One Day in...Whidbey Island, USA

Traveler Profile: Ashleigh, 36, USA

Location: Whidbey, WA, USA

Time of the Year: August

Traveler Goals: Learn about the local history, relax, and unwind.

Sunrise over Seattle casts a golden glow across the city. It was a great way to start a day exploring where Puget Sound meets the Pacific Ocean. Whidbey Island is rich with Washington history and even comes with a few magnificent beaches.

Fellow Traveler’s Tip: Weather on Whidbey Island can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or shine. Dress in layers and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Getting to the Island

Image Credit: Shutterstock / CandyRetriever

Before my exploration of Whidbey Island could begin, I had to get out there to it. First stop: the ferry from Mukilteo. The brisk sea breeze blew a chill through me when I boarded the vessel. Thankfully, it was only a short ferry ride to get to the island.

Fellow Traveler’s Tip: Consider whether you’ll bring a car onto the island or rely on public transportation. While having a car offers flexibility, there are options like the Island Transit bus system if you prefer not to drive.

A Snack to Start With

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Luis Inacio P Prado

When I stepped ashore at Langley, I instantly fell in love with the quaint charm of this adorable little coastal town. The Langley Whale Center was my first stop on the island, its walls were decorated with tales of majestic orcas and graceful gray whales. After leaving the whale center, I strolled along the sea walk and browsed the town’s shops while contemplating which restaurant to go with.

The next pit stop, Greenbank Farm, was not on my itinerary, but the smell of yummy treats drew my attention. The smell of freshly baked pies filled the air as I entered the farm’s café. My mouth was probably watering with anticipation. I ordered a dessert, and with a slice of loganberry pie in hand, I ventured out to enjoy my snack while I took a few moments to appreciate the beauty of the seaside bluff.

Fellow Traveler’s Tip: Whidbey Island has many farm-to-table restaurants and cafes. Sample fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and artisanal products at eateries across the island.

Historically Rich State Park

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jim Schubert

Fort Casey State Park was next on my list of places to visit, with its weathered battlements whispering tales from WWI. Climbing among the ruins of a World War I-era coastal fort was strangely surreal. Next, I ventured over to the town of Coupeville.

Coupeville came with promises of historic charm and culinary delights. As I wandered down Front Street, the town’s fishing heritage was a feature you couldn’t miss when walking along through its quaint streets. A peek inside the historic Coupeville Wharf was like traveling back in time.

Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve was up next, its beauty a testament to the island’s rich heritage. Before heading to Oak Harbor, I grabbed some lunch at The Oystercatcher. They had so many options for fresh seafood it was almost hard to pick just one thing. So, I ordered a few appetizers.

Back to Town

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Steve Lagreca

Oak Harbor was a small town with a welcoming, homely feel, its streets alive with the hustle of island life. The Naval Air Museum offered a glimpse into the island’s military history. Though I must say, I was partial to the Flintstone Park. It was a whimsical escape with concrete replicas of Fred and Wilma’s car.

As the day drew close, I went to Deception Pass State Park, the grand finale of my island adventure. The iconic Deception Pass Bridge stretched out before me. Its graceful arches are a testament to human ingenuity. Standing on top of that bridge, the world seemed to stretch out before me. I bid farewell to Whidbey Island and returned to Seattle.

Key Takeaways

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Tafazul Mattoo

Whidbey Island has a relaxed pace of life, so be sure to slow down and savor the experience. Whether you’re exploring nature, enjoying local cuisine, or simply taking in the views, give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all that the island has to offer.

Tourist Information: whidbeycd.org