Belfair, WA

Belfair is a small community located in Mason County, Washington state, United States. It is situated on the Kitsap Peninsula, surrounded by the Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains. The history of Belfair is closely tied to the development of the region and its natural resources.

Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the indigenous Skokomish tribe, who lived off the abundant resources provided by the sea, forests, and surrounding land.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the Belfair area. The first European settler was Michael Simmons, who established a homestead in what is now the northern part of Belfair in 1854. The area was initially known as Simmons Landing. Simmons was followed by other settlers, including the Meigs and Leland families, who played significant roles in the community's early development.

The arrival of the Mosquito Fleet, a fleet of small steam-powered vessels, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought increased transportation options to Belfair. This helped expand the settlement and brought prosperity to the area by facilitating trade, tourism, and economic growth.

The community was formally named Belfair after W.J. Moe, who came from Belfair, Iowa in 1889 and opened a trading post in the area. The name Belfair, derived from "Bell Fair," was chosen to honor his hometown in Iowa.

The economy of Belfair heavily relied on the timber industry, with numerous sawmills operating in the region. The abundant forests provided a steady supply of timber, attracting several mills and supporting the local economy.

Over the years, Belfair has grown in population and has witnessed the development of various services and amenities. Schools, churches, businesses, and recreational facilities were established to cater to the growing community's needs.

Today, Belfair is a small but thriving community, with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas. While the timber industry has declined, other sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation, especially fishing and boating, contribute to the local economy.

Belfair continues to be an attractive place for those seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle while still being close to larger cities like Bremerton and Tacoma. Its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical heritage make it a charming place to live, work, and visit on the Kitsap Peninsula.

Theler Wetlands

Explore the beautiful Theler Wetlands with its trails, boardwalks, and birdwatching opportunities.

Belfair State Park

Enjoy picnicking, swimming, hiking, and boating at Belfair State Park, which also offers campsites and a playground.

Gold Mountain Golf Course

Play a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole course located in Belfair.

Skyline Drive-In Theater

Experience a nostalgic movie-going experience at the Skyline Drive-In Theater, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Washington.

Old Belfair Highway

Take a drive or cycle along the picturesque Old Belfair Highway, lined with farms, forests, and picturesque views.

LakeLand Village Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a challenging round of golf at this nearby 27-hole golf course, nestled in the beautiful LakeLand Village community.

Tahuya State Forest

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Tahuya State Forest, which offers miles of off-road trails for hiking, biking, and off-roading.

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

If you're in the mood for a luxurious getaway, visit the nearby Alderbrook Resort & Spa, known for its stunning views, upscale amenities, and relaxing spa treatments.

Belfair Farmers Market

Explore the local produce, crafts, and food vendors at the Belfair Farmers Market, held on Saturdays during the summer months.

Theler Community Center

Attend various events, workshops, and classes at the Theler Community Center, which hosts a range of activities for all ages throughout the year.

Belfair, Washington, experiences a climate classified as temperate marine (or oceanic). It is located in Mason County on the Kitsap Peninsula in the western part of the state. The climate is influenced by the Pacific Ocean, which moderates temperatures and contributes to a relatively mild and wet climate year-round.

Belfair and the surrounding area have cool, damp winters and mild, relatively dry summers. The average high temperatures in December and January range from 45°F (7°C) to 48°F (9°C), while the lows can drop to around 35°F (2°C) to 39°F (4°C). Snowfall is relatively rare, but when it does occur, it is usually light and doesn't last for long.

In contrast, summers are generally mild and pleasant with average highs ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 73°F (23°C) in July and August. The lows during these months can range from 51°F (11°C) to 55°F (13°C). Belfair receives most of its rainfall from October through May, with precipitation decreasing in the summer months. The region experiences about 55 inches (1,400 mm) of precipitation annually.

The oceanic influence from the nearby waters of the Puget Sound and Hood Canal, along with the Olympic Mountains to the west, contributes to the relatively mild winters and cooler summers. The proximity to the water also leads to higher humidity throughout the year.

Belfair and its surrounding area offer a temperate climate suitable for various outdoor activities and are known for their lush forests, abundant wildlife, and scenic beauty.

Belfair is a small unincorporated community located in Mason County, Washington. While Belfair itself is not divided into specific neighborhoods, it is surrounded by various communities that offer distinct characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the nearby neighborhoods around Belfair:

South Shore

Situated along the southern shores of Hood Canal, the South Shore neighborhood is known for its stunning waterfront properties, peaceful atmosphere, and picturesque views. It offers residents easy access to recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.

North Shore

Located on the opposite side of Hood Canal, the North Shore neighborhood offers similar waterfront living options, with an emphasis on natural beauty and a more remote feel. It is perfect for those looking for a quieter lifestyle surrounded by nature.

Twanoh

Situated a few miles south of Belfair, Twanoh is known for its state park, named Twanoh State Park. The neighborhood offers a mix of wooded areas, waterfront homes, and camping opportunities. The park features a sandy beach, hiking trails, and a boat ramp, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lynch Cove

East of Belfair, Lynch Cove is a rural neighborhood dotted with farms and residential properties. Its location offers proximity to the Alderbrook Resort & Spa, a renowned luxury waterfront resort that provides a golf course, marina, dining, and recreation amenities.

Allyn

Located northeast of Belfair, Allyn is a larger community featuring a range of services, including grocery stores, shops, restaurants, and medical facilities. Allyn is also known for its marina, which serves as a gateway to the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, making it a popular spot for boating and water activities.

These neighborhoods, while distinct, all benefit from the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the Belfair area provides. Whether residents prefer waterfront living, rural landscapes, or convenient amenities, Belfair and its surrounding neighborhoods offer a variety of options to suit different preferences and lifestyles.