SUP, Summer?! Adventures in Port Washington, WI
A weekend adventure in Port Washington, WI, a charming harbor town on the fresh coast
“I spent a lot of time touring around Oregon. Port Washington reminded me so much of Astoria, Oregon and Lake Michigan feels like the ocean, without the salt. Same look and feel, it was very cool. You can go surfing, standup paddle boarding, fishing and biking. If you’re into the outdoors you can have a long weekend there and do it all!”
Surfing without the lineup? Biking without the traffic? Port Washington, Wisconsin offers up serious outdoor adventures centered around a delightfully accessible town. Just a 40 minute drive from Milwaukee or 2 hours north of Chicago, this walkable harbor town features speakeasies, gastropubs, and fine dining alongside waterfront parks. Treat yourself to an adventure packed weekend of hiking, biking, fishing, and surfing paired with the culinary delights in one of the best harbor towns on Lake Michigan.
Day 1: Hiking and Craft Food
Take the Bluff trail to a 100 foot high lookout with panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
Kick off your weekend of adventure with a leisurely ½ mile hike at Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve on your way into Port Washington, WI. We recommend you take in the scenic beauty of the 73-acre preserve by starting on the Lions’ Den trail and connecting that to the Bluff trail which features a 100 foot high lookout with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Afterward, check into your room at Harbor View Inn, a centrally located hotel with newly remodeled rooms. The staff served up a warm welcome and we were treated to a basket of local cheeses, wine, popcorn and beef jerky.
Sip your way into the Port Washington culinary scene by visiting Inventors Brewpub, perched on a hill and offering a variety of craft beers. Indulge in their renowned Edison IPA or opt for the Double IPA for something stronger.
Pro Tip: North Beach Park is just steps away if you’ve got some time to kill before dinner.
Fork & Tap’s unique sandwiches combine hearty pita-like tacos with scrumptious fillings.
For dinner, head to Fork & Tap, conveniently located near your hotel, and savor their thick flatbread tacos. The fresh and affordable menu offers options for all tastes for right around $20 per person.
Day 2: Harbor Views and Charter Fishing
“I grew up in Milwaukee and have been to a few places like Door county, Wisconsin Dells, Eu Claire… this trip opened my eyes on how you can go somewhere that’s more like a stay-cation and have some laughs for a few days and feel like you’re totally on vacation. I was pleasantly surprised at what Port Washington has to offer. ”
Java Dock has something for every appetite; try the gluten-free breakfast sandwich.
Start your morning at Java Dock Cafe, a friendly spot with a sophisticated selection of Portland coffee brands and just a few steps from the hotel. They’ve also got you covered if you have food allergies with something for every appetite; try the gluten-free breakfast sandwich. From here you’re well positioned for a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the Harbor area.
Explore the sister waterfront parks: Rotary Park and Coal Dock Park for some picture perfect boat, bird and people watching. Port Washington Avian Sanctuary is also adjacent for a serene bird watching experience in the heart of the Harbor. This time of year (early May) thousands of seagulls were assembling for bait season. Before heading to lunch, make sure to check out the Breakwater Light, the guardian of one of Lake Michigan's best marinas.
Feeling peckish? Grab an exceptional sandwich at Dockside Deli. Their signature, house-made pastrami sandwich is delectable and a second favorite is their flavorful smoked turkey. Half sandwiches are also available, allowing you to sample different flavors but don’t be bashful about ordering two sandwiches (like we did!).
Looking or a fishing charter? Set off with Captain Red at Nicky Boy Charter Fishing.
A must-do for any Port Washington adventure is charter fishing for Coho salmon. A lifelong resident, Captain Red at Nicky Boy Charter Fishing puts on an excellent charter. Expect to come home with at least one fish and a deeper knowledge of the town. It’s common for everybody to catch their max for the day and if you’re traveling with family, a springtime charter means the fish are still small enough for your kiddos to reel them in. A fishing license can be purchased onsite and they’ll even clean the fish for you.
Schooner Pub is a fisherman favorite; sip a refreshing cider and take in the incredible waterfront views. If you’ve got some more walking in you, explore downtown Port Washington and seek out its collection of pre-Civil War buildings.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend you check out the Port Washington Visitors Center. Grab a map to help you easily navigate the area and immerse yourself in the town's charm.
We won’t judge you making a(nother) stop at Inventors Brewpub to enjoy a pre-dinner drink before heading to Pliers, an old-school steakhouse known for its tenderloin filet. Indulge in a complete steak dinner accompanied by soup, salad, and coleslaw for ~$50 per person, with tip.
If you’re looking for a hearty meal, Pliers does steak right.
Day 3: Surf, SUP, Bike
The Daily Baking Company sells out early, so beat the crowds!
Start your morning at the Daily Baking Company, a popular spot offering delicious pastries and breakfast options. The hip and modern atmosphere, coupled with great coffee, makes it the perfect place to fuel up. Arrive early to secure your one of the small batch pastries, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Visit The Board Shack surf shop, a local gem, and rent surfing or stand-up paddleboarding gear. Give them a call to check the surf reports and decide to surf or SUP based on the weather. The owners are local, super knowledgeable and friendly. They’ve recently noticed an influx of Californians coming to surf the Fresh coast; great waves with no lineup. You can put in at either the North Beach or South Beach; but the North Beach Park is recommended to take advantage of the parking lot just steps from the water.
Next, dry off and check out the speakeasy vibe and delectable food at Steerage. This hidden gem, recommended by the surf shop owner, offers a unique dining experience. You’ve got to order a Wisconsin old fashioned and explore their Sunday brunch menu featuring German pancakes and traditional Irish breakfast options.
The Ozaukee Interurban bike trail leaves Port Washington heading both north and south
Finish your weekend adventure with a mellow, 40 minute scenic bike ride along the Ozaukee Interurban Trail to Sahale Ale Works (try the Graped Crusader for a refreshing post-ride beer). The leisurely bike ride back to your hotel will give you time to reflect on the incredible weekend in Port Washington.
With open roads and plenty of activities to occupy your mind, it’s no surprise that even a short weekend in Port Washington feels like a true vacation.
“Such a great weekend getaway. I truly felt like we were on vacation and were only 40 minutes away from home. I think it’s a perfect date destination!”
