Explore Allyn, Washington
Located on Puget Sound’s Case Inlet, Allyn is surrounded by spectacular water views. Check out the Bear in the Box chainsaw carving shop, kayak, or explore the beaches, and stop by one of the many restaurants for a meal.
The third weekend of July, Allyn celebrates the annual Allyn Days celebration on the Allyn waterfront. Famous for its Mud Run (when the tides right!), a salmon bake, vendors, live music and an amateur Oyster Shucking Contest. Just south on the Grapeview Loop Road, The Grapeview Water and Art Festival, at the Fair Harbor Marina is hosted the last Saturday in July.
History & Heritage
From Steamboats to Shellfish – The Story of Allyn
Settled in 1853 along the quiet shores of Case Inlet, Allyn began as a logging and shipping hub connected to the Puget Sound by the Mosquito Fleet of steamboats. The town was officially platted in 1889 and named after Judge Frank Allyn of Tacoma. Sawmills lined Sherwood Creek, shipping lumber and goods across the Sound, and by the early 1900s, Allyn was bustling with mills, hotels, and a busy wharf.
As roads and highways replaced water routes, the town’s focus shifted from timber to recreation. The creation of the Port of Allyn in 1921 and later the Lakeland Village development helped shape today’s community — a friendly waterfront town known for its small-town charm, easy access to beaches, and welcoming atmosphere.
Learn more at the North Bay Historical Society Allyn Washington website
Events
Allyn Days
Every summer, the Allyn Community Association brings the waterfront to life with the annual Allyn Days Festival on beautiful Case Inlet. This classic Hood Canal celebration blends small-town charm with big-time fun — a full weekend of local seafood, live music, and community spirit.
Visitors can enjoy the famous salmon bake on Saturday, cheer on contestants in the oyster-shucking competition Sunday, explore a lively vendor marketplace, and relax in the beer garden. With kids’ activities, dancing, and entertainment all weekend, it’s a family-friendly event (pets welcome) that highlights what makes Allyn such a welcoming waterfront town.
Grapeview Water & Art Festival
Located just about 5 miles (about 10 minutes drive) south of Allyn, Washington in the neighbouring community of Grapeview, Washington, you’ll find the waterfront Fair Harbor Marina. To get there, drive south on State Route 3 from Allyn, turn onto Grapeview Loop Road, and follow signs toward the marina.
Each summer, Fair Harbor Marina hosts the annual Grapeview Water & Art Festival — a full day of art, seafood and family fun. Think freshly steamed clams, kids building and launching creative wooden boats, live music, 50+ Northwest artists showcasing everything from pottery and glass to wood and photography, plus a beer garden and plenty of activities for all ages.
5 Things To Do In Allyn
Allyn Waterfront Park (aka “The Dock at Allyn”)
On the scenic western shore of Case Inlet, Allyn Waterfront Park offers a mix of waterfront charm and relaxed recreation. The 200-foot pier and boat launch sit next to open lawns, picnic tables, a playground, and gazebo rentals. Great for families, walkers, and anyone looking for a water-view stop with easy access to restaurants and cafés just steps away.
Bear in a Box – Chainsaw Carving Studio & Gallery
This unique studio and gallery in downtown Allyn features more than 500 carved-wood sculptures—bears, eagles, whimsical animals—crafted by local chainsaw artists. Visitors can browse finished pieces, custom-order art furniture, or even take a carving class. A fun stop for art lovers or people looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir. facebook page
Allyn Historic Church
Built in 1909 and still a beloved landmark, the Allyn Historic Church is one of the oldest structures in town. Whether you’re pausing for architecture, attending a community event, or just walking by the charming façade, it’s a quiet heritage stop in Allyn’s waterfront neighborhood.
Big Bubba's Burgers
Since 1966, this roadside burger joint has served up classic “burgers • fries • shakes” in Allyn.
A perfect break for families, featuring pet-friendly outdoor seating and a taste of local flavor with a no-frills, authentic diner vibe. website
LakeLand Village Golf Course
For golf fans, LakeLand Village offers 27 holes of scenic play overlooking the woods and water near Allyn. Whether you’ve brought clubs or just want to watch the sunset from the clubhouse terrace, it’s a relaxed golf-day option. Book a tee time.
