Barbara Blowers

Three primary areas for waterfront in this section, Vashon Island and Tacoma-Dash Point and the Gig Harbor-Purdy-Allyn-Fox Island neighborhods.. Vashon is a wonderful rural community, with farms and orchards and artists. Small village center, some great low bank waterfront and livable pricing. It’s almost as easy to commute to Seattle from Vashon as it is from Bainbridge, but much less expensive. The Dash Point area of Tacoma has fabulous views and there are still nice properties at reasonable prices. If you want to live a quiet, farm-type existence, Vashon is it. If you want views of the Olympics and the boat traffic around Vashon, then try Dash Point. Oh, yes, there is protected moorage in Quartermaster Harbor on Vashon and a marina or two. (To learn more about mooring a boat, see The Waterfront Reporter, Buyers Edition)

The small waterfront community of Gig Harbor and environs is very special. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge is a hassle only if you drive it during rush hours — lots of waterfront available out here at varying prices. The Long Branch Peninsula south of Purdy is quiet, rural, and not too expensive. My favorite view spots are at the tiny community of Home and in a great development called Whiskey Beach. Make sure I show you Victor and Allyn as well. Best thing is — no ferries to get there. Worst thing — commuting across Narrows Bridge. This area also has lots of small lakes for great inexpensive getaways. Bring your little rowboat or canoe and paddle away.