Why Live in West Bay Drive
West Bay Drive in Olympia is a neighborhood known for its diverse housing options, including custom-built hillside homes with bay and downtown views, modern condos, and houseboats at West Bay Marina. Many homes feature second-floor decks and large east-facing windows to maximize water views. The northern part of the neighborhood is dominated by West Bay Woods, limiting housing inventory. West Bay Park offers coastal walking paths, picnic areas, and a small beach along Budd Inlet, while West Bay Woods provides a nature trail popular with mushroom hunters. The Olympia Country & Golf Club, located about a mile north, offers an 18-hole golf course with views of Puget Sound. Boating, fishing, and paddleboarding are common activities, with many residents keeping boats at West Bay Marina or The Olympia Yacht Club. Dining options within the neighborhood are limited, with Tugboat Annie’s being a notable seafood spot. However, the vibrant downtown Historic District, just 1 to 2 miles away, features local shops, bars, restaurants, and the renowned Olympia Farmers Market. The neighborhood is well-connected via West Bay Drive, providing easy access to downtown Olympia, Harrison Avenue, and the shopping centers in West Olympia, including Capitol Mall. Public transportation is available, with buses running regularly along West Bay Drive. The highly rated Olympia School District serves the area, with Jefferson Middle School and Capital High School receiving high marks.
