Wollochet is a rural escape near Gig Harbor and Tacoma
Cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge over the deep blue Puget Sound and you’ll find yourself in the evergreen oasis of Wollochet. This wooded, residential neighborhood of around 6,500 people is perfectly situated between the small-town digs of Gig Harbor and the city of Tacoma, making it perfect for commuters who want to come home to lush, natural scenery. “It’s a retreat from the city, and it really gives you that rural feeling. That’s why we moved here,” says Realtor Linda Helm of Windermere Real Estate, a Wollochet resident whose lived in the area for 20 years. “Outdoor and water activities are the biggest draws. And the mountain and bay views are amazing.”
Route 16 crosses the Narrows Bridge for quick access to downtown Tacoma.
Many Wollochet homes offer waterside views of the Tacoma Narrows.
1/2
Houses are typically big and on the water in Wollochet
As you drive along winding, country roads, you’ll see a broad mix of homes, some of which are tucked away on large lots that extend deep into the woodlands, while others are situated in small subdivisions. Spacious contemporary homes, midcentury homes and grandiose luxury styles can all be found here, including waterfront homes perched on hillsides with sweeping views of the Tacoma Narrows. “Some communities have private beaches with places to store your kayaks and canoes,” Helm says. Many homes were designed with nature in mind, with large front and rear windows where you can take in the great outdoors. Smaller, older homes can sell for as low as $350,000 while luxury homes close to the water’s edge can cost upwards of $1 million, and in some cases, as high as $3 million.
Wollochet homes often sit on wooded lots for added privacy and charm.
Secluded Wollochet homes combine luxury living with sweeping bay views.
1/2
Beaches, a dog park and a golf course are nearby
Local parks are plentiful in this area. Make sure you stop by Narrows Park, a 34-acre, waterside recreational area where you can walk along pebbly, saltwater beaches, paddle the surf in your canoe or take in the views from a gazebo overlook. Nearby, you can let your pups roam free at Tubby’s Trail Dog Park, a fully fenced, 8-acre field that’s perfect for throwing the frisbee. It's also just a short drive to major regional parks, gardens, and hiking destinations, such as Kopachuck State Park and Point Defiance Park. Avid golfers will enjoy the rolling fairways and manicured greens at nearby Madrona Links, a public, 18-hole golf course with a restaurant, banquet hall and pro shop.
Narrows Park offers scenic beach walks along Puget Sound in Wollochet.
Narrows Park features a stationary viewfinder overlooking Puget Sound.
1/2
Gig Harbor has the closest shopping and dining spots
For all your shopping and dining needs, you can head a few miles north to shopping plazas in Gig Harbor, where you’ll find a wealth of local eateries, chain restaurants, shops and big box stores. Domo Sushi is a great spot to try some Japanese cuisine, while those in the mood for something upscale might enjoy Greenhouse Restaurant. For groceries and other goods, you’ll find everything you need at Safeway, Kohl’s, Marshalls, Fred Meyer Marketplace and Metropolitan Market, an upscale, regional grocer. Catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster or kids’ movie at Galaxy Theatres Gig Harbor, a popular local movie house with an IMAX screen.
Domo Sushi offers window-side dining with views in Wollochet.
Domo Sushi serves fresh rolls and Japanese favorites in Wollochet.
1/2
Local public schools earn B-plus ratings or higher
Students can attend highly rated schools in the Peninsula School District, including Harbor Heights Elementary School, Goodman Middle School and Gig Harbor High School, all of which hold B-plus ratings or higher from Niche, an online school review site. Gig Harbor High’s graduation rate typically tops 90%, putting it well above the state average. The school offers a range of award-winning sports and extracurricular programs, including football, baseball, cross-country running, concert band and a speech and debate team.
Harbor Heights Elementary School serves families in the Wollochet neighborhood.
Goodman Middle School serves students in the Wollochet neighborhood.
1/2
Drivers pay tolls on state Route 16
The neighborhood is traversed by state Route 16, so you’ll have an easy commute over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge into the city. The bridge has a hefty toll, however, so you might want to factor that into your travels. If you’re looking for a home with waterfront views and natural scenery near the big city, you might consider wild woodlands of Wollochet.
