mowrites

My husband and I are traveling to the Pacific NW for the first time Sept 1-8 (Portland, 3 nights; ?, two nights; Seattle, 2 nights). We start in Portland and end in Seattle. We will probably stay in Portland for the first three nights, incorporating a couple of day trips within that time. Then we want to head to a smaller town. We've heard wonderful things about Port Townsend and Whidbey Island and would like to hear anyone's thoughts on which one would be good for a two-night stay or if someone has a better idea. We like to stay places with interesting shopping, great food, history, and the opportunity for light hiking/biking, kayaking, and/or to see any kind of wildlife (we're city folk who don't often get a chance to see animals other than squirrels and pigeons). Thanks for your help!

NWWanderer

I much prefer the Olympic Peninsula to Whidbey for hiking and scenery--you've got Olympic National Park at your doorstep although it's easier to get there if you stay further west than Pt Townsend (but PT is definitely the most interesting town out that way). I would at least use your layover day (if it's nice) to drive up to Hurricane Ridge and do a hike up there.

Fodorite018

I agree with NWWanderer. One place that we have stayed in Port Townsend that we really like is the Morgan Hill
Design cottage. It is a short walk down to the beach and a nice park, which we enjoy.

mowrites

The Morgan Hill Design Center looks great. Do either of you know anything about the James Hotel in PT? I've heard wonderful things about it as well.

Fodorite018

Sorry, I don't know anything.

Just in case you haven't checked the Morgan Hill website, they have a cottage as well as a loft and a beach house. We have always stayed at the cottage. The owner is fantastic. She stocks the kitchen with breakfast items, so you can have it at your leisure. She also has loads of information on the area, so if you arrive and still are not sure where you want to have dinner, you will not feel abandoned. We stumbled upon this place years ago when we lived in the area and we still return.

NWWanderer

Do you mean the James House B&B? If so, yes I've stayed there. The rooms vary a lot so definitely look at what rooms are available in making your choice. Their cottage overlooking the town is the nicest option if it's available.

mowrites

Yes, that's what I meant. I was actually looking at one of the guest cottages. James House itself has gotten all 5's out of 5, which is rare, on Tripadvisor's visitor reviews.

Fodorite018

mowrites--I have tried to do a review on TripAdvisor several times for Morgan Hill but they won't do it as it they say it is a rental, vs a B&B and such. Anyway, just wanted to share since you mentioned looking there for reviews.

mowrites

I was wondering why I couldn't find any reviews for it. I think we're going to stay in the Morgan Hill View Loft.

Schnitzel

We had a wonderful stay at the Sea Loft in Port Townsend:
http://www.olympus.net/personal/mortenson/

TrvlMaven

If you do go to Whidbey's Island--be sure to pick up some "Whidbey's" liquour--it's a berry liquour that is delicious--especially over ice cream!

Fodorite018

Another vote for that Whidbey's liqueur! It isn't quite the same as it used to be, but still really good. I add it to marionberry pies as well.

Dayle

Hi mowrites,

I just stayed at Holly Hill House in Port Townsend and would certainly recommend it. Great breakfasts and owners, nice rooms, lovely gardens.

Loved Port Townsend!