Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route
A scenic ferry ride from Seattle to charming Bainbridge Island, offering stunning skyline views and a delightful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic ferry ride from Seattle to charming Bainbridge Island, offering stunning skyline views and a delightful escape.
"The ferry ride is fun and offers awesome views. The Island is rustic with lovely options for food and recreational activities."
🎯 Pay Once, Ride Twice
Remember, you only pay for the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge. The return trip is free!
☕ Coffee & Bites
Grab a coffee at Pegasus Coffee House or enjoy poke at Hi Life before exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seattle Skyline Views
Onboard the ferry
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound. A must-see photo opportunity!

Winslow's Charming Downtown
Bainbridge Island
Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and delicious eateries just a short walk from the ferry.

Local Culinary Delights
Bainbridge Island
Savor fresh seafood, artisanal coffee, and diverse fusion cuisine. Don't miss the BBQ oysters!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Fare Facts
Island Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pay Once, Ride Twice
Remember, you only pay for the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge. The return trip is free!
☕ Coffee & Bites
Grab a coffee at Pegasus Coffee House or enjoy poke at Hi Life before exploring.
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Winslow's downtown is easily walkable from the ferry terminal, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Skyline Snapshots
The ferry offers unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline – have your camera ready!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pay Once, Ride Twice
Remember, you only pay for the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge. The return trip is free!
☕ Coffee & Bites
Grab a coffee at Pegasus Coffee House or enjoy poke at Hi Life before exploring.
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Winslow's downtown is easily walkable from the ferry terminal, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Skyline Snapshots
The ferry offers unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline – have your camera ready!
🚗 Car vs. Foot
Driving onto the ferry costs extra ($18 for a car). Walking on is more economical and convenient for exploring Winslow.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route for its stunning Seattle skyline views and the charming, walkable atmosphere of Bainbridge Island. The ferry ride is described as scenic and enjoyable, with many appreciating the cost-effectiveness of only paying for the outbound journey. While most experiences are positive, some note that vehicle fares can be high, and during peak times, the ferry and island can get crowded.
"I highly suggest a day visit to Brainbridge Island when you're in Seattle. The ferry ride is fun and offers awesome views. The Island is rustic with lovely options for food and recreational activities."
Christopher Lucki
"Beautiful downtown and we had a really fun time. Had great food and wine. Try the bbq oysters pop up. Amazing. Take a walk down to the water. Delicious coffee at Pegasus. And a nice walk along the marina."
Scott Waite
"Fast and smooth connection to and from Seattle. Very scenic ride! The ferry terminal is well situated with bus connections and lots of local business within walking distance.
In case you don't know, you don't have to pay for the ferry to go to Seattle (you only pay when you take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge)."
Yü Wu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take the Washington State Ferries from Pier 52 in downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island. The ferry ride takes about 35 minutes and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
You only pay for the ferry when traveling from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. The fare for a standard adult passenger is around $9.75, and for a vehicle, it's approximately $18. The return trip from Bainbridge to Seattle is free for passengers and vehicles.
Ferries run frequently throughout the day, typically every hour. It's best to check the official Washington State Ferries website for the most up-to-date schedule, as it can vary by season and day of the week.
Yes, you can bring your car on the ferry. However, be aware that vehicle fares are significantly higher than passenger fares, and parking on Bainbridge Island is generally easy to find in Winslow.
Yes, the ferry terminals are generally accessible. You can find information on accessibility for specific terminals on the Washington State Ferries website.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For walk-on passengers, you can typically purchase tickets at the terminal. For vehicles, it's also possible to pay at the terminal, but arriving early is recommended, especially during peak times.
The ferries operate year-round, with departures from both Seattle and Bainbridge Island throughout the day and into the evening. Check the Washington State Ferries website for specific operating hours.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as seniors or people with disabilities. It's advisable to check the Washington State Ferries website for any applicable discount programs.
The ferry ride between Seattle and Bainbridge Island typically lasts about 35 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy the scenic views.
Public transit passes like ORCA cards are generally not accepted for ferry fares. You will need to purchase a separate ticket for the ferry ride.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bainbridge Island offers a charming downtown Winslow with shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can also visit Bloedel Reserve, explore local parks, or enjoy the waterfront.
Yes, the downtown area of Winslow is very walkable from the ferry terminal. Many shops, restaurants, and the marina are within easy walking distance.
Absolutely! Bainbridge Island has a vibrant food scene with options ranging from casual cafes and seafood spots to more upscale dining. Popular choices include Hi Life for poke and BA|SA for Asian fusion.
The ferry ride itself provides iconic shots of the Seattle skyline. On the island, the waterfront, local parks, and charming streets of Winslow offer great photo opportunities.
While bike rentals might be available, it's often easier to explore Winslow on foot. For longer distances, consider local bus services or ride-sharing options if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful lighting for capturing the Seattle skyline. Midday provides clear, bright views.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive skyline, but a versatile zoom lens is also great.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Commercial photography may require permission.
The waterfront in Winslow, the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, and the charming streets with local shops are all great for photos.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may be restricted in parks and public areas. Always check local ordinances before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Ferry Experience
Travelers often recommend enjoying the fresh sea air on the outer decks, keeping an eye out for marine life, and simply soaking in the panoramic vistas. The ferry is a cost-effective way to see the city from a different angle, and the fact that the return trip is free makes it an even more attractive option for a spontaneous adventure. It's a smooth and scenic connection that sets the tone for a relaxing day trip.
Key Takeaway: The ferry ride is an attraction in itself, offering unparalleled views and a memorable introduction to the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to capture the iconic Seattle skyline from the water.
Exploring Bainbridge Island's Charm
Bainbridge Island is also a haven for foodies. From casual cafes serving delicious coffee and pastries to restaurants offering fresh seafood and international flavors, there's something to satisfy every palate. TikTok creators rave about spots like Hi Life for their poke bowls and BA|SA for Asian fusion cuisine. For a unique culinary experience, some reviews mention trying BBQ oysters at a pop-up.
Beyond Winslow, the island offers natural beauty and cultural sites. Consider visiting the tranquil Bloedel Reserve for a serene walk through stunning gardens, or the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial for a poignant historical reflection. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day of shopping and dining or a dose of nature and history, Bainbridge Island provides a refreshing escape from the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit