Purdy (Washington) Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in Purdy (Washington) with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best time to visit, where to stay, and what to see and do in this charming town.


Introduction to Purdy (Washington)

Discover the hidden gem of Purdy, a charming town situated in Kitsap Peninsula, in Puget Sound, in Washington (state). Known for its natural beauty, friendly locals, and outdoor activities, Purdy is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Purdy (Washington)

Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Purdy:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Harbor History Museum: Learn about the rich maritime history of Puget Sound and explore a collection of maritime artifacts and photographs from the past.
  • Gig Harbor History Museum: Get an insight into the history of Gig Harbor and its surroundings, and see exhibits on the native tribes, early settlements, logging, and fishing.
  • USS Turner Joy Museum Ship: Climb aboard the destroyer ship USS Turner Joy and learn about life on a naval vessel during the Vietnam War.

Natural Attractions of Purdy (Washington): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Penrose Point State Park: Explore the park’s 165-acre forest, 2.5 miles of coastline, and scenic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.
  • Theler Wetlands: A wildlife sanctuary located on Hood Canal. The wetlands are a refuge for birds, mammals, and other wildlife, and offer a network of trails for hiking and bird watching.
  • Gig Harbor Waterfront: A picturesque waterfront in the heart of Gig Harbor, with stunning views of the harbor and Mount Rainier. The harbor has a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as various water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Purdy (Washington)

Purdy is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking paths:

  • Cushman Trail: A 6-mile stretch of paved trail that winds through the forested landscapes from Gig Harbor to the city of Belfair.
  • Penrose Point State Park Trails: A network of trails totaling 2.5 miles of stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. There is trail access at the boat launch area, picnic area, and campground.
  • McCormick Forest Park: A 122-acre park that offers miles of hiking trails through forests and wetlands. The trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Purdy (Washington): Activities and Tours

Purdy offers a range of activities and tours that make it an exciting destination. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the waters of Puget Sound and Hood Canal and get up close to the seals, otters, and other marine life that call this region home.
  • Fishing: Cast a line into the waters of Puget Sound and try your luck at catching some salmon or other species.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit one of several wineries and tasting rooms in the region, and sample some of the best wines in Washington.

Week-Long Itinerary for Purdy (Washington)

Day 1: Arrive in Purdy, check-into your hotel/guesthouse, and explore the town. Day 2: Visit Harbor History Museum and Gig Harbor History Museum, and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants. Day 3: Hike the trails at McCormick Forest Park and enjoy an afternoon picnic. Day 4: Take a tour of USS Turner Joy Museum Ship and grab lunch at the Gig Harbor Waterfront. Day 5: Visit Theler Wetlands and spend the evening dining at one of the local seafood restaurants. Day 6: Rent kayaks and explore the waters of Puget Sound. Day 7: Relax at Penrose Point State Park, take a dip in the waters of Puget Sound, and enjoy a tranquil sunset.

Food and Drink Scene of Purdy (Washington)

Purdy offers a fantastic dining scene, with plenty of local seafood and farm-fresh produce.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: Enjoy the freshest fish and chips in Puget Sound, and savor the local catch of the day.
  • Oyster Shooters: For a unique snack, try the oyster shooters, which are spicy concoctions of vodka and tabasco sauce served in a shot glass with a raw oyster.
  • Clam Chowder: A creamy and hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and other ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Local coffee shops serve the best coffee in Purdy, with a wide range of blends and roasts to choose from.
  • Wine: Visit some of the local wineries and tasting rooms to sample some of the finest wines in Washington.
  • Beer: Purdy has several breweries that offer a range of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts.

Where to Stay in Purdy (Washington): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Purdy offers various accommodations options catering to different budgets, preferences, and traveling styles. Here are some options:

  • Best Western Wesley Inn & Suites: A top-rated hotel within a short drive from Purdy, featuring spacious and well-equipped rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and proximity to local attractions.
  • Airbnb: A popular option for budget travelers, who can choose among a range of apartments, houses, and rooms in the town and its surroundings.
  • Camping and RV Parks: For those who love the outdoors, Purdy has several camping and RV parks, offering scenic views, tranquil surroundings, and access to nature trails and water activities.

