Founded by Scandinavian and Croatian fishermen, Gig Harbor is located on a bay across the Narrows Bridge from Tacoma, Washington, and is one of several cities claiming to be the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula, Once a “drive by” city, Gig Harbor has re-created itself into a tourist destination, complete with several parks, waterfront shopping, marinas, galleries, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
The 15-room Maritime Inn is located on the main road that runs directly along the bay in Gig Harbor. It’s about five minutes off Highway 16 that continues on to Kitsap County and the Olympic Peninsula. The hotel has a weathered Cape Code feel. The front desk felt like a living room, with a kindly mom directing guests down the hall or upstairs to their rooms.
Each of the rooms is named after a historic vessels that sailed the local waters and a photo of your vessel will hang on the wall. I’m not famliar with the vesset my room was named after – the Eagle.
The room was bright and airy with a view of the water, but it was not well laid out. It felt like there was too much furniture in the room, and I couldn’t hang or store things on the racks without moving an arm chair. This meant it was difficult to hang up or retrieve clothing, stow luggage, or get something out of site. It made things in that corner of the room aseem croweded and messy. I’m tempted to suggest getting rid of the arm chair all together, but it ws nice to move it in front of the fireplace in the evening, relaxing with a glass of wine and good conversations. I don’t have a solution, but it was annoying.
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Rooms have flat screen televisions, fireplaces, jetted tubs, complimentary internet access, refrigerators, On the main floor, just past the front desk, is a snack area where a continental breakfast is offered (included in rates) as well as other snacks throughout the day. Complimentary parking is located behind the building.
Since the Maritime Inn is in the heart of the downtown waterfront area, you’ll want to enjoy the location on foot. The downtown area has the expected gift shops, galleries of local artists, and boutiques, all independently owned and no chains.
When you’re hungry or thirsty turn left out of the hotel to try NetShed No. 9 for breakfast (located in one of the old netsheds used by Croatian fishermen to store the boats and nets), or JW for a romantic dinner (the menu changes daily). Turn right out of the hotel to try the tasting room of Heritage Distillery (spirites and flavored vodka), Il Lucano (Italian food), or the Tides Tavern (great spot to watch your favorite sporting events). And if you’re visiting during the summer, there’s a farmers’ market in the park directly across from the hotel.
The Maritime Inn is located at 3212 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor, Washington. Room rates start at about $150 night. While summer is high season, you can find some value added packages that include wine, dinner, and other special amenities. If you’re looking for the best values, the Maritime Inn is a great stormy weekend getaway. There is only one handicap accessible room, so be sure to inquire at time of booking.
Disclosure: I received complimentary stay at the hotel, courtesy of the city of Gig Harbor.
