🚶♀️ Option 1: Walk-On Ferry Adventure
Stay close, stroll often, and enjoy Kingston’s charming, walkable downtown
Morning:
Step off the ferry and ease into your day with a latte from Aviator Coffee & Tea, the first place you pass as you walk out of the ferry terminal. Then take a leisurely stroll up to Wander & Forage Pet Shop & Lounge. Wander & Forage is a must-visit for any dog-lover- inside their curated retail boutique you can browse high-quality toys, treats, gifts and accessories while your pup enjoys all the new smells and attention. Wander & Forage also encourages you to bring in take-out and use their cozy gathering space so even if it’s rainy, you can enjoy breakfast or lunch in a friendly space with your pup. If your pup is ready to stretch their legs, then just up the street is Kola Kole Park.
Midday:
Head toward the waterfront for lunch at The Saucy Sailor, a laid-back spot known for its approachable menu and casual vibe. Their outdoor picnic seating makes it easy to relax with your dog while taking in the salty air and marina views.
Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon exploring Downtown Kingston, where you’ll find a mix of small shops, public art, and scenic views of Puget Sound. From there, you can wander up the bluff to a peaceful walk to A Quiet Place Park—a tucked-away green space with shaded trails, perfect for a slower-paced wander and a quiet reset. Or if your dog likes water, try the trail down to Saltair Beach where you can enjoy finding shells in tidepools and letting your dog run along the water. (If they end up needing a bath afterwards, no worries- Wander & Forage doggie spa has you covered!)
Evening:
Pick up takeout from one of Kingston’s local eateries- perhaps Los Tres Compadres for some delicious Mexican- and head to Friends and Neighbors Brewing (dogs welcome!). Their Thursday night open mic nights are legendary and you may end up with new friends before you leave for the night. Staying within a mile of downtown makes everything easily walkable, and there are several charming, pet-friendly Airbnbs that offer a cozy home base for you and your pup.
🚗 Option 2: Drive-On Ferry Adventure
Go a little further and discover the Peninsula’s best parks, trails, and hidden gems
Morning:
Start your day in Kingston with a drive-through stop at The Cup & Muffin for coffee and a quick bite, then swing by Wander & Forage Pet Shop & Lounge to grab a new toy or road trip treat for your pup before heading out.
Midday:
Venture beyond downtown to explore some of the area’s most beautiful dog-friendly parks. The Hansville Greenway/Buck Lake County Park offers a mix of open space, lakeside views, and easy walking paths, while North Kitsap Heritage Park features miles of wooded trails—perfect for a longer hike where your dog can enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest.
Afternoon:
Take a scenic drive to Port Gamble, a historic waterfront town known for its preserved New England-style architecture and quiet charm. It’s an ideal place to stroll with your pup, explore the shoreline and shops, and enjoy a slower pace.
Happy Hour:
Relax with a drink and sandwich or snack at House 11 Taproom or Butcher & Baker Provisions, both offering welcoming outdoor seating where dogs are part of the experience.
Evening:
If you’re craving music, grab a table at Cellar Cat in downtown Kingston, where in spite of the name, dogs are very welcome to join in listening to some of the best jazz in the region! Then grab takeout for dinner—perhaps burgers and malts from Grub Hut—and settle back at your accommodations for the evening. With a car, you have the flexibility to stay a bit further out, whether that’s a quiet forest retreat, a waterfront rental, or a cozy spot tucked into the hills.
No matter how you arrive, Kingston offers the perfect blend of walkable charm and wide-open adventure for you and your pup. From waterfront strolls and cozy cafés to forested trails and scenic day trips, the Kitsap Peninsula is full of places to explore—one pawprint at a time. 🐾