Places To Eat In Allyn
The Boat House on North Bay
Set right on Case Inlet, The Boat House on North Bay pairs fresh Northwest seafood with panoramic waterfront views. It’s a relaxed spot for lunch or dinner where guests can enjoy oysters, chowder, and locally inspired entrées while watching the tides roll in. (360) 275-6060 theboathouseonnorthbay.com
Big Bubba’s Burgers
A Mason County landmark since 1966, Big Bubba’s Burgers is known for big portions, hand-spun shakes, and an all-American roadside vibe. Grab a seat outdoors, enjoy the casual energy, and taste one of the best burgers on Highway 3. (360) 275-6000 bigbubbasburgers.net
The Bistro at Lakeland Village
Tucked inside the Lakeland Village Golf Course community, The Bistro serves Northwest-style comfort food with views of the fairways and evergreens. It’s a favorite for golfers and locals alike, offering fresh seafood, steaks, and casual weekend specials. (360) 275-6100 lakelandliving.com/the-bistro.html
2 Margaritas Family Restaurant
Colorful décor, friendly service, and classic Mexican dishes make 2 Margaritas a lively dining option in the heart of Allyn. Enjoy fajitas, tacos, and margaritas with family or friends—just steps from the waterfront. (360) 275-4010 Map Listing
Cup of Jo Café
A cozy local coffee stop featuring espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods made fresh each morning. Perfect for a grab-and-go latte or a quiet start to your Hood Canal day. cupojocafe.square.site
The Bistro at Lake Land Village Clubhouse Bar
Located adjacent to the main Bistro dining room, this casual bar offers appetizers, local beers, and cocktails with a welcoming neighborhood feel. A great spot for golfers winding down after a round or visitors looking for a laid-back evening. 360) 275-6100 lakelandliving.com
Boat House Bar (inside The Boat House on North Bay)
Part of the main restaurant, this small bar offers local brews, cocktails, and small plates with a waterfront backdrop. A nice evening hangout with live music on select nights. (360) 275-6060 theboathouseonnorthbay.com
Lodging & Living
Why People Love Staying in Allyn
Nestled along Case Inlet, Allyn, Washington captures everything people love about Hood Canal living — peaceful waterfront views, walkable parks, and friendly small-town charm. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or exploring the idea of calling it home, Allyn offers a rare blend of quiet coastal life and easy access to nearby Belfair, Shelton, and Gig Harbor.
From morning coffee by the bay to sunsets over the pier, life here moves at a calmer pace. Locals greet you by name, kayaks glide past the dock, and the air carries a mix of saltwater and cedar. For many, a visit turns into something more, a community to return to again and again.
Where to Stay
Visitors can choose from waterfront vacation homes, cozy cottages, and golf-course getaways — most just minutes from town.
Here are a few good places to start your search:
Airbnb – Allyn, WA → Explore current listings
From modern bayside cabins to family-friendly homes near Lakeland Village, Airbnb has several options with water views or private docks.VRBO – Allyn, WA → View rentals
Ideal for longer stays, many VRBO properties sit along Case Inlet or near golf greens, offering space for groups and extended families.Hotels & Inns nearby →
There are no traditional hotels directly in Allyn, but nearby Belfair (10 min south) and Shelton (20 min west) have lodging options like Alderbrook Resort, Belfair Motel, Shelton Inn, and local bed-and-breakfasts.
Living in Allyn
If you’ve fallen for the area, Allyn has several residential communities that make it easy to picture life here full-time:
Lakeland Village — a golf-course neighborhood with lakeside homes, trails, and community amenities.
Downtown Waterfront District — small homes and cottages steps from the marina and park.
North Bay & Grapeview Loop — quiet rural properties with water access and forest views.
Explore current listings on:
Nearby Communities
Belfair – 10 minutes south
Restaurants, shops, and trails at Belfair State Park. Perfect for beach walks or camping right on the water.
Grapeview – 10 minutes west
Home of Fair Harbor Marina and the Water & Art Festival. Known for shellfish beaches and quiet marinas tucked along Case Inlet.
Union – 25 minutes north
An artist’s community with boutique lodging, Alderbrook Resort, and some of the best views of the Olympic Mountains across the canal.
Shelton – 20 minutes southwest
The Mason County seat with shopping, dining, and local events. Explore museums, parks, and the historic downtown district.
Tahuya – 25 minutes southeast
A favorite for off-road trails, camping, and forest adventures. Great for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Hoodsport – 35 minutes north
A classic Hood Canal stop along Highway 101, known for its dive shops, seafood shacks, and nearby Staircase Trailhead in Olympic National Park. It’s where saltwater meets mountain air — the perfect day trip from Allyn.