Gig Harbor North in Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor North is the most recently developed area of Gig Harbor. It offers an active and convenient lifestyle while living near the heart of the historic downtown.
The Washington State Growth Management Act helped to preserve the nearly 700 acres North of downtown Gig Harbor, allowing a space that could be used to fulfill future growth. Planning for this area began in the 1980’s and started blossoming when Gig Harbor annexed it in 1998.
As a result, Gig Harbor gained a host of essential city businesses and big box stores, meaning people no longer have to cross the Narrows for basic services. What’s more, the charm of the historic downtown has been preserved. Gig Harbor North has become a major hub of the area and greatly benefited from planners creating neighborhoods with parks, connectivity, accessibility, and community.
.5 miles to freeway
6,647 homes
Want to live here?
Local real estate agent Darren Rivers created this site as a guide for people who are moving to the Gig Harbor area. If you need a local real estate agent, Darren is a clear choice. He not only is passionate about serving his clients and has intimate knowledge of Gig Harbor, but he is one of the top Re/Max realtors in the country.
Message Darren
Location
As the name implies, this area lies just North of the downtown center of Gig Harbor. Gig Harbor.
It has easy access to Highway 16 which is the Highway that crosses the Narrows Bridge over Puget Sound (This inlet stands out on a map of WA state as a “finger of water separating the Olympic Peninsula from the rest of WA state. Technically all of Gig Harbor lies on the Olympic Peninsula and the Narrows Bridge is the main access point to take one to Seattle, the international airport, and the many cities along the East side of Puget Sound.
Tacoma can be accessed by most areas in 15-25 minutes. Without traffic you can get to Seattle in about an hour, but during peak traffic times that could nearly double. Puyallup can be reached in 35-40 min. Auburn can be reached in 30 minutes and Olympia to the south is about 45 minutes. All of these commutes vary greatly depending on traffic through the Tacoma area.
Attractions
The main attraction of this district is the convienence of Gig Harbor’s main commercial hub and accessibility for commuting.
Some of the amenities here include the large modern YMCA offering recreational programs and services for all ages including a swimming pool, climbing gym, sauna, indoor running track, youth center, and more. This community based non-profit offers empowerment and an inclusive space where people of all ages can learn, grow and improve health.
Another family-oriented resource is the Gig Harbor North Discovery Village. This unique center is not just a preschool but event center, and hands-on museum for children 0-9 years.
Aside from offering easy access to highway 16, this area also is 5 minutes from downtown Gig Harbor with all the opportunities for dining and maritime activities. During the summer there are kayak rentals, paddle boarding, fishing, and other boating but you also will find great events at the waterfront park like weekly concerts, the Gig Harbor Maritime Festival and large Gig Harbor Art Festival.
The beautiful Gig Harbor Maritime Museum is not only a great place for history education but a dynamic community event space with live music and other public events.
I love that this area offers modern suburban amenities like big box stores and still gives you access to the historic vibe of this maritime village.
There are numerous parks within 10-15 minutes including the Skansie Brother’s waterfront park featuring a long floating fishing pier, Crescent Creek Park with tennis and volleyball courts and the 98 acre Sehmel Homestead Park.
Shopping
Gig Harbor North offers big box locations like Costco, Home Depot and Target that you don’t find in other parts of Gig Harbor. buzz down Peacock Hill into downtown Gig Harbor and you will find small local shops and boutiques for “retail therapy”.
About 15 minutes away is the modern Uptown Shopping Center with J Jill, Chico’s, Ann Taylor Loft, Marshall’s and other clothing shopping options.
For food shopping, Uptown also offers Safeway, Fred Meyer, Harbor Greens and the Luxury grocery, Metropolitan Market. But you don’t have to go to Uptown for grocery options. One of the anchor stores of Gig Harbor North is the “super-size” Albertson’s that meets nearly any food shopping need.
Outdoor Activities
As stated above, nearby downtown Gig Harbor offers everything from sailing and fishing to scenic walks and parks. You can rent kayaks and even take a ride on an authentic Italian Gondola!
Right in Gig Harbor North is one of the area’s most prestigious golf courses at Canterwood Golf and country club.
The many nearby parks offer tennis courts and fields for activities and sports like soccer and baseball.
Walking probably tops the list here and locals love it, expect crowds on the waterfront in good weather and Gig Harborites love their dogs so expect to run into many. Not far from downtown is the ease of access to the Cushman Trail. This very long walking park stretches nearly to the Narrows Bridge. It is friendly for walking, biking, and pets. A bonus is that most of it passes through wooded green belts and yet is very safe.
Types of Properties
Gig Harbor North offers a variety of homes. From large luxury homes on Canterwood Golf Course to condos and retirement living.
This area being a later developed district of Gig Harbor features more modern homes than many neighborhoods but there are also homes that were built in the 80s and 90s in certain areas.
