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.

Old Pine: Cozy & Rustic Cabin on the Sound

The Cabin Vibes at Old Pine can’t be captured in photos. Our family’s humble waterfront cabin is the perfect getaway. Walk to Tolmie State Park, enjoy magical views of Puget Sound, and only 15 minutes from downtown Olympia. You’ll love the coziness, trees, comfy beds, views, and of course the legendary outdoor clawfoot bathtub. Whether you’re seeking quiet reflection and respite, quality family time, or a romantic getaway, you’ll find yourself wanting to return here. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️All are welcome.

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!

The Library

Welcome to the French Library, an all inclusive, stand alone, luxurious King Suite guest cottage, sister unit to The French Country Cottage. Wake up in the shadow of 150+ year old French doors repurposed as a headboard from the Villa Menier in Cannes, France and antique books from the estate of James A. Moore, developer and builder of The Moore Theatre in Seattle…open concept loft has been elegantly restored and remodeled to feature every modern amenity…ask about our long term stay options!

Cozy Cabin Nestled in Vashon’s Huckleberry Woods

Charming 2BR cabin retreat on Vashon Island, secluded enough that at night the only sounds you'll likely hear are the occasional calls of the resident owls, yet less than 15 minutes from the cafés, shops, and bustle of Vashon town. Sleeps 4 comfortably, with fully equipped kitchen, a large deck and serene views into the surrounding woods we call the huckleberry forest, where you can pick berries from early summer through fall. Book now for the ultimate nature reset in this handcrafted gem.

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.

Sunset Lagoon Retreat with guest only Seafood Farm

Sunset Lagoon Retreat is located on a private island in the Puget Sound of Washington. Enjoy your own private beach, paddle boat, kayaks, row boat, seafood filled lagoon, & spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains all framed in a different Sunset every evening. Outdoor activities to experience without leaving your retreat. How about fresh oysters, mussels or clams for dinner from your own seafood farm? Our place is good for couples, solo adventurers, families and sea food lovers.

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.

Beautiful Oasis Getaway

Beautiful home right on the waters of the Salish Sea (Puget Sound)! Come to this beach cabin to relax, enjoy the gorgeous scenery, kayak, swim, or walk along the beach, and let your worries drift away. Located on Case Inlet's secluded Rocky Bay. This gorgeous cabin is packed full of fun and amenities! It's a destination in its own right. You won't want to leave. Well behaved pets are welcome. Super friendly hosts that will answer any other questions. Enjoy!