Whidbey Island is a great place to wander, to drive around and stop wherever grabs you. You'll want to have a general idea of the things you want to do and the sights you want to see, but relax and plan for spontaneity. Whidbey Island is long but narrow, so you really can't get lost. While on Whidbey Island, you'll discover interesting history, delicious local foods, unique shops and galleries, picturesque gardens and farms, and water, island, and mountain views in every direction. You'll also have the chance to enjoy a full range of outdoor recreation, including hiking, kayaking, and boating.
Deception Pass State Park
View from the Deception Pass Bridge © Angela M. Brown
Stunning views, great hiking, miles of shoreline, and extensive camping facilities make Deception Pass State Park one of the most popular state parks in Washington. The historic Deception Pass Bridge connects Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands; be sure to stop at the viewpoint and walk onto the bridge to take in gorgeous water and forest scenery. Like the bridge, Deception Pass State Park spans the two islands.
Farms, Gardens, & Nurseries on Whidbey Island
Greenbank Farm on Whidbey Island © Angela M. Brown
Agriculture is part of Whidbey Island's heritage; you'll enjoy the pastoral beauty of the island as much as the water and mountain views.
- Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens
You can visit this nature preserve year-round, peak bloom season is around April and May - Greenbank Farm
This historic farm is a destination in its own right, with specialty shops and galleries, a wine shop and tasting room, and outdoor spaces. Be sure to have a slice of Loganberry pie at Whidbey Pies Cafe. - Chocolate Flower Farm
Visit either their farm or their shop in Langley. Or both! - Lavender Wind Farm
Enjoy their fields, special events, and gift shop. - Bayview Farm & Garden
A great plant selection as well as cool home and garden accessories
Deception Pass Tours
Experience Deception Pass from below, rather than above, by taking this boat tour that begins east of the bridge and travels out into Rosario Strait. The scenery is magnificent, the wildlife is amazing, and the history is pretty darn compelling too. Along the open-boat tour you'll have the chance to see blue heron, bald eagles, sea lions, sea otter, and - if you're really lucky - orcas. Deception Pass Tours is a family-run business. Highly recommended.Fort Casey State Park
Admiralty Head Lighthouse © Angela M. Brown
Fort Casey State Park has a lot to offer, so no matter what your taste you're bound to find something fun and interesting during a visit.
- Admiralty Head Lighthouse
This picturesque structure serves as an interpretive center, with exhibits covering the lighthouse and the history of Fort Casey and Puget Sound's "Triangle of Fire." - Historic Gun Batteries
Enjoy a self-guided or guided tour of what remains of this former Army fort. - Camping
First-come, first-served tent sites - Outdoor Recreation
Trails, boat ramps, birding, beachcombing, picnicking, diving, and fishing. - Meetings & Events
Historic officer housing and barracks now serve as accommodations and meeting space for public and private events.
Hiking on Whidbey Island
Whether you like a vigorous hike or a scenic stroll, you'll find many opportunities to walk and wander on Whidbey Island. Here are just a few hiking options:- Deception Pass State Park
With over 4,000 acres of hilly terrain, this gem of the Washington State Parks system has miles of trails. Be sure to walk over and under the bridge. - Fort Casey State Park
Hiking trails wind through the park, along the beach, by the Admiralty Head Lighthouse, and around the old gun batteries. - Ebey's Landing NHR
Trails run through the prairie and along a bluff overlooking Puget Sound. History buffs will enjoy the self-guided walking tour of Coupeville. - Earth Sanctuary
The private nature reserve offers a self-guided meditative tour experience.
Art Galleries & Events on Whidbey Island
Surrounded by natural inspiration, its no surprise that many artists call Whidbey Island home. Artist studio tours and other events for artists and art lovers are held on the island throughout the year. Unique galleries are scattered around Whidbey Island for you to discover during your wanderings. Some of the best art galleries to visit include:- Penn Cove Gallery - fine art and crafts in Coupeville
- Hunter Art Studio - great selection of photography
- Hellebore Glass Studio - glass blowing in Langley
- Greenbank Farm - several galleries on site
Water Recreation on Whidbey Island
View of Sailboats and Mount Baker from Coupeville on Whidbey Island © Angela M. Brown
Whidbey Island has a wiggle-y and twisty shoreline, resulting in interesting coves and harbors. There are also several freshwater lakes on Whidbey Island.
- Boating
Marinas are located at Deception Pass State Park, Oak Harbor, and Langley. Boat launches can be found in many locations along Whidbey's shoreline, including Freeland Park, Possession Point County Park, Coupeville, Cavelero Beach, and Fort Casey. - Kayaking
Kayak rentals and tours are available from the Whidbey Island Kayaking Company (800-233-4319). - Diving
Scuba divers will enjoy the Keystone Underwater Park, the Langley Tire Reef, and the waters at Possession Point State Park.
Island County Historical Society Museum
Island County Historical Society's Museum on Whidbey Island © Angela M. Brown
Located in Coupeville, this museum is devoted to local history. Mammoths and their lives on prehistoric Whidbey Island are the subject of one exhibit. Pioneer history and island transportation are also covered. Be sure to view their film about Ebey's Landing for a greater appreciation of the island's history.
Food & Wine on Whidbey Island
Great food and drink is an important part of any getaway and you'll find plenty of great options on Whidbey Island. Local specialties include Loganberries and Penn Cove mussels. I can recommend the following:Fine Dining
- Fraser's Gourmet Hideaway - Oak Harbor
- Christopher's - Coupeville
- Oystercatcher - Coupeville
- Cafe Langley - Langley
Casual Dining and Sweet Treats
- Toby's Tavern - Coupeville
- Village Pizzeria - Langley
- Island Angel Chocolates - Langley
You also have a chance to appreciate the local bounty at the several different farmers markets on Whidbey Island, as well as at one of the island's wineries or wine shops.
