Cooper Point

Nestled between the tranquil waters of Budd Inlet and Eld Inlet, the Cooper Point peninsula is one of Olympia’s most storied residential areas. The peninsula was charted and named in 1841 by the U.S. Exploring Expedition under Charles Wilkes, appearing on early maps as Point Cooper, in honor of expedition armorer John Cooper. It was named alongside neighboring Eld and Henderson Inlets in that same survey. While the area’s early years were defined by agriculture and timber, including orchards along its slopes, it has since evolved into a premier community that keeps a deep connection to its natural roots. Today the peninsula is celebrated for its lush landscapes and its ability to offer a peaceful atmosphere while remaining just minutes from downtown Olympia.

A defining feature of the community is the Olympia Country and Golf Club, founded in 1917. The club relocated to its current home on Butler Cove in 1925, and its course was laid out by Walter G. Fovargue, one of the original founders of the PGA. This historic club has served as a central social hub for generations, offering an 18-hole course that winds through mature evergreens with stunning saltwater views. Nearby, The Evergreen State College adds to the area’s appeal with its 1,000-acre campus and a popular network of forest trails that lead through native scenery to over 3,000 feet of shoreline along Eld Inlet.

Living on Cooper Point provides a blend of history, recreation, and natural splendor. The winding roads lead to properties ranging from charming cottages to modern waterfront estates, all enjoying the quiet beauty of the South Sound. Whether you are spending a morning on the historic fairways or exploring the hidden beaches at the end of a forest trail, the peninsula offers an authentic Pacific Northwest experience. It remains a timeless destination where the legacy of the region’s pioneers continues to define a lifestyle focused on community, history, and the water.