If you’re looking for the perfect day trip to Bainbridge Island, you’re in for one of Washington’s easiest and most rewarding escapes. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island feels worlds away, with waterfront trails, local wineries, art galleries, cozy cafés, forests, and charming Winslow all waiting just beyond the ferry dock.
As someone who has spent years exploring Washington and writing about destinations throughout the Pacific Northwest, I’ve visited Bainbridge Island in every season—from sunny summer afternoons wandering Winslow to rainy winter ferry rides that somehow make the island feel even more magical. It’s one of the places I recommend most often to visitors because it’s incredibly easy to explore whether you walk on the ferry or bring your car.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite things to do on Bainbridge Island, where to eat and drink, how to ride the ferry, whether you need a car, where to stay if you decide to spend the night, and practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit.
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Your Epic Guide to Bainbridge Island
Spend some time simply walking the marina. Bobbing boats and resident seagulls welcome you to the island. Walk around and browse all of the shops and cafes, or rent a bike and explore the island. Visit an art gallery or two. Whatever your pleasure, even a half-day in Bainbridge Island will get the kinks out. The Bainbridge Museum of Art is FREE and is open daily (closed some holidays) and next to it is the Kids Discovery Museum.
Discover the best of Bainbridge here, with this itinerary of the perfect day on Bainbridge Island. For an in-depth look at the hiking trails, this is a great book.
Wander Winslow
There are a lot of eateries and restaurants on Bainbridge Island, WA, with shops all along the way. All of them are worth trying, and I can’t recommend any one place to eat; they are ALL good. (ahem, Bainbridge Brewing Alehouse.)
If you love fish and chips, don’t miss Proper Fish. Arguably the best fish ‘n chips in Washington State!
One of my favorite parts of every visit is simply wandering Winslow without an agenda. I’ve discovered everything from tucked-away bookstores to waterfront benches where I’ve sat watching ferries glide across Elliott Bay with a coffee in hand.
A short drive from here is Pleasant Beach Village, with more dining options and other gems to explore.
Wine Tours on Bainbridge Island
The island has seven wineries, all of which offer tastings – it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. Fletcher Bay Winery offers white, red, fruit and dessert wines – something for everyone. Eagle Harbor Wine Co. specializes in the red variety, with an intimate tasting room where you can enjoy a flight of 5 wines. Rolling Bay Winery is the logical next stop, with their Pinot Gris and Cabernet Sauvignon. And don’t forget Perennial Vintners who offer an incredible Syrah.
I love that Bainbridge’s wineries feel personal and unhurried. Conversations with staff often turn into recommendations for other hidden gems around the island. I’ve found this wine and food tour to be one of the best day tours from Seattle.
Chocolate Tasting
Powel & Jones Craft Chocolate prides themselves in artisan sweets, with their chocolate design studio. Bon Bon is an island favorite. Seattle’s Yukon Jackson Chocolates can also be found in select shops on the island. In fact, Bainbridge Island hosts events such as Wine and Chocolate on the Rock, and Wine and Cheese Pairings throughout the year. Check out their events website for all of the latest info.
It’s nearly impossible for me to leave without bringing home a few chocolates. They’ve become one of my favorite edible souvenirs from Bainbridge.
Work Off Your Indulgences
The Eagle Harbor Waterfront Trail is where you can walk or bike off that wine, cheese and/or chocolate. There is a 2-mile western loop, winding through parks, marinas, and a few historical sites. The eastern loop is 1.5 miles and leads to Hawley Cove beach. There are even kayak rentals!
The first time I walked Eagle Harbor Trail, I expected a quick stroll. Instead, I spent nearly an hour stopping to photograph boats, shorebirds, and reflections in the calm marina.
If you brought your car, head to the northern end of the island and the Bloedel Reserve. A Japanese garden along with walking trails snake around streams and ponds and is another way to explore the scenery and get some exercise. Explore the grounds and take in an event such as a concert, lecture, or art show. IslandWood is an outdoor learning center, providing environmental education for young and old alike.
