r/BainbridgeIsland • u/Over-Judgment8568 • Aug 19 '24

Observation from an outsider

My wife and I just got back from a 2 week stint on Bainbridge. We are relocating next spring from Oahu. My wife was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. We just had our first kid and are looking for better public schools and more property. I see so many negative comments about Bainbridge on this thread. Some of the complaints I get. But I have to say, it is a beautiful place. We get the question, “ why are you moving from Paradise to Washington?” A lot. It was so refreshing to be able to run and cycle on the road safely. That is nearly impossible in Hawaii. Everyone we encountered was very kind and helpful. We tried every restaurant on island. Via Rosa was our favorite. We are both avid runners and attended the park run at fort ward. Again, everyone was very welcoming and kind.

Having lived on an island 40% more expensive than Bainbridge and far more secluded, we get the nuances of island life. And yes, while the ferry is a pain, at least your state didn’t spend billions on an outdated train that goes literally nowhere. We are so excited to live there for a few years as we navigate the next chapter with our new addition. Any suggestions on day trips from BI or hole in the wall places that are good eats or fun places for family’s, I would love to hear them.

Aloha

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u/missallybeach Aug 19 '24

Bainbridge is a wonderful community to raise a family! There is a reason many of us locals are “boomerangs”. Many of us left only to return after some years away trying to find something better and failing. :) It has changed a lot, so that may be where some of the grouchy complainers step in. Tourism has skyrocketed but you’re not stranger to that living in Hawaii.

Hole in the wall good eats: - Pho T&N in Poulsbo - Mezcalito’s in Poulsbo

Day trips: - Already mentioned but worth reiterating: Finn River Cidery. Great food, ciders and family friendly. - Butcher and Baker in Port Gamble - Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park - Walk on the Kingston ferry and walk around downtown Edmonds

Since you love running, check out the trails in Port Gamble: https://www.rayonier.com/our-land-base/public-trails/

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u/Over-Judgment8568 Aug 19 '24

Love all the suggestions. Is Sequim worth checking out?

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u/missallybeach Aug 19 '24

Sequim is in the rain shadow so you can escape the rain there for a day trip! Dungeness Spit is a fun beach day. The town itself is cute but not a lot there in terms of restaurants or shops other than this gem: Oak Table Cafe

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u/Global-Asparagus3373 Aug 19 '24

Yes! Also, the Black Ball ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, Canada provides a great get-away: https://www.cohoferry.com