What to Buy in Purdy (Washington): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Purdy with these locally made products and souvenirs:

  • Artwork: Purdy has a vibrant arts scene, and visitors can find several galleries and art shops selling paintings, sculptures, and other artwork.
  • Seafood: Puget Sound is known for its seafood, particularly oysters and clams, and visitors can buy fresh seafood from local seafood markets and stalls.
  • Local Wines: Purdy has several wineries and tasting rooms, and visitors can buy some of the best wines in Washington to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Purdy (Washington)

Purdy is known for its friendly locals, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some things visitors should know:

  • Politeness: The locals are known for being polite, warm, and welcoming, and visitors are expected to reciprocate the gesture.
  • Environmental Awareness: The locals are passionate about preserving the natural beauty of the region and advocate for eco-friendly practices such as recycling and composting.
  • Fishing Culture: Purdy is an important fishing town, and visitors can learn about the local fishing industry and traditions by visiting the local museums and seafood markets.

Best Time to Visit Purdy (Washington)

Purdy is an all-year-round destination, with different seasons offering different experiences.

  • Summer (June-August): The peak season when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with outdoor activities and events.
  • Fall (September-November): A great time for foliage lovers, as the leaves turn golden and orange, and the town offers seasonal activities such as pumpkin picking and apple cider tasting.
  • Winter (December-February): The quiet season when the town is covered in snow and offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing.
  • Spring (March-May): A beautiful season when the flowers and trees bloom, and the town offers seasonal activities such as bird watching and outdoor picnics.

Do’s and Don’ts of Purdy (Washington)

Here are some tips for visitors to make the most of their trip to Purdy:

Do:

  • Respect the locals: The locals are proud of their town and its culture, and visitors should show respect and admiration for their customs and traditions.
  • Enjoy the outdoors: Purdy offers a range of outdoor activities, so visitors should take advantage of the natural beauty and enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and other activities.
  • Try the local produce: Puget Sound is known for its seafood, agriculture, and wines, and visitors should not miss the chance to taste the local produce and cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Purdy is known for its clean and green surroundings, and visitors should not litter or harm the environment in any way.
  • Disrespect the culture: Visitors should not make offensive comments or jokes about the local culture and traditions, and should avoid any disrespectful behavior or gestures.
  • Ignore safety precautions: Visitors should follow safety instructions and guidelines when engaging in outdoor and water activities, to avoid accidents or injuries.

Safety and Health

Your safety and health are essential when traveling to Purdy.

Safety in Purdy (Washington)

  • Natural Hazards: Purdy is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, wildfires, and landslides, so visitors should be aware of the risks and follow instructions from local authorities in case of emergencies.
  • Crime Rates: Purdy is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take precautions such as locking their cars and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Purdy (Washington)

  • Medical Facilities: Purdy has several medical facilities, including clinics and hospitals, and visitors should have medical insurance and the contact information for these facilities in case of medical emergencies.
  • Environmental Hazards: Visiting outdoor areas in Purdy carries a risk of exposure to environmental hazards such as poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos, so visitors should take appropriate precautions and protect themselves from these hazards.

Getting to Purdy (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

Visiting Purdy is easy and convenient, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Purdy (Washington)

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): The closest major airport, located 31 miles from Purdy.

Bus Stations Near Purdy (Washington)

  • Kitsap Transit: Offers several bus, ferry, and fast-ferry services throughout the Kitsap Peninsula and other destinations.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Several car rental companies offer services at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and other locations, and visitors can rent a car and drive to Purdy.
  • Taxis and Rideshare: Several taxi and rideshare services offer transportation services throughout the Kitsap Peninsula and other destinations.

How to Get Around in Purdy (Washington)

Getting around in Purdy is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available.

  • Walking and Biking: Purdy is a walkable and bike-friendly town, and visitors can easily explore the town’s attractions and surroundings on foot or by bike.
  • Public Transport: Kitsap Transit offers several bus, ferry, and fast-ferry services throughout the Kitsap Peninsula and other destinations, and visitors can use these services to get around Purdy.
  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of several car rental companies in Purdy or the surrounding region and explore the town and its surroundings at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Purdy (Washington): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Purdy is a gateway to several nearby destinations and excursions, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

  • Olympic National Park: One of the most popular national parks in the country, with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and various hiking and camping opportunities.
  • Seattle: The largest city in the Pacific Northwest, known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and excellent food and drink scene.
  • Mount Rainier National Park: A popular destination for hiking and skiing, with its majestic peak, meadows, glaciers, and forests.

Conclusion

Purdy is a charming town nestled in the Kitsap Peninsula, which offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, an adventure-packed holiday, or a cultural experience, Purdy has something for everyone. So pack your bags and plan your trip to Purdy today!

Carr Inlet Carr Inlet The Purdy Sand Spit The Purdy Sand Spit beach glass found on nearby beach beach glass found on nearby beach