Community November 15, 2022

Our North Kitsap Holiday Gift Guide

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? There are many wonderful small businesses in North Kitsap where you can get a variety of gifts for everyone on your list. We’ve broken it down by some popular categories, but this is just a start. You are sure to be wowed when you walk into some of these charming shops, and perhaps you will find a new favorite. Windermere loves to support our local communities, and we are so thankful to have so many incredible businesses.

Holiday Gifts to Unwind

The first thing that comes to mind for relaxation is a trip to the spa. A couple of great options are the Angeline Spa at Clearwater Casino in Suquamish, and Bliss Day Spa in Kingston. You’ll find the typical spa offerings at both, including massages and facials. Book a specific service, or buy a gift card for the recipient to choose from. Boost the experience and opt for a mint truffle wrap package at Angeline or a lemon honey facial at Bliss Day Spa.

For a luxurious at-home spa experience, head to Away With Words in Poulsbo and shop their edit apothecary line which includes bath bombs, sugar scrubs, and lotions. Add some delicious tea and a fluffy robe to make it a well-rounded gift basket. If you’re wanting a more unique option, check out Dogfish Moon Sanctuary in Poulsbo. They have indoor and outdoor Epsom salt floating options as well as cedar and infrared saunas.

Delicious Made-in-Kitsap Gifts

Head over to Bon Bon Candies in downtown Winslow if you’re looking for a gift for a chocolate lover. They offer luxury chocolates, seasonal treats, and fresh fudge in many flavors. Poulsbo Candy Shoppe is another haven for sweet enthusiasts with retro favorites, tons of fun stocking stuffers, caramel corn, and 24 flavors of fudge. For savory goodies, Crimson Cove Smoked Specialties in Poulsbo has delicious smoked cheeses, salmon, nuts, and other items for a gift basket. Another option is CB’s Nuts in Kingston. Their freshly roasted nuts, peanut butter, and more also makes a yummy gift.

For the Craft Beverage Lover

There’s no shortage of craft beverage producers in North Kitsap. For wine aficionados, grab a bottle of wine or a gift card to a tasting room, or even a wine club membership. State 42 Wines or Details Wine Bar in Poulsbo are fun options. You can also check out the Winery Alliance of Bainbridge Island to learn about their popular wineries. Also, Kingston’s D’Vine Wines offers a great Wine Club Membership.

For those who love craft beers, Poulsbo breweries Western Red, Rainy Daze, Valhöll, Slippery Pig, and Echoes all have an excellent selection of to-go brews and beer-related swag. In Kingston, head to Downpour Brewing or Hood Canal Brewery for more great local brews. Many of them also offer mug-club memberships. Additionally, Port Gamble’s House 11 Taproom & Bottle Shop has a fun selection of wine and beer. For cider fans, visit Bushel & Barrel in Poulsbo or the brand-new Sisters’ Cider House on Bainbridge Island.

For Kids and Fur Babies

You’ll find everything from princess wands to Legos at Toys Etc. in Poulsbo. They also have “green” toys made from recycled materials and Montessori-style toys. Another fabulous option is Calico Toy Shoppe on Bainbridge. Calico offers a variety of educational toys, art kits, and musical-themed toys. Local booksellers Liberty Bay Books and BookIt Nook offer literary escapes for kids of all ages. If you prefer to give the gift of an experience, consider a membership to the Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) on Bainbridge Island.

If you want something special for the furry friends in your life or for their owners, check out Country Pet Shoppe in Kingston. They carry all-natural pet products and offer grooming and training services. In Poulsbo, The NW Dog has all kinds of things like Fresh Field dog treats, interactive cat toys, fun car magnets, and more. On Bainbridge Island, B.I. Barkery has unique items like advent calendars for dogs, locally made collars and leashes, and Seattle Kraken and Seahawks pet puffer jackets and bandanas.

For Gardeners and Nature Lovers

For the person with a green thumb or for someone who simply loves nature, purchase a gift card or a beautiful potted plant from Valley Nursery or Olmstead’s Nursery in Poulsbo. Or, treat them to a gorgeous floral arrangement from Thistle Floral and Home in Kingston. Also, Bainbridge’s Bloedel Reserve and Kingston’s Heronswood Garden are great places to take visitors. You can purchase tickets or memberships as memorable presents.

