Puget Sound

Gem of the Pacific Northwest

This inlet of the Pacific Ocean is technically not a lake. Instead, it's a complex system of channels, inlets, estuaries, and islands that stretches for 100 miles. It's the third-largest estuary in the U.S. after the Chesapeake Bay and the San Francisco Bay.

Along its shoreline, which is 2,500 miles long, are countless popular destinations. For instance, weekend vacationers to the San Juan islands enjoy bird watching, whale watching, and visiting Lime Kiln State Park. Whidbey Island offers popular sightseeing attractions like tide pooling, vista hikes, and camping on the northern end to the north.

Close to Major Washington Cities

Puget Sound is located alongside four major Washington cities -- Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, and Everett. Seattle, the largest city in the state, encompasses the majority of the Puget Sound region.

Its proximity to city life provides a convenient lifestyle for lake homeowners in the area. Puget Sound is close to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and the University of Washington, a top-ranked Medical Center. It's also close to the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, known for being one of America's most picturesque campuses.

Besides these city amenities, Seattle is known for its evergreen forests (earning its name "The Emerald City"), its thriving culinary scene, nightlife, and the Space Needle landmark. You can also explore world-class attractions like the Museum of Glass and the Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.

Mountainous Backdrop

For hiking enthusiasts, Puget Sound is the perfect lake area. In nearby Tacoma, Mount Rainier stands 14,410 feet high. It is the highest volcanic mountain in the contiguous U.S. When looking out over Puget Sound, Mount Rainier is visible and is snow-capped in the winter.

Other surrounding mountains include the Cascade and Olympic mountains. From these peaks, 10,000 rivers and streams flow into Puget Sound.

Unique Marine Life

Of all earth's ecosystems, estuaries are some of the most flourishing. Puget Sound is home to several water species that aren't found in a traditional lake setting. More than 200 fish species, 100 seabird species, and 13 marine mammals call Puget Sound home. Most notably, marine mammals such as orcas and harbor seals live in the Puget Sound. Puget Sound is home to small invertebrates like sponges, sea anemones, clams, crabs, and starfish on the opposite end of species size.

Fishing is also a popular hobby at Puget Sound, and anglers often catch salmon, trout, and char. While you're out with a fishing rod, you're bound to see seabirds like grebes, bald eagles, and herons flying through the sky.

Active Lifestyle

Due to Puget Sound's size, the proximity of forests, and nearby mountains, residents of the area live an active lifestyle. Hiking, kayaking, and boating are popular activities. For boaters, Puget Sound has marinas for every type of boat. Bell Harbor Marina, Fisherman's Terminal, and Harbor Island Marina are just a few options. Overall, this waterfront destination attracts adventure-seekers who love to spend time in nature.