Written By
Daniel Berti
Photography Contributed By
Kristinah Archer
Video By
Zoe Sarris
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
James Fisher,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Meticulously updated view home in the desirable Colvos View neighborhood, offering classic Gig Harbor living with panoramic Puget Sound views. Enjoy colorful morning sunrises and golden sunlight reflecting off the cliffs of Point Defiance in the evening. With an extensive list of upgrades, this spacious 2,728 sq. ft. residence is designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living and entertaining.The
Effortless living and changing views!Welcome to the lifestyle you've earned. This one-level, two bedroom condo in the gated Narrows View Condominiums combines resort-style amenities with the ease of maintenance-free living. Private stairs lead directly to your updated two-bedroom, two-bath retreat. Updated kitchen and two 3/4 bathrooms blend modern convenience with timeless comfort.Sip morning
Welcome home to the vibrant community of Cushman Pointe! This may be the perfect floor plan! 4 bedroom design includes a bedroom on the main floor that can easily flex in to a dedicated office. The upgraded kitchen has premium finishes, with incredible storage options, & stainless steel appliances. The dining area opens to the covered patio complete with an outdoor fireplace for year-round
Set at the end of a cul-de-sac, this turn-key two-story Gig Harbor home offers Puget Sound views and designer finishes throughout.A formal dining space opens to the kitchen and steps down into the formal living room, giving the main floor an open, easy rhythm. Fireplaces warm both the living room and the family room, and a walk-in pantry serves the kitchen. Central air conditioning, forced-air
Rarely does a home come on the market on Cascade Ave. Home to sweeping unobstructed views, & custom-designed unlike anything else on the market. Home offers, Mt. Rainier, Vashon Island, Pt Defiance, Cascade Range, & Puget Sound from an elevated vantage point. Separate 33' recreational waterfront parcel, accessible by trail. Enjoy your own piece of the shoreline. Paver driveway leads to custom
West Anchor Mobile Home Park, a desirable 55+ community offering peaceful living with stunning views of the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge and beautiful Puget Sound. 2-bedroom, 2-bath home features an attached carport, storage shed, private patio, and covered front porch—perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living room, formal dining area, and a bright
Discover an exceptionally rare 2.4-acre waterfront opportunity in the sought-after Point Fosdick area of Gig Harbor, offering sweeping southwestern exposure and unforgettable sunset views across Wollochet Bay. The main three-story residence is perfectly oriented to capture the light and the water, creating a true front-row seat to some of the best sunsets on the Peninsula. Down on the sand spit
You'll be hard-pressed to find this much square footage, this level of condition, and this central Gig Harbor location at this price. Set in an absolute premium location, this home pairs the perfect blend of thoughtful design and everyday livability. A dreamy, open-concept layout anchors the main living spaces, creating an effortless flow ideal for both entertaining and daily life. Out back,
Lock-and-leave luxury at its finest! Welcome to completely reimagined Gig Harbor sanctuary surrounded by nature, with peekaboo Puget Sound views and glimpses of the water shimmering through the trees. Rebuilt from the studs with exceptional attention to detail, this turnkey residence blends contemporary sophistication with the warmth and serenity of Northwest living. Thoughtfully designed with
Welcome to West Anchor, a beautiful 55+ community in Gig Harbor overlooking the Tacoma Narrows! Tucked among towering evergreens and mature landscaping, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on a desirable corner lot with a peaceful, private feel while still conveniently located near shopping, dining, medical services, Hwy 16 and all that Gig Harbor has to offer. Inside, you’ll find a spacious kitchen
See the VIRTUAL TOUR link on this site for additional photos, video and 360 Tour of this property, inside and Out! Welcome to your new home in the prestigious, gated Discovery Point; one of Gig Harbor's most sought-after Neighborhoods. This 1997 former model home, home, transformed with 22 major upgrades, blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Located just 3 min to the Narrows Bridge & 2
First time on the market! Welcome to your private wooded sanctuary offering partial views of Wollochet Bay. It truly feels like home from the moment you arrive. Spanning approximately 1.6 acres across two separate tax parcels—including a highly desirable second lot with an installed septic system—this expansive property is wrapped in mature trees for ultimate privacy. Enjoy nature right in your
You've found the quintessential waterfront retreat where timeless beach house charm meets effortless Northwest living. Perfectly positioned on coveted Pt. Fosdick at the mouth of Wollochet Bay, this exceptional home captures the coveted southwest exposure, spectacular sunsets, and the convenience of being just five minutes from the Narrows Bridge and Highway 16. Inside, bright white vertical
Adventure and opportunity are just knocking at your door, with Seattle to the north, Tacoma across the Narrows, and Olympic National Park right in your backyard. Lovers of nature and city slickers alike will find the Cliffside Apartments in Gig Harbor to be the perfect starting point for wherever their whims take them. Tucked away in the artsy, heavily wooded and watered haven that is Gig Harbor,
Gig Harbor Villa - Renovated Modern Apartments!! You will enjoy an excellent location within convenient distance of major bus lines, the downtown Gig Harbor area, walking distance to shopping centers and a straight shot down the 16 to Tacoma or Bremerton. You'll probably spend most of your free time on the nearby Cushman Trail or hanging out on your private balcony or patio. **** Contact us today!
