26 Years & Counting at Alderbrook Resort

This February, we celebrated our 26th anniversary with two peaceful nights at the beautiful Alderbrook Resort & Spa in Union, Washington — and it was exactly the kind of getaway we needed.

From the moment we arrived, the slower pace of Hood Canal took over. We left our furry travel companion, McKenna, at home - but it's good to know that Alderbrook is pet friendly! Our room overlooked the calm waters, and every time we glanced out the window, it felt like the world had politely agreed to quiet down for us. Morning light shimmering on the canal. People wandering on the dock. Even the air felt softer.

We spent both evenings tucked into the resort’s lounge, lingering over delicious dinners and conversation. There’s something about anniversary dinners — you talk about where you’ve been, laugh about what you’ve survived, and dream about what’s next. The cozy atmosphere, warm lighting, and waterfront views made it all feel extra special.

Two nights went by quickly… but not before we squeezed in a full day of exploring.

A Hood Canal Adventure Loop

After our first night, we woke up ready to explore.

Breakfast in Hoodsport

Our first stop was Hoodsport, where we had breakfast at the Tides Family Restaurant. It’s casual, welcoming, and exactly the kind of place you hope to find in a small waterfront town.

The breakfast? Absolutely delicious. No fuss — just hearty, satisfying comfort food served with a smile.

Fueled up, we continued our scenic drive around Hood Canal.

Around the Canal to Belfair & Tahuya

After breakfast, we stopped for reasonably priced fuel at Twin Totems Convenience Store & Fuel Station right there in Hoodsport and then looped back around the canal to head up through Belfair before making our way down the other side of the canal toward Tahuya.

That stretch near Tahuya might have been our favorite part of the day. It was quiet — beautifully, peacefully quiet. Fewer cars. More trees. Occasional glimpses of the water through the evergreens. It felt like we had stumbled into our own private corner of Washington.

We slowed down and just enjoyed being there.

Lakes & Back Roads: Toward Seabeck

From Tahuya, we headed up over the crest toward Seabeck (though we didn’t go all the way in). Instead, we cut back toward Belfair and discovered some lovely lakes along the way, including:

• Panther Lake

• Tiger Lake

There’s something about lake roads — winding curves, reflections through the trees, the feeling that you’re just slightly off the beaten path. By the time we reached the Old Belfair Highway and made our way back into Belfair, we felt wonderfully unhurried.

And then… back to our comfy waterfront room at Alderbrook.

A Perfect Anniversary Escape

Two nights.

A scenic drive.

Quiet towns.

Good food.

Water views.

And 26 years of memories behind us.

Alderbrook gave us the perfect backdrop — relaxing, romantic, and beautifully Pacific Northwest. Hood Canal reminded us how much we love simply exploring together.

If you’re looking for a peaceful Washington getaway filled with scenic drives and cozy evenings, this little corner of the world is worth the trip.

And if you're looking for a beautiful golf course, it's just across the road and up the hill from the resort. Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club is open to the public and has a restaurant.

Here’s to 26 years — and many more adventures ahead!

Whether you are coming from Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia or Gig Harbor (where we live), it is under two hours - and as little as one hour for some routes! Distance to Alderbrook from Tacoma will vary, depending on the route you take.

And if you're coming from Seattle, here are your travel options.