Trying to decide on Washington's most beautiful town is like trying to choose a favorite child. Between stunners like Leavenworth, La Conner and Friday Harbor, just to name a few, it's impossible to name a true winner. But if you want a small city that has a little bit of everything - including an amazing waterfront - you can't go wrong with Gig Harbor.
Gig Harbor is located in Pierce County near Tacoma.
Let's face it: life seems to get busier and busier each year. And as things become more hectic, it's natural to fantasize about slowing it all down. To that end, few communities are more idyllic than Lopez Island, which has literally earned the nickname "Slow-pez" for its allegiance to sleepy island time. In fact, it may be the most peaceful town in Washington!
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Slow-pez is one of the San Juan archipelago's less popular destinations. This may be the result of its quiet atmosphere, a stunning mixture of dazzling blue water and rolling farmland. And with a population of just over 3,000, this Evergreen State gem really is tiny, boasting a quaint culture of charming quirks.
The closest thing to a town center keeps things simple by sharing the island's name. Despite its size, Lopez Island's shopping district is a surprisingly bustling hub of shops, bed and breakfasts, and dining options.
Though you'll find full-time Slow-pez residents scattered across the island, this postage stamp area is where you'll encounter most other vacationers. Still, nothing here feels off-puttingly tourist-driven. This sleepy community attracts a particular kind of traveler seeking low-key outdoor fun.
And when you visit, you can see for yourself why people love living on Lopez Island. For one, the island is quite serene and idyllic offering a slow pace of life in addition to its natural beauty. It's quaint, it's charming, and it's oh-so special — there's no other place in Washington quite like it.
A leafy tree lined lane through the woodland forest on the island of Lopez, San Juan Islands, Pacific Northwest, USA
When suggesting where visitors should begin their day, I always direct them to Isabel's. Not to be dramatic, but Isabel's Espresso is the island's lifeline and the best spot to catch locals as they pull through on their daily errands. Espresso junkies like me will be pleased to hear the coffee is sublime, served in a cozy interior that's the perfect foxhole for a rainy day
The San Juans are renowned for their achingly beautiful water vistas. Lopez Island has these in spades. But part of what sets it apart from its sister islands is its thriving agricultural community. Spend a day biking along idyllic country roads, drinking in the pastoral views. Farm stands dot the island; some even allow visitors to tour their lush pastures.
That doesn't mean an afternoon along the shoreline isn't a must if you happen to visit. Even in the winter, Lopez's coast possesses unparalleled beauty.
For friends of Fido, you'll be happy to hear that Slow-pez is also incredibly dog-friendly. And make no mistake, your furry companion will enjoy the island's beaches and hiking trails as much as you will.
In my opinion, Lopez Island is the most peaceful town in Washington. This enchanting community holds a special place in my heart, as I'm sure it does for all who visit, and I can't say there isn't a part of me that will always fantasize about never leaving. And, honestly, its one of the best islands to live on in Washington! So, I suggest you come see for yourself why it's such a special place.
Explore this Evergreen State gem today, and before you arrive, book a stay at the Luxury Seaside Getaway. This cottage is absolutely charming and perfect for two!
If you know Washington, you know our state is brimming with adorable small towns. In this pantheon, some names are frequently mentioned, with communities like Coupeville, Leavenworth, and more receiving frequent — and well-deserved — attention. But if you're planning a trip to the prettiest small towns near Seattle, I recommend visiting Bow-Edison in Skagit County. With a killer food scene and gorgeous scenery, it's on its way to becoming Western Washington's next big destination.
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Bow and Edison are technically both unincorporated communities. With populations barely pushing 200 residents, they're frequently combined, referred to as Bow-Edison. Located off of Chuckanut Drive with stunning views of Samish and Padilla Bays, this button-sized town is a fantastic pull-off spot for road trips.
Despite its blink-and-you'll-miss-it size, Bow-Edison is jam-packed with diverting shops and return-worthy eateries. This thrum of creative energy hasn't gone unnoticed. Publications like Food & Wine have earmarked the tiny town as an up-and-coming Pacific Northwest destination.
Reaping the rewards that come from being surrounded by farmland, according to Food & Wine writers, Bow-Edison is reminiscent of what Northern California used to be. Among the businesses that line Cains Court, the "major" road in town, are standouts like Tweets, a cafe run by Chef David Blakesley that serves inspired hyper-local fare.
But stroll just a little down the road and you'll see Breadfarm, or rather, you'll smell it. This artisanal bakery emits powerfully tempting and totally delicious smells. Pastries, cookies, and bread are doled out to throngs of eager eaters. Just one bite and you'll understand why they're willing to wait for a baked good.
Does the coastal air inspire an appetite for seafood? Taylor Shellfish Farms is just up the way. To be clear, these are three acclaimed restaurants located ten minutes from one another in a community of around 200. It's no wonder Bow-Edison boasts an ongoing food walk.
The surrounding scenery is just as gorgeous. Even if you miss Skagit Valley's colorful flower festivals, you'll find vast vistas of farmland and rugged coast.
Visit a farmstand to get a firsthand look at the unparalleled ingredients fueling Bow-Edison's local culinary scene. My favorite is the small shop operated by Blanchard Mountain Farm, which also hosts occasional events.
Are you on the hunt for the prettiest small towns near Seattle? While there's no shortage of idyllic communities in Washington, Bow-Edison is an up-and-comer that boasts jaw-dropping beauty and crave-worthy food without the crowds. For an off-the-beaten-path getaway, I can't recommend this hidden gem enough.
