Poulsbo, Washington State, USA

 This is Part II of the Washington Travel Series. Read Part I here. 

POULSBO WAS BUILT TO BE A WRITER’S RETREAT. Not really. However, it is hard to imagine a more rustically charming coastal town that warms the moodiness of the skies with its Nordic flair and cheer. Hole-in-the-wall eateries, upscale Italian and seafood restaurants decorated with lights, and fun unique and quirky pubs dot the streets overlooking the tranquil Liberty Bay. There are alleys and murals to discover, numerous book shops, antiques, and arts and crafts galleries to explore, and the famous Sluys Bakery, where in a mere blink, will accumulate a line down the block of hungry customers.

The Scandinavian feel of “Little Norway” is ruggedly underscored with a lively pub life including many local folk groups and fish and tackle shops, as well as a small aquarium. The wharf is a gem aesthetically, where you can rent kayaks and leisurely peruse the gentle Liberty Bay. Keep wandering the waterline northwest, and you’ll discover the entrance to Liberty Bay Waterfront Park, which includes a waterfront trail that cruises up into the trees and past a beautiful historic building. The Victorian architecture in the northern hills overlooking the town complete the vision to have everything a writer could ask for to inspire the imagination.

In terms of dining along the Front Street area, Tizley’s EuroPub has a wonderful view of downtown from its balcony and boasts hearty Bavarian fare. A Some Italian Ristorante is an option on the waterfront with delicious pastas, right by JJ’s Fish House for those seeking a seafood option. It’s caught my eye but I’ve never had a chance to visit— The Brass Kaken Pub, adorned with said sea favorite cephalopod, right on the water. For a ritzy experience, check out Sogno di Vino with its classic fairy lights and open air patio. For seafaring rentals, check out Olympic Outdoor Center next to the aquarium SEA Discovery Center on the far southeast side of town.

Depending on activities, it is easy to spend half a day to a full day here in Poulsbo. We did an anniversary weekend back in the pre-COVID times when it was quite lively with festivities. Keep an eye out for events to attend, as there are many that celebrate the town’s Nordic heritage from when it was founded by immigrants in the late 1800s. The spring Viking Fest is said to be quite a good time!

Getting to Poulsbo, WA: There is a ferry route and toll road from Seattle if you head west toward the Kitsap Peninsula by way of the 305 or 160 (both approximately 1.5 – 2 hours). Alternatively, you can drive down I-5 South, take WA-16 W and then continue onto WA-3 N up the Kitsap Peninsula until you hit Liberty Bay. This is also about 1.5 hours but 80 mile drive one way. Coming back you can be prepared to pay the toll bridge for crossing Tacoma Narrows (with a Good-to-Go pass it’s $5; $6 without; $7 if you don’t stop at the booth and pay by mail). Keep an eye here for latest: https://wsdot.wa.gov/Tolling/TNBTolling/default.htm.

*The above is depicted as fiction and not fact.