Sound Sound Spotlight - Gig Harbor



Sound Sound Spotlight - Gig Harbor

Historical Background

Gig Harbor, one of the Sound Sounds best kept secrets, dates back to 1840 when Captain Charles Wilkes of the U.S. Exploring Expedition named the harbor after using a gig (a small boat) to navigate the waters. Initially a fishing village, Gig Harbor evolved as European settlers arrived in the late 19th century, developing a robust economy based on fishing, boat building, and timber. Prior to these European settlements, modern day Puyallup people called Lushootseed settled at the mouth of the harbor and were there until they were relocated to a tribal reservation. 

Geography and Climate

Gig Harbor is situated on the southwestern shore of the Puget Sound, across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge from Tacoma. The town’s waterfront, dotted with boats and marinas, reflects its maritime roots. The climate is typical of the Pacific Northwest, with mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The surrounding forests and waters provide a rich natural habitat, enhancing the area's scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Gig Harbor was for long periods, a bedroom community for Tacoma workers who would span the Narrows Bridge, once called the Galloping Gertie. Today, highway 16 takes you through Gig Harbor and up the Kitsap Peninsula to areas all over Western Washington. Port Townsend, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton and the Olympic National Forest are easily accessible. 

Community and Culture

The community of Gig Harbor is known for its strong civic engagement and vibrant cultural scene. The town has a population of around 12,500 residents who take pride in preserving its historical character and natural beauty. The Gig Harbor Historical Waterfront Association works to maintain the town’s historical landmarks and promote local businesses.

Gig Harbor hosts several annual events that draw visitors from around the region. The Maritime Gig Festival, held each summer, celebrates the town's nautical heritage with a parade, boat races, and other festivities. The Gig Harbor Film Festival, another popular event, showcases independent films and brings together filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts. Recently they even hosted their second annual Gig Harbor “Pride In The Park”, celebrating the local LGBTQ community. 

Economic Development

While Gig Harbor retains its small-town feel, it has seen significant growth and development in recent years. The local economy is diverse, with sectors ranging from healthcare and education to retail and tourism. St. Anthony Hospital is a major employer, providing high-quality healthcare services to residents. The town's proximity to Tacoma and Seattle also makes it an attractive location for commuters and businesses. While Gig Harbor is large enough to have Costco and large big box retailers, it still keeps that small town feel in many areas. It’s one of the attractive qualities about it. 

Education

Education is a priority in Gig Harbor, with the Peninsula School District serving the area. The district includes several highly-rated elementary, middle, and high schools. Gig Harbor High School and Peninsula High School are known for their academic and extracurricular programs. Additionally, there are several private schools and early childhood education centers catering to diverse educational needs.

Recreation and Outdoor Activities

Gig Harbor is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s location on the Puget Sound offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Local marinas and boat rental services make it easy for residents and visitors to explore the waters. My personal favorite outfit is SUP rentals that allows you to take kayaks and paddle boards out into the harbor, where you’re protected from the strong Sound current. 

The surrounding area boasts numerous parks and trails, such as the Cushman Trail, a popular route for cyclists and pedestrians. Kopachuck State Park, with its scenic beachfront and hiking trails, is another favorite spot for nature lovers. The town also has several golf courses, including the renowned Canterwood Golf & Country Club. Gig Harbor can be as sleepy or as active as you’d like to be.

Real Estate and Living

Gig Harbor’s real estate market is characterized by a mix of historic homes, modern developments, and waterfront properties. The town’s appealing lifestyle and beautiful surroundings have driven recent demand for housing, leading to a thriving real estate market. Neighborhoods like Downtown Gig Harbor, Harbor Hill, and North Rosedale offer a variety of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets. Though it’s not a gated community town, there are gated options like Canterwood that provide residents a more exclusive experience if desired. 

Living in Gig Harbor provides residents with a high quality of life. The town's amenities include boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, many of which are located along the picturesque waterfront. The combination of natural beauty, community spirit, and modern conveniences makes Gig Harbor an attractive place to live, work, and play. 

If you're thinking about relocating to Gig Harbor, I invite you to reach out today. (206) 643-8845 by phone or text or at https://erikmolzen.bhhsnw.com 

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Location: Gig Harbor, WA, USA

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