For generations and those who live here in Gig Harbor, we know how truly special this place is that we all have chosen to call home. This Community is filled with kind, generous giving people who care deeply for this place and in turn the vibrancy it has to offer.
Gig Harbor is a Community brimming with talent, intellect, creativity, passion and volunteerism. Yes, it’s no secret that we are blessed to live among a strong core of healthy values. Our lifestyle couldn’t be seen more clearly in the abundance of 17+ parks you can find in and around the Harbor. From neighborhoods, special use parks, to natural areas, open spaces, trails and trailheads. There is no shortage of green space awaiting for you to explore.
Gig Harbor is often referred to as the City that claims to be the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula given its close proximity, inspiration of parks and rich historic waterfront. It also offers fine dining, is a boaters paradise and has become a popular destination among tourists.
Our delightful history began during a heavy storm in 1840 when Captain Wilkes brought the Captain’s Gig (a small boat) into the Harbor for protection. Later and with the publication of Wilkes 1841 Map of the Oregon Territory, he named the sheltered bay, now lovingly called, Gig Harbor. Then in 1867, the Fisherman Samuel Jerisich came to Gig Harbor, along with many other immigrants from Sweden, Norway and Croatia. This richness in our culture is still alive and well today and can be seen all throughout Gig Harbor among our businesses, street names, endless events, restaurants and the waterfront.
Gig Harbor was officially incorporated in July 1946 and quickly became a commercial fishing, boat building and logging dominated economy. Then after the replacement of the Narrows Bridge in 1950, Gig Harbor quickly began to develop as a suburb of neighboring Tacoma. What had once been Summer cabins has now become primary residences and many of which enjoy spectacular water frontage or impressive Puget Sound view homes.
Today, despite a long history of boat building, very little manufacturing exists in Gig Harbor. Commercial fishing is still a great thriving culture and offers significant importance to Gig Harbor. The fishing fleet still gathers for the first weekend in June (during the Maritime Gig Festival) in the center of our Bay for the annual Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony. Quite an event to experience!
As the Harbor grows, yet remains authentic to its history, you will find the most wonderful real estate options in all of South Sound. This ranges from our multiple Bays, waterfront passages and large open Puget Sound waters. Many properties have luxurious appointments that include indoor/outdoor cabana entertaining areas with gas fireplaces, extensive level waterfront acreage, estate appeal with unmatched privacy, gated winding or meandering driveways and docks to accommodate large boats or a float plane. Many of the most established waterfront estates are located on Horsehead Bay. These properties include a guest house, a paved boat launch, picturesque landscape, expansive views of the Olympic Mountains and our famous Mt. Rainier.
Our Gig Harbor homes today include many special features and capture the waterfront appeal. Most have stairs to your private beach or are no bank waterfront affording maximum use of our Puget Sound waters for your delight. They also offer boat storage, deep water docks or buoys and lovely manicured grounds. You’ll also appreciate the huge lawns plus RV parking, a large garage or shop structure and plenty of room to create your own memories.
Our beautiful low bank waterfront properties have it all from 5 Star energy efficient top quality homes, timeless elegance, interior radiant heat, stone surfaces to include gorgeous travertine, granite, slate, quartz and reclaimed timber elements.
Another waterfront great location in the Harbor is Wollochet Bay. These homes offer ideal neighborhoods, excellent schools, special charm, a boat launch, enchanting retreats and an entertainer’s dream backyard.
Surely our Harbor’s hidden treasures offer the best of beaches in the area. You will experience forever views that will capture your heart. This includes the pleasure of boating, kayaking, gathering fresh oysters, crabbing, long beach walks, watching Eagles and Herons soar, to the wildlife viewing of our harbor seals and whales. A complete and unique waterfront dream to experience!
If you are looking to buy or sell in Gig Harbor please feel free to contact me anytime – it’s my promise to deliver a great experience and exceed your expectations!