Best Beaches in Gig Harbor

With temperatures into the high eightes last week and predicted for the week ahead, Gig Harbor residents and many folks in the South Puget Sound are looking for places and spaces to stay cool! One of the best things about living in Gig Harbor is the abundance of opportunities to see and play in the water. So, if you find yourself looking for a place to beat the heat, here is a list of a few of our favorite local beaches. 

Kopachuck State Park

One of the most underrated parks on the Kitsap peninsula, Kopachuck State Park offers 2 miles of beautiful shaded trails, picnic spots, shellfish harvesting opportunities (seasonally), a beautiful beach to comb, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains as well as Cutts Island. Just under 15 minutes drive from Downtown or Uptown Gig Harbor, this is a wonderful spot to jump into a natural setting and enjoy all of the wonders that make our area so special. Kid and dog friendly. 

Narrows Beach Park

The perfect place to beat the heat on a hot day, Narrow Beach Park gets shady just as the afternoon heat of the summer kicks in. With commanding views of the Narrows Bridge, Tacoma, and the water of the Narrows, it’s hard to find a more quintessentially Puget Sound place to spend the day. Pack a picnic for the beach, walk at low tides, or just take a few quiet moments to enjoy the sights of the South Puget Sound. 

Bella Bella Beach

A prime piece of local knowledge is the location of Fox Island’s Bella Bella beach. A quiet, private feeling spit, there is ample space to soak up views of Mount Rainier, the Fox Island Bridge, Hales Passage and Carr Inlet. 

Penrose Point State Park

This 237 marine park offers convenient beach access and panoramic views of Mount Rainier. With camping facilities, you have plenty of time to explore the 2.5 miles of trails with a leisurely bike ride or stroll. Enjoy swimming, shellfish harvesting (seasonally), or a cozy campfire and calm water views.

Joemma Beach Joemma Beach State Park is a gem on the southeast Key Peninsula. With 122 acres of state park, here you can find 3,000 feet of saltwater shoreline with endless opportunities for boating, fishing, crabbing, camping, and beachcombing.