Gig Harbor, Washington
Henderson Bay Historic Log Cabin
Restored 1948 waterfront log cabin with kayaks & beach access
The Home
Restored 1948 waterfront log cabin with kayaks & beach access
Step into a piece of Pacific Northwest history at this beautifully restored 1948 log cabin on Henderson Bay's serene shores. This architectural treasure blends authentic charm with modern family comfort, featuring a cozy kids’ loft and shared kayaks. Follow the steps to the beach for kayaking and beachcombing, then gather by the fire pit for soaring eagles and sunset views. Just minutes from downtown Gig Harbor, 'Seaside Cabin' is the perfect retreat for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Welcome
A note from your hosts
Dear Guests, Welcome to our historic cabin — a peaceful retreat where you can unwind, explore, and experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This cozy home sits between turquoise coastal waters and lush evergreen forest. Within a 10-minute drive, you can be in downtown Gig Harbor enjoying the iconic waterfront, views of Mount Rainier, the farmers market, and some of the best local food and artisan shops. Or you can head toward the endless forest trails for hiking and quiet reflection. Don't forget to enjoy our private steps down to the waterfront. Depending on the tide, you may be able to stroll along the beach at low tide or take out the kayak and glide across the water at high tide. If you choose to simply relax in the backyard, you'll be in good company. Our resident bald eagle family of five often soars overhead, curious deer wander by, and seagulls and herons may fly by to greet you with their calls. Friendly nature truly comes alive here. We hope you enjoy your stay and the tranquility this special place offers. — Bill and Liping
Self check-in
Check yourself in with the keypad.
Beachfront
Private beach access on Henderson Bay.
Pacific Northwest history
Beautifully restored 1948 log cabin.
The space
SHARED AMENITIES - Waterfront w/ seating, beach access - 4 kayaks - EV charger OUTDOOR LIVING - Upper-level patio, gas fire pit - Grill, water views - Deer & bald eagle sightings INDOOR LIVING - Smart TV, board games, books - Gas fireplace - Dining table - Washer, dryer - Central heating - Beach towels KITCHEN - Electric stove, oven, dishwasher - Keurig coffee maker (starter coffee provided) - Toaster oven, microwave - Cooking basics, spices, dishware & flatware ACCESSIBILITY - 2-story cabin, 2 steps for entry - Bedroom/bathroom on 1st floor PARKING - Shared carport (2 vehicles, left side) - Street parking (2 vehicles)
The Story
A historic Pacific Northwest cabin
Built in 1948 by skilled Scandinavian-American craftsmen Austin Austin & Erickson, this cabin is a rare surviving example of vertical-log construction in the Pacific Northwest. While log construction traces back thousands of years to Scandinavia and northern Russia, vertical-log homes were far less common than traditional horizontal log cabins — making this one architecturally unique. Why It's Considered Historic • A rare surviving example of vertical-log construction • Built by known local craftsmen (Austin Austin & Erickson) • Retains original architectural elements • Sits on one of the early developed stretches of Henderson Bay • Reflects the mid-century Gig Harbor waterfront lifestyle In Gig Harbor, many similar cabins have been replaced by modern homes — making this one increasingly unique. Architectural & Historical Features • Vertical log walls (distinctive and labor-intensive) • River rock fireplace — a hallmark of 1940s–1950s cabin architecture in the Puget Sound region • Composition roof (updated over time) • Rough-in wine cellar themed basement — thoughtful original design Built during a period when Gig Harbor was still a small fishing and logging community, this cabin was likely used originally as a family cabin, fisherman's retreat, or summer home. Given the post-WWII era, many such cabins were built by returning servicemen or local craftsmen using timber from nearby mills.
Where you'll sleep
Sleeping arrangements
Bedroom 1
1 queen bed
Bedroom 2
1 queen bed
Living room
2 single beds + queen sleeper sofa
- No smoking
- No pets allowed
- No events, parties, or large gatherings
- Additional fees and taxes may apply
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
- This 2-story cabin requires 2 steps for entry. There is a primary bedroom, a sleeper sofa in the living room, and 2 full bathrooms on the 1st floor. There is a bedroom and a loft space with 2 twin beds on the 2nd floor
- The waterfront requires 150 steps to access
- The property does not offer air conditioning, as is common for most houses in the Pacific Northwest region
- Your safety matters. This property features a Ring doorbell camera on the front door facing the exterior front entry. The camera does not look into any interior spaces. The camera actively records video and sound when motion is detected or when the video doorbell button is pressed
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