The first order of business, on this leg of our journey, is a stop for diesel at the Reef Point Marina fuel dock. We were told Racine has the best diesel price in the area.
We haven’t seen this low of a price in a while. When needing 300 gallons, price variance is a big deal!
Port Washington, as you enter, is flanked on the left by a power generation station and on the right by the water filtration center with the downtown area and marina nestled in between. Upon arrival it appears very industrial.
We pass by the Port Washington Breakwater Light which marks the entrance to the first man made harbor in North America. After much dredging, beginning in 1869, the Port Washington Harbor, at 5 3/4 acres in size, was created. Connecting into Lake Michigan, the harbor is protected by man made south and north piers. This breakwater light stands on the north pier. We arrive just in time before a torrential downpour and thunderstorm.
Only 27 miles north of Milwaukee, Port Washington, a city of roughly 12,000, is considered a suburb of Milwaukee. It is a small coastal town with a New England charm. The downtown area includes many local retail shops and restaurants.
Downtown Port Washington
The following day, we take advantage of the nice weather (no smoke or rain) and venture out to the breakwater light.
First you walk the wave and then the plank…
We also head to their public beach, North Beach.
Once at North Beach, we find a set (or two 😉) of steps up to another park.
Our visit to Port Washington provided us with some interesting facts regarding this little city.