Places to stay near Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Industrial Modern view home, walk to waterfront

Incredible views await you! Enjoy watching marine life, ships, passing trains, and wildlife, while lounging with your favorite beverage on the deck, in the four-season porch, or on the outdoor patio. This home is an oasis for relaxation, offering comfortable spaces to unwind and take in the scenery. I welcome respectful guests who will care for the property as their own. This home is ideal for relaxing getaways. While parties are not permitted, respectful groups or small gatherings are welcome.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Mid Century Spa Suite - Dual Shower & Soaking Tub

You’ll feel like you’ve been pulled into a mid century lounge and spa with a cocktail/espresso bar. Get lost in a stunning bathroom with walk-in, side-by-side dual shower heads & extremely deep soaking tub. The master suite has a cozy queen bed and large screen SMART TV & DVD player - along with a mid century desk/office space. The guest room has a twin bed. This owner occupied, 2 bedroom, downstairs suite is located in the North End Tacoma, Proctor & Ruston area.

Wolf Den | Cozy Forest Cabin + Wood-Fired Hot Tub

Experience the natural beauty of Vashon Island from a Walden-inspired Tiny cabin tucked into four acres of lush PNW forest. Just a short ferry ride across the Salish Sea from Seattle or Tacoma, The Wolf Den is the perfect retreat for couples or solo travelers seeking a restorative getaway. After exploring the island's many pristine trails, beaches, and local attractions, unwind in the wood-fired soaking tub and let the calming rhythm of island life rejuvenate you.