About Gig Harbor - Key Penninsula

One of Washington State's most scenic areas. Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula are recreational paradises located almost dead center in the Puget Sound area. With a maritime and timber history there is a rich heritage and a vibrant thriving community. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the incredible scenery, galleries, upscale shops, waterfront restaurants, festivals, gorgeous gardens, recreational offerings and distinctive architecture.

The discovery of this "excellent little bay" by Captain Charles Wilkes in 1841 found a protected harbor with abundant fishing, lumber, rich soil surrounding and unsurpassed beauty. Wilkes was not the first to realize this treasure. Native Americans had long had a seasonal camp at the head of the harbor to reap the rewards of the salmon migration.

Surrounded by water Gig Harbor slumbered for many years as a self-sustained community with little access to the outside communities. But in 1940 with the opening of the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge the community passed into a new era that is still today changing and growing.

About Puget Sound

There are very few destinations like this in the entire world. A crystal clear blue ocean inlet that stretches for hundreds of miles, includes thousands of miles of shoreline, is home to a stunning array of wildlife including whales and yet juts directly into the heart of a major metropolitan area.

Puget Sound is home to the cities of Seattle, Tacoma, Everett and Olympia. As well as picturesque communities like Port Townsend, La Connor, Poulsbo, Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, Port Ludlow and more. You can travel by regular ferry service from one side to side or drive around north to south. There are several million people within a short drive of the water and business concerns call the area home.

But the magical affect of regular tides fill and empty the Sound twice daily keeping the area clean for boating, swimming and more. In the cities you can enjoy major arts organizations but you can also travel a short distance and find yourself alone among the majestic evergreen forests.

Puget Sound is a wonderful just waiting to be discovered. Come and spend some time.