Skagit County: Shelter Bay
Danny Hagen grew up in the Shelter Bay house that he now lives in with a family of his own — his wife, Nicole, and their two little ones, Kaysen and Duncan. The Hagens moved into the neighborhood in 2014 because they were about to start a family, and could afford a four-bedroom house in Shelter Bay for the price of a two-bedroom apartment elsewhere. Having grown up there, Hagen knew it would be the perfect place to watch his family grow.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor seeking shelter from stormy seas, or a fresh-faced family hoping to find your first starter home, Shelter Bay may be the perfect Northwest neighborhood for you to hang your hat. The Hagens sure think so.
They love their neighborhood and its small-town charm. They love the tourism, the industry, and the activity happening just across the bridge in downtown La Conner. There’s always something fun to do and something yummy to be eaten. They also appreciate the quality of the La Conner school district, where Hagen coaches basketball and where they look forward to sending their kids in a few years.
Shelter Bay is located just west of historic downtown La Conner, across the Swinomish Channel. The land is owned and leased by the Swinomish Reservation, making Shelter Bay an affordable option for many, like the Hagens. The neighborhood boasts scenic views of the Rainbow Bridge and the Swinomish Channel, the Skagit flats, and majestic Mount Baker.
A stone’s throw from the marina, Shelter Bay is prime real estate for the nautically inclined. Located on the south end of Fidalgo Island, Shelter Bay has marine access to the San Juan Islands and the inner channels of the Puget Sound.
Hagen says Shelter Bay is “a great neighborhood for walking. There’s tons of paths and very low traffic.” Neighborhood amenities include two community swimming pools, one for all ages for the kids, and one for adults only. There’s a nine-hole, par-three golf course, tennis courts, a playground, parks with BBQ pits, and beach access to two private beaches.
On the Market
814 Shoshone Dr., La Conner $399,500 | MLS# 1112769
Asian influences highlight this four-bedroom, four-bathroom home with marina and water views just across the street. Single-level living area features an octagonal living room and a lower level for entertaining. Deck, fireplace, formal dining room and solarium make this place an original. Options include moorage.
STATS
Number of Homes: 829
Average Days on Market: 80
Median List Price: $240,000
Schools: La Conner School District