Manitou Beach & Murden Cove Neighborhood Overview

The Manitou Beach and Murden Cove area occupies a serene stretch along the northern shore of Murden Cove, just west of Rolling Bay. This coastal neighborhood is beloved for its breathtaking Puget Sound views, expansive water vistas of downtown Seattle, and striking views of Mount Rainier.

Homes here are a mix of timeless, low-bank waterfront retreats and quaint, forested residences tucked into the cove’s lush terrain. A standout property at 9788 Manitou Beach Dr NE offers walk-out beach access, complete privacy, and sweeping skyline views — truly a rare “beachfront on Murden Cove” opportunity.

This neighborhood invites a laid-back, nature-centered lifestyle. Residents often launch kayaks or paddleboards from the beach, soak in the views, or enjoy peaceful evening walks along the shore. Despite the calm, the area feels very connected — Rolling Bay is just a short trip away, making access to shops, dining, and the rest of the island very convenient.

The community also has a rich sense of place: Murden Cove is steeped in history (once considered as a crossing point for a cross-sound bridge), and old map names like “Murden’s Cove” reflect its deep roots. Yet even as the neighborhood evolves, it remains committed to preserving its natural shoreline and quiet maritime character.

📍 Points of Interest in & Around Manitou Beach / Murden Cove

• 🏖️ Manitou Beach Open Space — A small public beach area with dramatic views, perfect for launching kayaks or relaxing by the water.

• 🛶 Water Recreation — Calm waters of Murden Cove make it ideal for paddleboarding, canoeing, or kayaking.

• 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints — Along Manitou Beach Dr, you get panoramic vistas of Seattle’s skyline, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound.

• 📜 Neighborhood History — Murden Cove was once almost chosen as the western terminus for a cross-Sound bridge, and area has relics of its maritime past, including WWII-era structures.

• 🌊 Sea-Level Rise Concern — Per recent city climate assessments, parts of Manitou Beach Drive are identified as vulnerable to future sea-level rise, making shoreline planning an active concern.

🎓 Schools Serving Manitou Beach / Murden Cove

This neighborhood is part of the Bainbridge Island School District (BISD). Based on local school boundary information, here are the most likely schools for families living here:

• Elementary (PK-4):

  • Captain John Wilkes Elementary School provides local schooling in this area.

• Intermediate (Grades 5–6):

  • Sonoji Sakai Intermediate School

• Middle (Grades 7–8):

  • Woodward Middle School

• High School (Grades 9–12):

  • Bainbridge High School

  • Eagle Harbor High School — BISD’s alternative / independent-study option

The Manitou Beach & Murden Cove neighborhood is a tranquil waterfront haven, where the rhythms of the water set the pace of life. With spectacular views of Seattle, a peaceful shoreline perfect for paddling and wildlife watching, and a strong connection to the island’s history, it’s a community that feels both timeless and intimate. Ideal for those drawn to coastal serenity and a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle — all while staying close to the heart of Bainbridge Island.