’s about living with it, immersed in a world that’s constantly alive, constantly beautiful.