Places to stay near Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Point Ruston Cozy Cottage

Cozy Cottage Near Point Ruston Waterfront Welcome home! Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a family adventure, our cozy cottage is the perfect spot. Just minutes from the vibrant Point Ruston, you'll have easy access to shopping, fine dining, entertainment, the Point Defiance Zoo, and more. Celebrating something special? Let us help you make it memorable—we’re happy to accommodate special requests. Fully furnished and ready for relaxation, our cottage is your perfect home away from home.

The Overwater Bungalow at Sundance

Beach homes are fun, but take things a step further and immerse yourself with 270-degree views of the fjord at this historic boat house. A secret passageway leads to a speak-easy-style bedroom, and then down to a private hot tub where you can soak while watching the sun set over Olympic National Park. Big Beef Spit is a five-minute walk away. A neighboring guest house and caretaker’s cottage are also both available for rent. **Please note that the loft bedroom gets chilly during cold weather.

Spacious 46' Yacht: Luxury, kayaks, walk to town

Blue Goose is located at the historic Babich-Bailey Netshed, within easy walking distance of all Gig Harbor has to offer. Use the kayaks to paddle around Gig Harbor--or paddle to the Tides Tavern or Anthony's seafood for lunch! Complete with two en suite staterooms, a cozy living room, and a view of sunsets and Mount Rainier! Please read the "Guest access" section for property use restrictions. By booking you are accepting the Liability Waiver listed under the "Other details to note" section.

Spectacular Waterfront and Mountain Views

Wake up to stunning water, mountain & sunrise views in this peaceful Waterview retreat. Watch sailboats, wildlife & trains pass by from your cozy indoor or outdoor space. Located in the sought-after Waterview area, you'll enjoy excellent walkability to the waterfront trail, Point Ruston, shops & restaurants. Enjoy a well-stocked kitchenette, free self-serve laundry, and private entrance. Free on-site & street parking. No street lights = magical stargazing nights! Pets/parties not allowed.

Point Defiance/Ruston; extra clean, self check in!

Nestled between city and nature, Pt Defiance Quarters overlooks the Puget Sound at the entrance to 5 mile drive. Enjoy coffee on the covered porch while watching the ferry come in! Unwind in this bright, spacious studio, sleeping in the cozy, queen size bed. Less than a mile away you’ll find the Pt Ruston waterfront – enjoy a movie, eat, shop, play. An even shorter walk in the other direction will take you to our award winning zoo, beautiful rose and dahlia gardens, and peaceful duck pond.

Walkable Harbor Escape * Modern 2 Br Getaway

Experience the best of Gig Harbor from this beautifully designed retreat just a short walk to the downtown waterfront. Stroll to local dining, boutiques, marinas, and year-round community events, then return to a thoughtfully curated home with elevated interior design and comfortable modern finishes throughout. Perfect for relaxing or entertaining, the outdoor spaces include a private yard, BBQ grill, and hot tub — ideal after a day exploring the harbor. A perfect blend of style and location!

LakeFront-Dock-Hot Tub-Game Room-A/C-Fire Pit 4

Comfortable King Beds with 2 kinds of pillows Hot tub Air conditioning Private Dock Boat launch 1/4 mile away 54 feet of American lakefront 2 workspaces Fast Wifi Washer Dryer Big garden Tub Endless hot water with an on-demand water heater 2 Gas fireplaces Full Kitchen with cooking supplies plenty of indoor and outdoor beach towels fire pit picnic tables with shade umbrellas Outdoor lounger and chairs Amazing Lake views look for bald eagles, herons, ducks, geese, bunnies and more

NEW Point Ruston/Point Defiance Updated Craftsman!

Experience the best of Tacoma at this newly remodeled, charming craftsman home in N Tacoma. With its central location, you'll be minutes away from top attractions like the Point Defiance Zoo, Point Ruston Waterfront & Proctor District. Discover the only combined zoo & aquarium in the PNW at Point Defiance, witness live glassblowing demos at the Museum of Glass or attend events at the Tacoma Dome. This spot is the perfect launchpad for your Tacoma adventure. Book now and start exploring!

house upon the sand

Once tucked back into the woods, this newly improved 1920s cabin now enjoys a front-row seat to the grandeur of the Hood Canal thanks to a tidal creek that has washed away the sandy soil that once supported the departed trees. This property may prove challenging for individuals with mobility issues. **Pricing is discounted due to ongoing improvements. Tools and materials are kept out of sight, but you may notice some unfinished details. Due to continued progress, appearance may vary.

Walk to the waterfront! The South Sound Suite

Designed to meet all your needs and put your mind at ease, the South Sound Suite offers a relaxing stay just up from the waterfront in Tacoma. This studio is brand new featuring a king bed, kitchen, and loft! Cozy up and stay in or explore. Just a 8 min walk to our neighborhood delightful market and a 15 min walk away is the Pt. Ruston waterfront, a lively, family-friendly destination featuring shopping, entertainment, an indoor public market open daily with local vendors, and dining.

Peaceful Loft Retreat in Historic Victorian

This private loft is designed to feel calm, easy, and thoughtfully prepared from the moment you arrive. Set at the top of a historic 1892 Victorian, it offers a quiet, light-filled space to unwind—perfect for solo travelers, couples, or anyone looking for a peaceful place to land. Guests often tell me they love starting their mornings in the window sitting area with coffee, watching the light come in, or winding down at night in the cozy sleeping space under the vaulted ceilings.

53’ PNW Yacht — L Y L A

The Lyla is a 53' custom boat built in 1968 in the Pacific Northwest. We offer you a stay unlike any other - step back into time for a maritime getaway. Sip your coffee and enjoy views of harbor seals, seagulls, and passing boats while docked at a historic maritime marina at Net Shed No. Fifteen. * We decorate for the holidays! * Pets: Dogs are allowed subject to restrictions and an additional fee. Please review our "House Rules" at the bottom of the page for more information.