Here in Washington state it finally feels like summer, but some days you might be feeling too hot. And if you’re like me and surviving with minimal fans or portable AC units, most days you need to get out.
Next time you need to cool off, check out these great spots in and around Kitsap County:
Point No Point Beach (Hansville)
I love this beach for so many reasons. One, there is actual sand. Two, there’s plenty of space to sprawl out, beach comb, explore driftwood forts and dip your feet in the sound. Parking is free and on busy days be sure to utilize the overflow lot. Watch for seals and whales! And the historic lighthouse offers tours, as well.
Bangor Aquatics Center (Silverdale)
The Bangor Aquatics Center is located inside the Bangor Fitness Complex on base. The facility is a 25-yard pool with 10 lanes and attached diving, and offers equipment such as fins, kickboards, pull buoys, water aerobics, pool noodles, foam floats, life jackets and dive toys They maintain at least two lanes for open lap swim during all operational hours. There is also an outdoor patio open during the summer, including picnic tables, sun umbrellas, lounge chairs, kids tables, a sand table, water table and chalk wall for kids. Evenings are the busiest times.
There is also a pool located on the Bremerton base, the Bremerton Aquatics Training Center.
Harborside Fountain Park (Bremerton)
The Harborside Fountain Park sits right on the Bremerton waterfront, directly next to the ferry terminal. The 2.2 acre plaza is the site of the Naval Museum and offers tables and benches and restrooms. The spouting fountains are large and fun for littles to dip in.
McCormick Village Park (Port Orchard)
Tucked away in Port Orchard is McCormick Village Park. Don’t let the name fool you, the park is open to the public! The park features a great splash pad (open daily from 10am-7pm thru Labor Day), perfect for littles! There is also an entry plaza with ample parking, paved trail system for strollers and bikes, picnic shelters, bathrooms and two play structures. The picnic shelters are available first come, first serve, and do not require reservations.
.Gateway Park (Gig Harbor)
One of our followers recommended Gateway Park, located in Gig Harbor. The sprawling park offers 39 acres of play, with playgrounds, restrooms, an off-leash dog park, picnic areas, pavillion rentals, a trail head to 360 Trails and of course, a splash pad. The splash pad is open daily from 10am to 6pm thru Labor Day.
Ruston Spray Park (Tacoma)
One of my favorite destinations, Point Ruston sits on Tacoma’s beautiful waterfront and is a worthy of a day trip from Kitsap. Dubbed as a “waterfront resort-inspired village,” the point offers beautiful recreation with a waterfront trail, playground for children, outdoor shopping and dining, farmers market and more. During the summer months the Spray Park is active in the grand plaza (open daily 12pm to 10pm), which only adds to the fun! The nearby ferry-themed playground is a big hit, as well as Ice Cream Social around the corner, along with so many other restaurants.
Are we missing any? Comment below and tell us where you like to cool down!