faybainbridge
Bainbridge Island lies just west of Downtown Seattle, and is easily accessible via the Washington State Ferries. We are known for our iconic Northwest beauty, rustic character, and quaint downtown. Unlike our neighbors to the east, we appreciate living on island time, never forgetting to stop and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. On any given sunny day, especially those rare ones during the lead-up to summer, you’ll often find locals sprawled out at the local beaches, soaking up as much vitamin D as possible. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city this summer, and come explore the best beaches on Bainbridge Island with us. There are a variety of great lodging choices for you on this beautiful island. You won’t be disappointed.
It’s not hard to find a beach on Bainbridge Island. We are, after all, and island in the middle of the Puget Sound. Not all beaches are created equally, however, and some beaches are much better than others. That’s especially true in Washington State, where you don’t necessarily find luxurious sandy beaches, unless of course you make the trek all the way out to the coast. Inland, we have to settle for fairly nice beaches, some less rocky than others, but all with one thing in common; absolutely beautiful scenery.
Take, for example, Lytle Beach on Bainbridge Island’s south end. It’s located near the trendy Lynwood Neighborhood, and is an incredibly popular spot for the locals to take their kids, or to hang out and enjoy a quick paddle or picnic for the day. From here, you’ll get up-close-and-personal views of the Washington State Ferries as they travel to Bremerton through Rich Passage, as well as inspiring views of Mt. Rainier on a sunny day. It’s worth noting that beach access to Lytle Beach is via Road end; something unique to Bainbridge Island. The establishment of road ends was the city’s way of ensuring continued public access to the island’s 
shoreline. Generally, they are narrow rights-of-way or easements which extend to a water access point, such as that found at Lytle Beach. Though these are typically well-placed, parking can definitely be limited.
Another popular beach on Bainbridge Island, which has ample parking and space for visitors, is Fay Bainbridge Park. Formerly a State Park, the moderately sandy beach at Fay Bainbridge Park is now managed by Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation. The beach here is wonderful, and offers sweeping views of the Puget Sound, parts of Seattle, and the Cascade Mountain Range. Camping is allowed at the beach, and fire pits are available on a first-come first served basis. If you’re looking for a full-sand experience, Pritchard Park is for you. It’s located on the shores of Eagle Harbor and is a great place to watch the ferries and sailboats come and go from the harbor. There are also well-developed trails through the forested area above the beach if you want to go for a walk. Pritchard Park was originally used as the site of a wood treatment plant. In recent years, though, it was developed as a Superfund site, and is now a public park. It’s also the site of the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial.
There’s so much more to Bainbridge Island than meets the eye. Come stay with us for a few days this summer, and explore the best of Bainbridge with us. There are lots of lodging properties to choose from, and certainly, one that will meet your every need. Search through our availability, and book your island getaway today.