Vaughn (Washington) Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Vaughn (Washington), including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Vaughn (Washington)

Located in Kitsap Peninsula in Puget Sound, Vaughn is a small unincorporated community in Washington state, in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. This tiny town may be small, but it has plenty to offer tourists, including an array of outdoor activities, natural attractions, and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Vaughn (Washington)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Key Peninsula Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of Vaughn and the surrounding Key Peninsula region.
  • Mary Ethel Pew Memorial Park: A small but significant historical park in downtown Vaughn, named for the pioneer who helped preserve this land for the community.

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

  • Joemma Beach State Park: Located on the west side of Vaughn Bay, Joemma Beach offers beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains, hiking trails, a boat ramp, and camping facilities.
  • Penrose Point State Park: On the eastern side of the Vaughn Bay, Penrose Point offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and campsites surrounded by old-growth forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vaughn (Washington)

  • Gosnell Big Tree Trail: A 0.7-mile trail with stunning views of the Pacific Northwest’s natural scenery, including giant Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar trees.
  • Penrose Point Loop Trail: A 2-mile multi-use trail that weaves through the Penrose Point State Park, spanning both forest and shoreline environments.

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

  • Kayaking in Vaughn Bay: Rent a kayak and explore the bay, taking in the beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains while getting up close to local wildlife like seals, otters, and eagles.
  • Fishing Charters: Book a guided fishing tour to catch native salmon and halibut in the calm and beautiful waters around Vaughn.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vaughn (Washington)

| Day | Activities | | — | — | | 1 | Visit Key Peninsula Historical Society Museum and Mary Ethel Pew Memorial Park | | 2 | Spend time at Joemma Beach State Park | | 3 | Take a fishing charter from Vaughn Bay | | 4 | Hike Gosnell Big Tree Trail and explore the natural beauty of the area | | 5 | Go kayaking in Vaughn Bay | | 6 | Spend time at Penrose Point State Park | | 7 | Relax and explore the town at leisure |

Food and Drink Scene of Vaughn (Washington)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild Salmon: A Pacific Northwest specialty, this fresh and flavorful fish is available at many local restaurants in Vaughn.
  • Geoduck Clams: This unique and tasty clam is often served raw or in soup form, and can be found at local seafood markets and restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Puget Sound Wine: The Puget Sound region produces a variety of delicious wines, with a range of flavors and styles available at local wineries and tasting rooms.
  • Local Craft Beer: The Pacific Northwest is known for its high-quality craft beer, and Vaughn has a number of local breweries serving up fresh and tasty brews.

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

  • Vaughn Bay Lodge: This waterfront lodge offers stunning views and cozy accommodations, perfect for a romantic getaway.
  • Penrose Point State Park Campground: This state park campground offers wooded campsites and waterfront views of Vaughn Bay.

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

  • Local Artwork: The Pacific Northwest is home to many talented artists, and Vaughn has a number of art galleries and studios showcasing beautiful and unique pieces.
  • Handmade Soaps and Candles: Local artisans in Vaughn create a variety of handmade soaps and candles using natural and sustainable ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Vaughn (Washington)

Vaughn is very much a small-town community with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Locals take pride in their natural surroundings and history, often volunteering their time to protect the local ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit Vaughn (Washington)

The best time to visit Vaughn is during the summer months (June to September) when temperatures are mild and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The fall season in October and November also offers colorful foliage and peaceful surroundings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vaughn (Washington)

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles.
  • Take advantage of the variety of outdoor and water activities available in the area.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter or damage local flora and fauna.
  • Trespass on private property or ignore local signs and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vaughn (Washington)

Vaughn is a safe community, but visitors should exercise caution and follow basic safety practices, such as locking doors and windows and not leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles.

Health in Vaughn (Washington)

Healthcare facilities are available in the nearby town of Gig Harbor, about a 20-minute drive from Vaughn. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Getting to Vaughn (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vaughn (Washington)

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the closest major airport, located approximately 50 miles south of Vaughn.

Bus Stations Near Vaughn (Washington)

  • Kitsap Transit Bremerton offers regular bus service to and from Vaughn.

Other Options

  • Private car or taxi services are available for transportation to and from Vaughn.

How to Get Around in Vaughn (Washington)

Walking or biking is the easiest way to get around Vaughn, with its small size and beautiful surroundings. Rental cars and taxi services are also available for further distances.

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

  • Gig Harbor: Just a short drive from Vaughn, this charming waterfront town offers shopping, dining, and cultural opportunities.
  • Olympic National Park: About 2 hours from Vaughn, this stunning park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest.

Conclusion

With its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and friendly community, Vaughn is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Pacific Northwest. Take the time to explore the area and get a taste of the unique local culture and way of life.