In certain areas you will find homes with large private lots if that is a high priority.
This may be one of the districts with the most diverse properties available but it also may have less selection since the golf course, commercial development and freeway take up much of the land in this area.
More on Gig Harbor North
Outdoor Activities
As stated above, nearby downtown Gig Harbor offers everything from sailing and fishing to scenic walks and parks. You can rent kayaks and even take a ride on an authentic Italian Gondola!
Right in Gig Harbor North is one of the area’s most prestigious golf courses at Canterwood Golf and country club.
The many nearby parks offer tennis courts and fields for activities and sports like soccer and baseball.
Walking probably tops the list here and locals love it, expect crowds on the waterfront in good weather and Gig Harborites love their dogs so expect to run into many. Not far from downtown is the ease of access to the Cushman Trail. This very long walking park stretches nearly to the Narrows Bridge. It is friendly for walking, biking, and pets. A bonus is that most of it passes through wooded green belts and yet is very safe.
Types of Properties
Gig Harbor North offers a variety of homes. From large luxury homes on Canterwood Golf Course to condos and retirement living.
This area being a later developed district of Gig Harbor features more modern homes than many neighborhoods but there are also homes that were built in the 80s and 90s in certain areas.
In certain areas you will find homes with large private lots if that is a high priority.
This may be one of the districts with the most diverse properties available but it also may have less selection since the golf course, commercial development and freeway take up much of the land in this area.
Posts on Gig Harbor
Your Guide to Gig Harbor’s Medical Landscape
Understanding the healthcare scene in Gig Harbor can be beneficial, whether you’re a resident, a newbie, or a guest. From medical facilities to specialized services, here’s a detailed look at the healthcare options available in Gig Harbor. Medical Centers and Hospitals Location: 11567 Canterwood Blvd NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332As the primary medical center in…
View Post
Exploring the Magic of Holidays in Gig Harbor:
Gig Harbor welcomes the holiday season with open arms, setting the stage for an array of spirited events and celebrations. The city’s historic downtown transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and colorful decorations that illuminate the streets and harbor, creating an inviting atmosphere for all. Community Events and Festivities The town buzzes…
View Post
Your Guide to the Best Hotels in Gig Harbor
Hey there! There are some fantastic hotels in Gig Harbor, a stunning location in the Pacific Northwest, that will make your stay here extra special. They’re like cozy homes away from home, giving you the perfect mix of comfy vibes and stunning views. Let’s take a peek at these top hotels that make your Gig…
View Post
Unleashing the Magic of Gig Harbor:
Gig Harbor is a hidden jewel in the Pacific Northwest, offering a distinctive blend of small-town charm, maritime beauty, and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. It is nestled against the magnificent background of Puget Sound. Gig Harbor offers something to enthrall every visitor, regardless of whether they are a local looking for new experiences…
View Post
Dog-Friendly Places in Gig Harbor
We at the Harbor adore our dogs! Welcome to Gig Harbor, a charming waterfront community nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. If you’re a dog owner, you’ll be delighted to know that Gig Harbor is not just a haven for humans but also a paradise for our four-legged friends. In this blog, we’ll…
View Post
Is Gig Harbor a Good Place to Raise Kids?
Gig Harbor is a stunning place to live – there’s no doubt about that. However, if you’re looking to relocate and have a family (or plan to in the future), you’re probably asking yourself if it’s also a good place to raise kids. As both a local realtor and someone who has raised two kids…
View Post
11 Pros and Cons of Living in Gig Harbor, WA [Local Guide]
In recent years, Gig Harbor has popped on a lot of people’s radar as a great town to potentially call home. Once a hidden jewel, the beautiful town with as much beach access as it has gorgeous mountain views, has become one of the more desired small towns in America. As a 25-year resident, and…
View Post
Top 9 Moving Companies to/from Gig Harbor, WA [Local Opinion]
Gig Harbor is one of the most desirable locations to live in the country but that doesn’t make the actual moving process any more fun. As an seasoned realtor here in Gig Harbor, I can tell you most of my clients end up hiring a moving company, but which one should you choose? I’ve put…
View Post
Top 3 Spots to View Gig Harbor’s Stunning Sunsets
As a seasoned Gig Harbor realtor with an appreciation for the beauty of our surroundings, I am thrilled to share with you some insider tips on the best places in Gig Harbor to witness breathtaking sunsets. While our beloved town’s Western waterfront may be adorned with trees and private waterfront properties, fear not, as there…
View Post
The Status of the Gig Harbor Real Estate Market, Summer 2023
As the summer of 2023 unfolds, the Gig Harbor housing market continues to capture the attention of buyers, sellers, and industry experts alike. As a Gig Harbor realtor with 25 years of experience, and I’m here to provide you with a firsthand perspective on the current state of the Gig Harbor housing market as of…
View Post