Bainbridge Island was named The Nantucket of the Pacific Northwest by Vogue magazine in 2016 and described as having an “elegant island vibe (more nautical stripes than surfer shorts)”. It’s a residential gateway for families and retirees alike. Lined with glorious views, mom-and-pop shops, and plentiful community and cultural events, Bainbridge has a small-town feel while maintaining access to important services like health care. For those looking to spend their golden years in a vibrant and active community while surrounded by natural beauty, Bainbridge holds a number of promising opportunities and checks most of the important boxes.

Bainbridge Island communities often include beach access right from your backyard. This post will guide you through what you need to know before purchasing a waterfront home on Bainbridge Island, top neighborhoods for the best waterfront views and access, along with other helpful information including resources on how to acquire a dock and how to get mooring buoys for free. This is by no means a complete list, but something to get you started on your search.