Sequim (pronounced Skwim) means “quiet waters” in the native language of the S’Klallam tribe, a perfect name for this charming community nestled between the blue waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains.
In fact, the sun shines here more than anywhere else in western Washington! The “rain shadow” created by the craggy 6000-8000-foot peaks of the Olympics protects the Sequim Dungeness Valley from the heavy rains that fall to the East in Seattle and the West in the rain forest. Visitors to the area are surprised to learn that Sequim averages only 16 inches of rain per year—less than Santa Barbara, California. In fact, a small native cactus grows in some parts of the Dungeness River Valley.
Sequim is the center of the North Olympic Peninsula—located midway between the quaint Victorian seaport of Port Townsend and the busy harbor city of Port Angeles. Sequim also serves as a gateway to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge and many trails of the Olympic National Park. In addition, Sequim has become the Lavender Capital of America with more than 50 farms cultivating the fragrant herb. Sequim is also known for its strawberry, raspberry, blueberry and blackberry crops with farms open for U-pick from early June to September. There’s a vibrant
Open Aire Market featuring fresh local farm products each Saturday in the center of town.
Sequim is one of the best areas in the region for quality health care and nearly every medical specialty—including cancer treatment—is available locally. Medical and dental offices are equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment. In addition, many of Seattle’s best hospitals and doctors—such as Virginia Mason, Northwest Allergy & Immunology, and Swedish Hospital—operate satellite facilities here.
Sequim is perhaps the quintessential small-town where kids can still safely ride their bicycles to school. Buildings nearly a century old have been turned into charming shops, bookstores, galleries, and coffee houses. There are lovely parks, public and private golf courses, and bicycle trails. In addition to an indoor lap pool, the Sequim Aquatic Recreation Center (SARC) offers basketball and volleyball leagues, racquetball courts, exercise & weights equipment with personalized trainers, plus a sauna and hydrotherapy pool.
There’s a great public library and education is an important focus of the community. There are two elementary schools, one middle school, and a recently expanded high school campus. In addition, the Peninsula College in nearby Port Angeles offers a wide range of extension courses from digital photography to building willow furniture. With more than 160 service organizations and special interest groups, as well as 20 churches representing major denominations, you can choose from a wide range of community programs, social events, and volunteer activities based on your personal interests and hobbies.
There’s rarely a long line at the Post Office, parking and traffic are never an issue, and people still leave their doors unlocked here. So enjoy daily life at a slower pace and remember—you’re just minutes by air for an evening at the Seattle Symphony or a tailgate picnic at a University of Washington Husky game.