Classic Pacific Northwest Holiday Gifts

Whether you’re sending a piece of the PNW to a faraway loved one, or want to shop for a proud local, you’ve got plenty of options. Stock up on outerwear or cozy socks for the whole family at Indigo Plum in downtown Poulsbo. And, Bainbridge’s Bay Hay and Feed has a variety of gloves, hats, and scarves. Looking for Poulsbo ornaments or fun, local treasures? Check out the Poulsbo Historical Society. Or, stop by the Port Gamble General Store & Cafe to see their assortment of Pacific Northwest gifts, themed treasure boxes, and more.

For a gift with true PNW roots, visit the Suquamish Museum store for one-of-a-kind textiles, jewelry, woven cedar accessories, and tribal art. For locally-made wooden gifts, Laeradr Millworks creates beautiful pieces.

Last but not least, if you want to get something special for a coffee lover, consider a beautiful handmade mug by Fern Street Pottery in Indianola. You could pair it with some locally roasted coffee from Poulsbo’s Grounds For Change or Bainbridge’s Pegasus Coffee.

We hope you’re now excited and ready to “shop small” this holiday season. And, if you’re wondering about Kitsap’s holiday happenings, check out our free, digital Kitsap Events Guide.

Community January 31, 2022

Fun Weekend Getaways in the Pacific Northwest

In need of a fun getaway or a relaxing retreat? We’ve rounded up some of our favorites that are located in our corner of the Pacific Northwest. From romantic places to outdoor explorations, these Washington gems are sure to help you unwind and recharge. 

Angeline Spa & Clearwater Casino Resort in Suquamish

Part of the Clearwater Casino Resort, the Angeline Spa offers traditional spa services, including facials and massages. A couple’s massage would be the perfect way to create a relaxing, romantic experience. Enjoy a meal at one of the resort’s six restaurants after your spa services. Resort amenities include a zero-entry pool with views of Agate Passage. Not only do you have the casino right there, but you also have the perfect jumping-off point to check out the rest of the Kitsap Peninsula. We may be biased, but our area does have many popular beaches, hiking and biking trails, and cute towns to enjoy. Plus, there are many hidden gems to explore.

Rates: $109+ per night | Couple’s Massage from $220

La Conner Channel Lodge in La Conner

Halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. and minutes from the popular Skagit Valley tulips, lies the charming town of La Conner. A waterfront hotel, La Conner Channel Lodge provides a relaxing atmosphere and offers special add-ons for your room like rose petals or a Pacific Northwest basket. You can easily stroll through town to peruse art galleries, eateries, boutiques, and museums. There are also local spas, hiking trails, and golf courses nearby.

Rates: $139+ per night

Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park near Port Angeles

This turn-of-the-century resort is located on the shore of Lake Crescent. Built in 1915, the lodge is full of historic charm and character. You can book a room in the lodge or one of the free-standing cabins on the resort grounds. In the warmer months, rent a kayak or paddleboard or take a dip in the lake. Great for a day trip or a weekend getaway, this retreat deserves a spot on your to-do list. 

Rates: $150+ per night | Kayak and Paddle Boards from $45

Port Ludlow Inn in Port Ludlow

This picturesque inn is tucked beside Ludlow Bay. Rooms have fireplaces and jetted tubs, and the New England-inspired look of the resort makes you feel like you’re at a faraway beach. Enjoy meals at the Fireside Restaurant with changing offerings based on what’s in season from local farms. A perfect place for activities, Port Ludlow has biking trails, an 18-hole golf course, plus plenty of water activities. It’s a wonderful home base to explore more of the Olympic Peninsula.

Rates: $189+ per night | Golf: $23 + (9 & 18 hole options)

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort near Port Angeles

Open April through October, this rustic cabin resort nestled in the evergreens offers a variety of lodging options. There are three mineral hot spring pools, a freshwater pool, and lovely walking trails throughout, including the famous Lovers Lane Loop. It takes you to beautiful Sol Duc Falls.

Rates: $240+ per night | National Park Fee Charged Separately

There are many other excellent places in our region for weekend getaways. If you live in our area and want to take a day trip this spring or summer, here are some day trip ideas. Know of another hotel or spa that you’d like to see us promote? Contact us through our Facebook page: Windermere Sound Living