Nestled just north of Sequim’s town center, the Sunland neighborhood radiates both its namesake sunshine and a deep sense of history. Through its lush fairways, towering evergreens, and friendly streets like Sunland Drive and Taylor Boulevard, Sunland tells the story of a community shaped by vision, perseverance, and an appreciation for the unique beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer dazzled by the sunshine-dappled lawns, Sunland offers a heritage worth celebrating.
The Origins: From Farmland to Visionary Community
Sunland’s roots stretch back to Sequim’s agricultural beginnings. Before roads and homes, this land was part of a patchwork of dairy and berry farms that capitalized on Sequim’s rare “Blue Hole” microclimate—an area of unusually low rainfall owing to the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains. Early maps from the 1940s show open fields and a scattering of barns between what is now Sequim Avenue and Marine Drive.
The transformation began in the late 1960s, when a group of developers recognized the potential for a residential golf community on the sunny, gently sloping land just north of town. Their vision: create a year-round haven for outdoor lovers and retirees, a place with both recreation and natural splendor. After purchasing the land, the founders surveyed the area along what would become Sunland Drive and set the stage for the neighborhood’s birth.
How Sunland Got Its Name
Sunland’s name is far from accidental. As the story goes, the original developers wanted to commemorate Sequim’s unique sunny climate—a trait that had attracted both farmers and retirees for decades. The name “Sunland” was chosen to honor this perpetual brightness, setting the tone for a neighborhood that would soon be known for its warmth, friendliness, and open spaces.
Key Historical Milestones
Sunland’s development took off in the early 1970s with the establishment of the Sunland Golf & Country Club on Taylor Boulevard—still the neighborhood’s most prominent landmark. The club became not just a center for recreation but a gathering place for the community, offering golf, tennis, and social events that brought residents together year after year.
Other key milestones included:
- The founding of the Sunland Owners Association in the mid-1970s, which provided governance and a shared commitment to maintaining the neighborhood’s charm and character.
- Construction of Sunland Water District in the early 1980s, ensuring reliable access to Sequim’s prized aquifer.
- Gradual development along key roads such as Fairway Drive and Woodcock Road, which expanded the neighborhood’s reach while preserving greenbelt areas.
Notable Landmarks and Hidden Gems
- Sunland Golf & Country Club: Perhaps the most iconic destination within the neighborhood, the club’s verdant course has echoed with laughter, tournaments, and celebrations for over 50 years. The club house, offering panoramic views of the greens and distant mountains, is a favorite venue for both locals and visitors.
- Sunland North Park: Tucked near the northern end of the community, Sunland North Park is a smaller but well-loved green space providing a sanctuary for neighborhood strolls and summertime picnics.
- Sequim Prairie Schoolhouse: While technically just outside the Sunland boundary on Woodcock Road, this historic structure is indelibly linked with the neighborhood’s heritage. The charming white schoolhouse, now restored, stands as a reminder of the region’s one-room school days.
- Community trails: Sunland’s many walking trails meander through woodlands and along tranquil ponds, weaving together pockets of wildlife habitat with residential streets like Hilltop Drive and Foursome Drive.
Evolution Through the Decades
Sunland has matured gracefully over the years. What began as a modest golfing enclave has blossomed into a vibrant, multi-generational neighborhood. Key changes over time include:
- Reliance on active homeowner governance, managed by the Sunland Owners Association, which maintains architectural standards and nurtures community spirit.
- Diverse housing options—From classic ranch homes on Windfair Drive to newer condominiums and duplexes in Sunland North, the neighborhood attracts both retirees seeking tranquility and families drawn to the friendly atmosphere.
- Emphasis on sustainability—Modern Sunland incorporates drought-resistant landscaping and water-wise gardening, reflecting Sequim’s pioneering spirit and respect for its environment.
- Ongoing restoration—From tree-planting initiatives along Leslie Lane to efforts to protect native flowers and birds, Sunland’s residents routinely join forces to preserve the land’s natural charm.
A Place of Connection and Pride
What truly sets Sunland apart, however, is its sense of community. Longtime residents recall Fourth of July potlucks on Sunland Drive, spirited charity golf tournaments, and story-filled evenings at neighbors’ homes. Over the decades, local institutions like the Sunland Women’s Club and the Sunland Garden Club have fostered lifelong friendships and kept civic pride alive.
Neighborhood newsletters brim with announcements—from club meeting dates to the latest news on beaver sightings near the ponds. Throughout the year, residents gather on walking trails or at Sunland North Park, often pausing to watch bald eagles soaring above or to chat about their favorite rhododendron blooms.
Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
Though Sunland continues to grow and adapt, its heritage remains central. Efforts to honor the neighborhood’s past—like oral history projects and the restoration of nearby historical landmarks—create a powerful sense of continuity. New residents, much like those who first gazed out at sunlit fields in the 1960s, are drawn by the promise of belonging to something enduring.
As Sequim evolves, Sunland stands as a shining example of how history and progress can go hand in hand. Its streets, parks, and clubhouse are more than just amenities; they’re living legacies, lovingly maintained and cherished by all who call Sunland home.
Come for the sunshine—stay for the community. In Sunland, both are in endless supply.