The Rollingbay/Manitou Beach area of east Bainbridge Island was home for my first 15 years on Bainbridge Island. The area’s community hub, and at its heart, is Wilkes Elementary School. All three of my kids went to Wilkes and after school, it’s home to sports practices and a popular meeting place. Completely renovated/rebuilt in 2013, Wilkes is now a perfect mesh of technology and education. The school features shared learning spaces, natural lighting and an open feel typical of college campuses.

Rollingbay

The commercial hub of Rollingbay… is Rollingbay. Rollingbay (or Rolling Bay) is home to the Jiffy Mart (The Jif), Via Rosa and the all-purpose Bay Hay farm store. The Jif is a convenience store and the eventual recipient of your kids’ allowance money. I can’t estimate how many times my kids asked me to stop at the Jif on our way home. Via Rosa is a relatively recent addition to Rollingbay and their Italian Market and Kitchen. Their food is so good, they don’t need to advertise or have a website. If you make the trip to Rollingbay, stop by Via Rosa and be sure to order one of their ‘take-n-make at home’ meals.

Bay Hay could have their own page on my website! Bay Hay has everything you’d want if you are working in your yard or dressing to work in your yard. They also have a new section with local wines, beers and organic meats and produce.