Every visit to Bloedel Reserve feels different depending on the season. In autumn, the Japanese Garden is especially peaceful, while spring brings bursts of color throughout the grounds.
The Grand Forest is the daddy of natural exploration on Bainbridge Island. At 240-acres, it promises incredible forest backdrops with almost eight miles of trails. Walk among majestic second-growth cedar, maple and fir trees.
Additional Things to Do on Bainbridge
- Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial
- Fay Bainbridge Park
- Fort Ward Park
- Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (free)
- Bainbridge Island Historical Museum
- Bainbridge Island Farmers Market (seasonal)
- Bainbridge Island Troll
- Battle Point Park
- Waterfront picnic spots
- Kayak rentals
- Bike rentals
How to Get to Bainbridge Island
Take the awesome Washington State Ferry System and visit their website for the Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry schedule; it is a 35-minute voyage. Reservations are not needed, and several ferries run throughout the day and they are HUGE. Many people ask, “Should I take a car to Bainbridge Island?” That depends! If this will be a fairly quick trip for you and you only want to visit Winslow, then a car is not needed. But if you really want to explore the island, then YES! Your car can load right on the ferry.
Purchase ferry tickets for about $11 round trip for a walk-on passenger and about $21 for a passenger and vehicle (as of this writing) at Pier 52.
Ferry tips
- Walk-on passengers board fastest.
- Morning sailings are less crowded.
- Sit outside on the ferry (left side) leaving Seattle to capture great skyline photos.
I always make a point of heading outside on the ferry as Seattle slowly disappears behind me. Even after multiple crossings, that skyline view never gets old.
Where to Stay on Bainbridge Island
Luxury – The Inn at Pleasant Beach
Located on the quieter south end of Bainbridge Island, The Inn at Pleasant Beach offers boutique luxury with spacious suites, fireplaces, and views of Rich Passage. Guests can walk to restaurants, a bakery, and nearby shoreline trails while enjoying a peaceful retreat away from downtown Winslow. It’s an excellent choice for couples looking to extend a Bainbridge Island day trip into a relaxing weekend getaway. Book the Inn at Pleasant Beach
Mid-range – Eagle Harbor Inn
The Eagle Harbor Inn is one of the most convenient places to stay on Bainbridge Island, just a short walk from the ferry terminal and downtown Winslow. Comfortable suites with kitchenettes make it ideal for travelers who want to explore the island on foot without worrying about parking. Its location puts restaurants, shops, waterfront parks, and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art within easy walking distance. Book The Eagle Harbor Inn
Budget – Quality Inn & Suites Bainbridge Island
For travelers looking to save money, Quality Inn & Suites offers one of the island’s best values. Located a short drive from Winslow, it includes complimentary breakfast, free parking, and comfortable rooms, making it a practical base for families or anyone exploring both Bainbridge Island and the Kitsap Peninsula. Book Quality Inn & Suites Bainbridge
Sample one-day itinerary to Bainbridge Island
8:45 AM
Walk onto the Seattle ferry.
9:30 AM
Coffee and pastries in Winslow.
10:30 AM
Browse Winslow shops and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.
12:30 PM
Lunch downtown.
2:00 PM
Wine tasting or chocolate tasting.
3:30 PM
Walk Eagle Harbor Waterfront Trail.
5:00 PM
Bloedel Reserve (if driving).
6:30 PM
Catch the sunset ferry back to Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Day Trip to Bainbridge Island
Is Bainbridge Island worth a day trip?
Absolutely! A day trip to Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest and most rewarding getaways from Seattle. In just 35 minutes by ferry, you’ll trade city skyscrapers for waterfront trails, locally owned shops, wineries, art galleries, and scenic parks. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, great food, or simply slowing down for the day, Bainbridge Island offers something for every type of traveler.
How long should you spend on Bainbridge Island?
