4 Best Hotels in The Puget Sound Islands, Washington

Steps from the shorefront of Penn Cove, this venerable historic lodge surrounded by old-growth firs was recently refreshed with more of a hip boutique hotel vibe (think Ace Hotel) while maintaining the rustic charm that's made it a favorite for decades. Accommodations have pedestal sinks but share bathrooms and are furnished with antiques and modern amenities; quarters on the north side have views of Penn Cove. More luxurious Lagoon Rooms, in a separate cedar motel, overlook a quiet, marshy expanse. A cluster of small, one-bedroom cabins have stone fireplaces and private baths, and share a hot tub. The on-site Ship of Fools restaurant and tavern are popular with locals.

Inside this stately 1890 Queen Anne Victorian on the National Register of Historic Places, a veritable museum of art, artifacts, and antiques awaits you. The proprietor's naval career carried him and his wife to all corners of the globe, where the friendly couple collected beautiful objects and fascinating stories. The innkeepers' friendliness—and the location in the heart of Coupeville—will make your stay all the more enjoyable and interesting.

Perched on a bluff above the beach, this concrete-and-wood Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired structure is just steps from the center of town and features elegant, contemporary guest rooms, all with soaking tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, balconies, and dramatic marine and mountain views. In-room highlights include open Jacuzzi tubs (all with views of Saratoga Passage) and flat-panel televisions. The Inn's restaurant (reservations essential), with its double-sided river-rock fireplace and full-view kitchen, is set above a pretty herb garden. In summer it serves sumptuous six-course dinners on Friday and Saturday at 7 (one seating only). If you have time, book an appointment at the spa, which includes a complimentary visit to the steam room.

At the edge of Langley, this cedar-shake, Nantucket-style inn features cozy decor and fireplaces in every room and is just a short walk from the town's shops and restaurants. It overlooks the waters of Saratoga Passage and the stunning North Cascades. Wraparound porches lend a neatly blended Euro–Northwest ambience. The carriage house, which has a deck as well as a bedroom with a king-size bed, a bathroom with a claw-foot tub, heated floors, full kitchen, and a sitting area with a sleep sofa, offers more privacy (at about double the cost of a regular room). Included in the price of all rooms are breakfast and a daily wine reception with hors d'oeuvres, plus DVDs.