Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route - a large ferry boat on a large body of water
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Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route

4.3
·129 reviews·Bainbridge Island, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

CrowdLow
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Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route - a large ferry boat on a large body of water

Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.3
(129 reviews)

"The ferry ride is fun and offers awesome views. The Island is rustic with lovely options for food and recreational activities."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seattle Skyline Views

Seattle Skyline Views

Onboard the ferry

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

Instagram
Winslow's Charming Downtown

Winslow's Charming Downtown

Bainbridge Island

Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and delicious eateries just a short walk from the ferry.

TikTok
Local Culinary Delights

Local Culinary Delights

Bainbridge Island

Savor fresh seafood, artisanal coffee, and diverse fusion cuisine. Don't miss the BBQ oysters!

TikTok+2
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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Fare Facts

You only pay for the ferry when traveling from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, not the return trip! This makes it a budget-friendly day trip. Plan for a 35-minute ride each way. Reddit

Island Exploration

Bainbridge Island offers a charming escape from the city. Walkable from the ferry terminal, it boasts shops, cafes, and scenic waterfronts. Consider a bus or bike for further exploration. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
City lights sparkle
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

On our Seattle trip, we had one day where we had nothing planned but we knew we wanted to take the ferry somewhere…. then came along Bainbridge Island, the perfect place to go to explore and get away from the city! #bainbridgeisland #bainbridge #seattlethingstodo #seattletiktok #seattlewashington #seattletravel #seattletrip #seattleferry
@lizziexdom
18.6K likes • 226.7K views

🎯 Pay Once, Ride Twice

Remember, you only pay for the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge. The return trip is free! Reddit

☕ Coffee & Bites

Grab a coffee at Pegasus Coffee House or enjoy poke at Hi Life before exploring. TikTok+1

Everytime I take the Bainbridge ferry now I’ll have to stop by Hi Life for fresh poke 🍣🤤 Their poke sampler plate is loaded with all the faves and easily feeds 2–3 people! • • • #bainbridgeisland #poke #Foodie #seattle #seattlefood #foodreview #goodfood #washingtonstate
@adventuring.allie
18K likes • 195.5K views
Let’s go ride the ferry! Did you know that Washington State Ferries is the largest ferry system in the United States? This is the Bainbridge-Seattle route and it has one of the best views of the Seattle skyline! There are many other routes like to Whidbey and Orcas Island. Which one is your favorite? #bookstagram #infantbookstagram #babybooks #readingtime #toddlerbook #highcontrastbooks #tod...
noshandnapbooks
46 likes • 2.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Charm

Winslow's downtown is easily walkable from the ferry terminal, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

📸 Skyline Snapshots

The ferry offers unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline – have your camera ready! Instagram

One thing about me …. I will travel near and far to try some food! Next time you need a day trip away from Seattle, take the ferry to Bainbridge Island. Lunch with @Viviana Sanchez at BA|SA. Thank me later ! #seattlefoodie #seattlefood #seattletiktok #bainbridgeisland #daytrip #fypfood #bigback #bigbackactivities #asianfusion #RestaurantReview
@alesharuth
16.4K likes • 128.7K views

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! Reddit

☕ Coffee & Bites

Grab a coffee at Pegasus Coffee House or enjoy poke at Hi Life before exploring. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Charm

Winslow's downtown is easily walkable from the ferry terminal, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

📸 Skyline Snapshots

The ferry offers unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline – have your camera ready! Instagram

🚗 Car vs. Foot

Driving onto the ferry costs extra ($18 for a car). Walking on is more economical and convenient for exploring Winslow. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(129 reviews)

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

Spectacular skyline views
Charming island town
Affordable day trip

What People Dislike

Vehicle ferry cost
Weekend crowds

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

Yes, the downtown area of Winslow is very walkable from the ferry terminal. Many shops, restaurants, and the marina are within easy walking distance. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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

The Bainbridge Island ferry trip is a fantastic adventure for families. Kids often love the excitement of being on a boat, watching the water, and spotting seagulls. TikTok Once on the island, Winslow's walkable downtown offers plenty of space for little ones to explore, with ice cream shops and parks providing fun breaks. TikTok Consider packing snacks and drinks, though there are many family-friendly eateries available. The short ferry ride duration is also ideal for shorter attention spans. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Bainbridge Island route is one of the most budget-friendly ways to experience a scenic ferry ride and explore a charming island. Since you only pay for the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge, the round trip is essentially free for passengers. Reddit Pack your own lunch and snacks to save on dining costs, or focus on free activities like walking along the waterfront and exploring Winslow's streets. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This route is a photographer's dream! The ferry offers unparalleled opportunities to capture the iconic Seattle skyline, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram On Bainbridge Island, the charming streets of Winslow, the marina, and local parks provide diverse subjects. Don't forget to capture the ferry itself against the backdrop of the water and mountains. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Ferry Experience

The Washington State Ferries Bainbridge Route is more than just transportation; it's a quintessential Seattle experience. As the largest ferry system in the United States, it offers a unique perspective of the Puget Sound. The 35-minute journey provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and the surrounding waterways. Instagram Many visitors find the ride itself to be a highlight of their trip, offering a peaceful escape from the urban bustle and a chance to capture stunning photographs. Reddit

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. Reddit It's a smooth and scenic connection that sets the tone for a relaxing day trip. TikTok

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. Instagram

Exploring Bainbridge Island's Charm

Upon arrival at the Bainbridge Island terminal, you'll find yourself in the heart of Winslow, the island's main hub. This charming downtown area is easily navigable on foot, making it perfect for a leisurely exploration. Reddit Visitors can browse through a delightful array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and bookstores, such as Eagle Harbor Books. TikTok The waterfront promenade offers lovely views and a pleasant stroll along the marina.

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 TikTok creators rave about spots like Hi Life for their poke bowls and BA|SA for Asian fusion cuisine. TikTok+1 For a unique culinary experience, some reviews mention trying BBQ oysters at a pop-up. Reddit

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. TikTok 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. TikTok

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