A Visit to Port Townsend, WA.

Located on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula resides the charming town of Port Townsend. A small, tight-knit community of sailors and artists, Port Townsend has taken care to preserve its cultural history, as evident by the still-standing, antique architecture that adorns the town.

While in Port Townsend you may enjoy the dining and shopping on historic Water Street, touring the local Farmers Market, attending Shakespeare in the Park, or visiting one of Port Townend's beaches or parks, including historic Fort Warden.

My favorite destinations while in Port Townsend? Sirens pub for delicious grub and tasty beverages, watching the boats sail by at the Port Townsend pier, and historic Fort Warden State Park and the Point Wilson Lighthouse, located at Discovery Bay.

Aaron and I had the luxury of spending the past several days in this beguiling little hamlet, visiting good friends. We arrived empty-bellied and exhausted late Friday evening, sharing stories over good food and beer at Sirens pub. After resting up for the coming day, we set out on our first sailing excursion of the season, on the Kittywake, a 27 foot Cal Jensen sailboat that my husband had purchased the previous summer with two of our friends.

Though the sun was in full-fledge that day, the chilling sea breeze encouraged the eruption of goose bumps and shivers as we sailed around the bay. Excited to be on the water again, catching the wind in our sails, we anxiously began planning an upcoming trip to the San Juan Islands, which I am eagerly anticipating.

A trip to Port Townsend is never complete without the drinking of wine late into the evening over a rivalrous game of Settler of Catan. All friendships are off once the gameplay begins, as opponents deceitfully attempt to attain victory. Per usual, I was less than triumphant in my efforts, but held my ground with a solid forth (out of six) place.

The following day was spent indulging in mouth-watering breakfast foods at a favorite greasy spoon, The Courtyard Cafe. As a side note, while most of their menu items are better than good, I highly discourage ordering the Beer Cheddar soup, unless you want to choke down spoonfuls of what is reminiscent of melted Velveeta cheese (yuck!)

With full bellies and an abundant amount of sunshine, we headed for the pier to watch the boats and dip our toes in the cool water. Just past the pier you will find a sandy beach, perfect for soaking up rays.

As the coming work week was upon us and we still had an hour and a half drive ahead, we grabbed our things and said our goodbyes, with lighter hearts than usual, knowing that in just two short weeks we would be back. This time, to set sail (literally) on our voyage to the San Juan Islands.

xo.