“Loving Island Life” Bainbridge Island Parks

Bainbridge Islanders love green.   For example, the City of Bainbridge Island has a history of trend-setting in sustainable practices, and we at “Loving Island Life” are proud to share that with you.

In 1989, the city prohibited retail food establishments from using non-biodegradable packaging (Styrofoam).

In 1991, the city ensured that recycling facilities were available, affordable, and convenient to all residents to encourage reduced waste.

In 1996, the city ceased using chemicals for vegetation control along roadways.

In 2003, the city ceased using pesticides.

In 2012, the city took another big step forward in reducing litter and unnecessary waste, protecting water and wildlife, and saving money by reducing the use of plastic bags in our community. The City Council approved the Single Use Carry-Out Bag Ordinance (commonly known as the “plastic bag ban”) in April.

We also have some amazing outdoor spaces, and feel a strong commitment to developing our island in a responsible way so that future generations can share in the serene beauty we all currently enjoy.  Bainbridge Island Metro Parks and Recreation District maintains and operates over 1600 acres of developed and undeveloped parkland on Bainbridge Island along with 32 miles of trails.  Not bad for an island that is only 10 miles long and 5 miles wide!  You can find a list of 36 parks and maps for 21 trails here on their website.

In addition to the Parks Department, Bainbridge Island has one city park, Waterfront Park, located in downtown Winslow, as well as one private reserve, Bloedel Reserve, located on the north end of the island.  With the arrival of warm weather, and summer fast approaching, we would like to encourage you to enjoy our great outdoors by highlighting some of our favorite parks and trails in a short series of blogs.  Let’s start with Waterfront Park, which is an easy stroll from the ferry.

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a 5.5 acre, day use only park in the heart of downtown Winslow.  It’s a very popular civic and social gathering place for island residents and visitors alike. It welcomes annual festivals, summer performances, special events, picnics, music performances, and more. It provides sunny lawn areas for play, including a play area for children, and has easy access to the water’s edge for boating and tranquil views of Eagle Harbor.

The 200-foot city dock is directly south of Waterfront Park. It is open year-round and is first come, first served. The city dock offers guest moorage for vessels for up to 70 feet. The city also offers 400 feet of offshore guest moorage in Eagle Harbor and ample transient anchorage in Eagle Harbor and around the island.  The city dock will be closed beginning July 31, 2017 for a major renovation and is scheduled to re-open March 1, 2018.

The annual Boater’s Fair is also held at Waterfront Park and is very popular with local boaters.

Bainbridge Island Annual Boater’s Fair

Sunday, July 2, 2017. 11AM-3PM

Up next, the Bloedel Reserve, a unique and treasured island gem.

For more information about Events, Recipes and things to do on Bainbridge Island, our Real Estate Market, Bainbridge Island Lifestyle, Condominiums, Luxury Waterfront Homes, Equestrian Properties, and Estates and Farms, visit www.homesforsaleonbainbridgeisland.com. Discover what “Loving Island Life” is all about!