PORT LUDLOW

WELCOME TO PORT LUDLOW

Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Port Ludlow hosts beautiful residential neighborhoods, a boutique waterfront inn, a 300-slip marina that can accommodate vessels up to 200′,  and a championship 18-hole golf course. For those seeking adventure, Port Ludlow offers a variety of activities to enjoy the wonders of Mother Nature. Take a kayak or a stand-up paddle board into the bay and explore the twin islands. Hike or bike some of the 30+ miles of trails and experience the magical views and abundant wildlife.  If it’s a nice walk you’re in the mood for or looking for a place to set down a chair, head to the beach and soak in the views.

Port Ludlow is sometimes known for being a popular choice for retirees due to its tranquil setting and a range of amenities geared towards an active lifestyle.  Enjoy a quiet, peaceful and idyliic lifestyle or keep busy by joining any one of Port Ludlow's 100+ social clubs. Clubs include pickleball, bird watching, photography, walking/jogging, hiking and a performing arts club. Spend your days on the water with your kayak or paddle board or meet your neighbors for a game of tennis. No matter what you decide to partake in you’ll feel great knowing that you have decided to call Port Ludlow home.  

Port Townsend is just a quick 25 minute drive and full of specialty shops, amazing restaurants and enticing bakeries!  Neighboring Chimacum is only 10 minutes away and boasts a variety of farm stands where you can pick up organic produce and grocery shop locally. The Kitsap Peninsula is located just across the Hood Canal Bridge. In Kitsap, you will find the historic town of Poulsbo with a movie theater, boutique shops and waterfront dining options. Just 20 minutes away from the picturesque Kingston Ferry for easy access to Seattle and surrounding areas. 35 minutes to the charming town of Bainbridge Island and the Bainbridge-Seattle Ferry that takes you right into downtown Seattle to enjoy all this gorgeous city offers with walking distance to Seattle Mariner baseball games or take in a Seattle Seahawks football game.  

THINGS TO DO IN PORT LUDLOW

1. Port Ludlow Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf at the Port Ludlow Golf Course, which offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

2. Marina Activities: Explore the marina and engage in water activities such as kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding. You can also charter a boat for a fishing excursion.

3. Hiking Trails: Discover the natural beauty of the area by exploring nearby hiking trails. The Olympic Peninsula has several trails with varying levels of difficulty, offering opportunities for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.

4. Port Ludlow Beach Club: Relax at the Port Ludlow Beach Club, which provides amenities like a pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy leisure activities.

5. Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail: Take a stroll along the Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail, a short trail that leads to Ludlow Falls. It's a pleasant walk surrounded by lush greenery.

6. Port Ludlow Village Shops: Explore the shops and boutiques in Port Ludlow Village for unique gifts, local crafts, and art. It's a charming area to browse and support local businesses.

7. Local Dining: Sample the local cuisine at one of Port Ludlow's restaurants. Many establishments offer fresh seafood and other Pacific Northwest specialties.

8. Art Galleries: Check out any local art galleries that may be showcasing the work of talented regional artists. It's a great way to appreciate the local art scene.

9. Day Trips: Use Port Ludlow as a base to explore nearby attractions such as Port Townsend, known for its Victorian architecture and maritime history, or head to Olympic National Park for a day of outdoor adventure.

10. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for wildlife in the area. Birdwatching is popular, and you may spot eagles, herons, and other coastal birds.
    
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Frequently Asked Questions: Living in Port Ludlow, WA

Port Ludlow is a master-planned resort community that offers a distinct lifestyle on the Olympic Peninsula. Beyond its scenic views and golf course, living here involves a unique "two-club" social structure and a deep connection to the surrounding rural hubs. This FAQ provides the essential logistical details for anyone considering a move to this tranquil coastal enclave.

1. What is the difference between the North Bay and South Bay communities?

Port Ludlow is divided into two main homeowner groups. North Bay residents belong to the Ludlow Maintenance Commission (LMC) and have access to the Beach Club. South Bay residents belong to the South Bay Community Association (SBCA) and utilize the Bay Club. While both offer pools, fitness centers, and social spaces, your specific home location determines which club membership is tied to your property.

2. Where is the nearest full-service grocery store?

While the Port Ludlow Village Store is excellent for immediate essentials and fuel, residents typically drive 10–15 minutes to Port Hadlock for the QFC Supermarket. Many locals also frequent the Chimacum Corner Farmstand (10 minutes away) for locally grown organic produce, artisan meats, and dairy.

3. How do residents access emergency healthcare?

For everyday needs, the Jefferson Healthcare Port Ludlow Clinic is located right in the village. For emergencies or hospital stays, residents typically travel 20–25 minutes to the Jefferson Healthcare Medical Center in Port Townsend. The community is also served by Port Ludlow Fire & Rescue, which has stations strategically placed to ensure rapid response times.

4. What internet options are available for remote workers?

Unlike many rural areas, Port Ludlow has robust high-speed options. Astound Broadband (formerly Wave) provides cable internet with speeds up to 1 Gig, and CenturyLink offers DSL in many neighborhoods. For those in more secluded pockets, Starlink and Verizon 5G Home Internet have become popular and reliable alternatives.

5. Is Port Ludlow a gated community?

Generally, no. Port Ludlow is an open, master-planned community. While it is very private and feels exclusive due to its layout and "end-of-the-road" geography, it does not have a central gate. However, some smaller sub-neighborhoods or "villages" within the community may have their own private entries or extra security measures.

6. Do I need to pay for a separate gym or pool membership?

No, if you own a home within the North Bay or South Bay boundaries, your HOA dues typically include membership to either the Beach Club or the Bay Club. These facilities function as the primary fitness and social hubs for residents, featuring indoor/outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and fitness rooms.

7. Is there public transportation for commuting?

Yes. Jefferson Transit operates the #14 Kingston Express, which stops at the Port Ludlow "Gateway" (the park-and-ride near the entrance to the community). This bus provides a direct link to the Kingston Ferry Terminal, making it possible to commute to Seattle or Edmonds without driving.

8. What is the "Port Ludlow Voice"?

The Port Ludlow Voice is the community’s award-winning, volunteer-run monthly magazine. It is the "bible" for local life, containing information on the 100+ social clubs, local government updates, and community event calendars. It is often the best way for newcomers to find their footing and meet neighbors.

9. How does the Hood Canal Bridge affect local travel?

The Hood Canal Bridge is the primary link between Port Ludlow and the Kitsap Peninsula (Poulsbo/Seattle). It is a floating bridge that occasionally opens for marine traffic or closes during high-wind events. Residents often check the WSDOT app or email alerts before heading out to ensure the bridge is open to vehicle traffic.

10. Where do the utilities come from?

Port Ludlow operates on a specialized infrastructure. Water and sewer services are provided by Olympic Water and Sewer (OWSI), a private utility that serves the resort community. Electricity is provided by the Jefferson County PUD. Because it is a master-planned area, almost all utilities are underground, which preserves the "nature-first" aesthetic and reduces power outages.