One of the best parts of traveling to the island is the absolutely gorgeous ride on the Seattle to Bainbridge ferry. There aren’t many destinations in the world where you arrive this way. You’ll depart from the downtown Seattle waterfront and glide across Puget Sound. The city skyline (Space Needle and all), Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountain Range, and even Mount Baker on a clear day are all visible from the top deck or the picture windows on the boat.
This view may begin to blend into the background for locals who brave the daily commute or head into the city regularly. But you had better believe that it’s a guarantee that if the captain announces Orcas off the bow side, all passengers (tourists and islanders) on board are all eyes. The Seattle to Bainbridge ferry is a lovely way to kick off your vacation.
However, once you arrive on the island, public transportation (or lack thereof) can be a bit of a surprise to folks visiting from busier metropolitan areas. There isn’t much of a ride-share option unless you have the inside scoop, which we’re willing to share with you! Thankfully, our boutique hotel on Bainbridge Island is within walking distance of Seattle and the Bainbridge ferry dock, and we can help you get around the island if you’ve arrived on foot. Get your lodging on the books!
Seattle to Bainbridge Ferry & More Transportation Options
The Seattle to Bainbridge ferry is the most popular way to visit the island; an astounding 350,000 people rode the ferry on Memorial Day weekend in 2024. The Agate Pass Bridge is located on the island’s north end for those who may be coming from the Olympic Penisula or driving around via Tacoma.
While driving on the ferry is the most convenient, expect a line and a bit of a wait time in the summer—but having your own car makes heading out to the wineries, Bloedel Reserve, or the Grand Forest a sinch. However, there are options for taxis, Ubers, and tour groups if you’ve come on foot or would prefer to leave your car parked at the Inn.
Here are the best transportation options for navigating Bainbridge Island:
- Navigating via personal vehicle: The island is easy to navigate. Down the middle is Highway 305, which gets you from one end to the other in about 10-15 minutes. All of the best things to do are nearby as the island is only 14 by 7 miles. We have free parking at the Eagle Harbor Inn for our guests.
- Bike Rentals: If you prefer cycling, our island is fairly bike-friendly. If you don’t have your own, head to Bike Barn Rentals for e-bike or classic cycles.
- Uber & Lyft Drivers: During the day, you can turn on your ride-share apps and see what’s available, but we can warn you that it won’t be much! Especially at night. One of the Bainbridge Island drivers we recommend is Karen; she offers rides by appointment only and only drives to locations on Bainbridge. Call 206-549-1934 to connect.
- BI Ride: A unique bus-on-demand service of Kitsap Transit will come to you if you call 1-844-424-7433
- Jack Flash Shuttle: A company designed to support the local youth and give them work opportunities, Jack Flash is a shuttle that picks up from the ferry and takes visitors down Winslow Way. The drivers are Bainbridge High School students and work for tips.
- PacWesty Van Rentals: This local company rents Volkswagen vanagons for a unique transportation option, perhaps a good idea if you’re traveling with a larger group.
- Boat Rentals: There are many boating opportunities on the island. For kayaks and paddleboards, head to Exotic Aquatics. If you’re looking for a speed boat or cruiser, Boat Setter has a listing for available rentals on the island.
- Kitsap Transit: The island has a comprehensive public bus system that coordinates nicely with the Seattle to Bainbridge ferry times. Here’s a map of the route.
- Tour Bainbridge: For a chartered and curated tour of Bainbridge Island, this local bus tour offers specialized outings, including island winery tours and groups out to Bloedel Reserve.
- Clearwater Casino Shuttle: There’s a fantastic casino just over the Agate Pass Bridge, and they offer a complimentary shuttle bus from the ferry. However, you need a player’s club card, and the bus is filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Best Bainbridge Island Hotel for Your Next Getaway
Now that you know how to get around the island, it’s time to start planning your getaway. Our boutique hotel on Bainbridge Island is the only lodging property in Winslow and within walking distance of the Seattle to Bainbridge ferry. You’ll be in the perfect location to explore all of the best things to do on Bainbridge, including the fantastic dining options, local shops, the art museum, and the stunning waterfront.
Inside the Inn, you’ll love our Northwest-inspired decor, where our attention to detail is apparent in every nook and cranny. We love to support local and regional artists. We have five spacious yet cozy hotel rooms with all the needed amenities for a restful and comfortable stay. These rooms are ideal for couples or solo travelers.
If you’re traveling with a larger group, we have two custom multi-room townhouses with full kitchens, gathering spaces, and private bedrooms. These lodging options are ideal for those heading to the island for weddings or family reunions, as well. Our Innkeepers and staff are experts on the best things to do on Bainbridge Island, so feel free to ask for advice during your stay. We can’t wait to host you; book your lodging today!
