Located on Puget Sound, a short ferry trip from Seattle, Kingston is a gateway to Washington’s Kitsap Peninsula and Olympic National Park. Anchoring the western end of the famous Washington State Ferry, the town offers scenic ferry and boat rides with views of snow-capped mountains, lush vegetation, and animals in their natural habitat. Whale watching is big here, as is kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing. After a long day on the water or exploring the surrounding wilderness, head to the charming downtown to find bakeries, independent boutiques, seafood restaurants serving the daily catch, and plenty of places to sip local beer and wine.

Kingston can experience harsh winters, with the lowest temperatures occurring from December to February. If you want to explore the snowy trails of Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park during this time, grab your coat, and you may get lucky and witness the arrival of winter seabirds and fall migrant birds. Summer is a wonderful time to secure Kingston vacation rentals and explore the coast. The temperature is warm July through September, and pleasant for activities like boating, golfing, and hiking the trails of the nearby forests. Spring is an excellent time to visit the Heronswood Garden and enjoy the beautiful flora in full bloom. In late spring, come to observe the Japanese wood poppy, one of the late bloomers.

Birding

The Kitsap Peninsula is regularly visited by over 200 species, and around 115 species nest in the area. Point No Point Park is a bird lover’s paradise, home to everything from kingfishers to hooting owls. Kingston Marina is full of aquatic and mudflat habitats, where you can observe American and Eurasian wigeons and seagulls. Other facilities include a fishing pier, visitors' dock, and walkway viewing sites.

Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails

Kingston and North Kitsap are known for their beaches and numerous hiking and mountain bike trails. The Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails offer year-round access to water-related activities, from kayaking around bays and coves to sailing around the Kitsap Peninsula. Explore the coastlines of Hood Canal and if you rest at the shore of Norwegian Point Park, you may get to observe blue herons bathing in the sun.

Heronswood Garden

Heronswood is an enchanting botanical garden located on the north end of the Kitsap Peninsula. Walk along its beautiful stone walkway and admire a variety of more than 9,000 rare and unusual shrubs, flowers, and plant specimens from around the world. Hardy large-leaf bananas, giant pineapple lilies, and orange “Forncett Furnace” are just a few in the collection. The garden also hosts events and classes, such as gardening for birds, conifer cultivation and identification, and plant sales.