A forested neighborhood minutes from downtown Gig Harbor, Shore Acres offers quiet homes amidst the trees along Puget Sound. The area offers spectacular views of the Sound and Mount Rainier that you can enjoy with your morning coffee. Close to Route 16 and about 10 miles from Tacoma, Shore Acres is tucked away but convenient to shopping areas and major roadways.<br><br>Homes in Shore Acres start at around $775,000 and can reach up to $1.3 million. Once you drive onto its side streets, the waterside neighborhood feels like a hidden getaway. Reid Drive Northwest serves as the area's primary boulevard. The road is flanked on either side by thick treelines, with residential side streets rolling down toward the water or climbing up inland -- these roads-less-traveled ensconse the area's homes, many merging modern and rustic styles. You'll find beige and green facades built out with exposed wood or siding, shingled roofs, plentiful windows, and solar panels on these waterside properties. "You can find some of the most exclusive homes in Gig Harbor off of Reid Road," says Jennie Wetter, a top three broker in the Gig Harbor area and the managing broker and owner of Infinity Real Estate. "You'll see some beautiful sunrises and views of Mt. Rainier from the easterly-facing homes."<br><br>While downtown Gig Harbor is within walking distance from parts of the neighborhood, driving is the primary way of getting around in Shore Acres. Wetter says one of the big benefits of living in this area is the proximity to Route 16, a main artery for transit in the Gig Harbor area and beyond. The Cushman Trail, a hiking and biking trail, runs along Route 16. While it's primarily used for recreation, it does offer a different way to get around in Shore Acres. Residents with boats will be able to dock at Marina's in Gig Harbor, making Shore Acres a triple threat when it comes to transit. <br><br>The Cushman Trail also runs through Grandview Forest Park, a popular 8-acre wooded area in the neighborhood. The park is threaded with walking trails lined with trunks of fallen trees, and you'll find local artwork throughout the park; it's a relaxing spot to take a walk after work. <br><br>Students in the area are part of the Penninsula School District, which has an A-minus rating on Niche and is in the top five school districts in Pierce County. The area's youngest learners begin their academic journey at Harbor Heights Elementary School, a top 25 public elementary school in Pierce County, according to Niche. The school has an A-minus rating and is particularly known for its dedication to student success. Students continue at Goodman Middle School, which is in the top 15 public middle schools in Pierce County and has a B-plus rating on Niche. Learners finish their secondary academic journey at Gig Harbor High School, a top 15 public high school in Pierce County with a B-plus rating on Niche. The school has a popular performing arts department that offers two levels of drama classes, along with a theatre design and technology class.<br><br>Hungry locals head to downtown Gig Harbor. "Shore Acres is a very desirable place to live," says Wetter. "In part because you can walk to downtown Gig Harbor from some of the homes there." For a bite to eat, residents grab a table at Tides Tavern. Located where you can hear the tide rolling in, this local favorite offers tasty pub food in a relaxed environment. Take a seat at one of the high tables or a booth by the window where you can watch the water lap against the shore. Groceries are close by, too. Just head to the Olympic Towne Center, located off Route 16. Fred Meyer Marketplace is a popular local grocery chain, and there are a number of fast-casual restaurants in the center as well if you're looking for a quick bite to eat. <br><br>For a homebuyer looking to move into a desirable community off the water, Shore Ares offers a future surrounded by trees and the atmosphere of Puget Sound.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Wollochet Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
6,760
Median Age
48
Population under 18
20.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
27%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$121,539
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$153,877
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.9%
College Graduates
47.5%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
24.2%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
64.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
42''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
76°F
Annual Snowfall
4''
Area Factors
Somewhat bikeable
Bikeability®
30/ 100
Somewhat walkable
Walkability®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
