Gig Harbor, Washington, was named by Captain Charles Wilkes, commander of the American Exploration Expedition of 1838-1842. Wilkes' crew was charting the area from a gig (a small boat) and a longboat when they sought shelter in the Gig Harbor Bay during a storm. The crew began calling our area "small harbor" and "gig harbor."

Since Captain Charles Wilkes’ expedition, the greater Gig Harbor area has grown to a population of 66,000. Gig Harbor boasts a vibrant economy with inviting accommodations, shops, colorful cultural arts, scrumptious dining, playful recreation, and diverse professional and personal services.

Gig Harbor has simple access being just 10 minutes from Tacoma, 45-minute from Sea-Tac International Airport, and an hour from downtown Seattle. For a more scenic trip to the Emerald City, take the ferry from one of several loading stops, all within an hour's drive of Gig Harbor. The bustling city of Tacoma is just across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Gig Harbor is the gateway to the world famous Olympic Peninsula, one of the best and most exclusive outdoor attractions in the Pacific Northwest.  

Be sure to check out our Gig Harbor Tourism section for to discover what's available in the area for visitors.

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Area Facts