Most visitors can see the island’s highlights in 6 to 8 hours, making it perfect for a day trip. If you’re planning to visit Bloedel Reserve, hike one of the island’s forest trails, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and do some wine tasting or shopping, plan for a full day. If your schedule allows, spending a night lets you experience the island after the day-trippers leave and enjoy a quieter pace.
Can you visit Bainbridge Island without a car?
Yes! One of the best things about Bainbridge Island is how easy it is to explore without a vehicle. The ferry terminal is just a short walk from downtown Winslow, where you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, wine tasting rooms, and the waterfront trail. If you’d like to visit attractions farther from town, such as Bloedel Reserve or Fay Bainbridge Park, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or public bus.
Is Bainbridge Island walkable?
Downtown Winslow is very walkable and is where many of the island’s most popular attractions are located. Sidewalks, parks, restaurants, and shops are all within a few blocks of the ferry terminal, making it easy to spend the day exploring on foot. If you’re staying in Winslow, you may not need a car at all.
What is Bainbridge Island known for?
Bainbridge Island is known for its beautiful scenery, thriving arts community, wineries, waterfront parks, and charming downtown. It’s also home to the nationally recognized Bloedel Reserve, the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, and the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, which commemorates the forced incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Many visitors also come simply to enjoy one of the most scenic ferry rides in Washington.
Is one day enough to see Bainbridge Island?
Yes, one day is enough to experience many of the island’s highlights. You can browse the shops in Winslow, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, visit a museum, sample wine or chocolate, and take a scenic waterfront walk before catching the ferry back to Seattle. However, if you’d like to explore the island’s parks, beaches, and hiking trails at a slower pace, consider spending a weekend.
Where do you park for the Bainbridge Island ferry?
If you’re taking the ferry from Seattle, several paid parking garages are located within walking distance of the Seattle Ferry Terminal. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends and during the summer. If you choose to drive onto the ferry, be prepared for longer wait times during peak travel periods, as vehicle space can fill quickly.
When is the best time to visit Bainbridge Island?
Bainbridge Island is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.
- Spring (March–May): Blooming gardens, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds make this a wonderful time for walking trails and visiting Bloedel Reserve.
- Summer (June–August): Warm weather, outdoor dining, farmers markets, and long daylight hours make summer the busiest and most popular season.
- Fall (September–November): Colorful foliage, harvest events, and smaller crowds create a peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for hiking and photography.
- Winter (December–February): Cooler temperatures and occasional rain make winter quieter, but cozy cafés, museums, and dramatic ferry views offer plenty to enjoy.
What are the best things to do on Bainbridge Island?
Some of the most popular things to do on Bainbridge Island include strolling through downtown Winslow, visiting the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, exploring Bloedel Reserve, walking the Eagle Harbor Waterfront Trail, tasting local wines, browsing independent bookstores and boutiques, visiting the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, relaxing at Fay Bainbridge Park, and enjoying fresh seafood at one of the island’s waterfront restaurants. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or an entire weekend, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences.
Should I walk onto the ferry or drive?
For most visitors planning a day trip to Bainbridge Island, walking onto the ferry is the easiest and most affordable option. Downtown Winslow is just steps from the ferry terminal, so you can enjoy many of the island’s top attractions without worrying about parking or ferry vehicle lines. If you want to explore attractions outside of downtown, such as Grand Forest, Fort Ward Park, or Bloedel Reserve, bringing a car provides more flexibility.
Is Bainbridge Island family-friendly?
Yes! Bainbridge Island is a fantastic destination for families. Kids can enjoy beaches, parks, nature trails, ice cream shops, and the open decks of the ferry ride itself. Families also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, walkable downtown, and opportunities to spot seals, birds, and other wildlife along the waterfront.
What should I bring for a day trip to Bainbridge Island?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll likely spend much of the day exploring on foot. Bring layers, since weather can change quickly near the water, along with a reusable water bottle and a camera or smartphone for photos. Even on cloudy days, sunglasses and sunscreen can come in handy during the ferry ride and while exploring the island’s parks and waterfront.