The Agate Point and Seabold communities occupy the northern tip of the island and connect Bainbridge to the Kitsap Peninsula. The best way I can describe the area is pastoral, especially Agate Point. Both communities seem to operate at an even slower rate than the rest of Bainbridge Island. Being near the Agate Pass bridge, both are ideally located for islanders who commute to Poulsbo, Kingston and Bremerton for work/school.

Places to Visit

I wish I could list the West Sound Wildlife Shelter as a ‘place to go’ but they do not offer tours. The shelter’s sole focus is to provide care for injured, orphaned or sick wildlife. They’ve been a great resource for my family. We’ve brought several injured wild animals into the shelter. West Sound accepted both, including a brown squirrel we were able to release back in our yard. A small donation at drop off always helps.

Right next door to the West Sound Wildlife Shelter is the Bloedel Reserve. The Bloedel Reserve is “internationally-recognized for the inspirational beauty of its refined gardens, natural landscapes, and preserved forests, Bloedel also excels in environmental stewardship of its 150 acres.”  The gardens are open to the public at daily admission rates or free of charge for Bloedel members. Open from Tuesday – Sunday, the Bloedel Reserve is a great year-round place to take the family and just wander. Another great time to visit is in December when the Bloedel Reserve opens its Holiday Village.

One More Stop

I was not sure whether to classify the West Port Madison Nature Preserve as part of Agate Point or Port Madison. We visited the 13-acre WPM Nature Preserve 15 years ago and still remember the cable ladder. The cable ladder acted as both steps and a ladder and allowed visitors to reach the beach. The preserve is free to the public and if the ladder is still there, the WPM Nature Preserve is a great way to access the shoreline. If the tide is out, you might be able to check out the petroglyphs on Haleets Rock.

If you only have 10 minutes, turn off Highway 305 at Agatewood Road and tour Agate Point. It will instantly get quieter and the homes in the area are mostly hidden from the street.