One of our favorite getaways from Seattle is Whidbey Island. It’s less than a two-hour drive, but you’ve escaped the mainland and can enjoy the peace and quiet. There is something for every kind of traveler here, including hikes, restaurants, wineries, beaches, and farm stands. We’ve pulled together all of our favorites and recommendations to help you plot out the perfect trip to Whidbey Island.
Whidbey Island Information
“The Rock” is Washington State’s largest island. It is about 37 miles long and 1.5 to 10 miles wide. It’s been home to multiple Native American tribes, including Swinomish, Suquamish, Snohomish, and more. In 1792, Captain George Vancouver explored the island along with Joseph Whidbey and Peter Puget as they began to map out the region.
Today, the island is a great spot to visit for anyone who loves being near the sea, enjoying mountain views, and slowing down for a bit of island life. It’s an escape that is popular with artists and nature lovers. It’s home to six state parks and numerous other beaches and beautiful destinations.
Oak Harbor is the largest town on the island. It is home to all the major chains and shopping you would need. It’s also home to a Naval Air Station. The rest of the island is scattered with green space, small fishing towns, and beautiful long beaches.
How to Get to Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is accessible from three different points. You can drive from mainland Washington State by taking Highway 20 west from Interstate 5. There are also ferries running from Mukilteo (just north of Seattle) to Clinton (on the south end of the island) and Port Townsend (out on the Olympic Peninsula) to Fort Casey (near Coupeville.)
We recommend driving north out of Seattle to Highway 20 and then driving the entire island from north to south. That allows you to save some money on the car ferry and see everything. You’ll pay just one way and still get to enjoy time on the water. The ferry line can back up during popular travel times. You can also check the WSDOT cameras to see how long the line is.
You can also make this part of a longer road trip and come from North Cascades National Park which is also on Highway 20 to the east.
Pit Stop on Fidalgo Island
Fidalgo Island is just north of Whidbey and is attached by Deception Pass State Park. It’s a popular stopover when people are heading to the San Juans and taking the ferry out of Anacortes. There are a few spots that we rarely skip when we
Lopez Island Creamery
The cookies and cream flavor from this brand is definitely in my top three ice creams of all time. You can stop at the Factory Store from 12 pm to 7 pm every day and pick up a pint or five of your favorite flavors.
Cap Sante Park
Anacortes is an interesting little town with a nice little strip of restaurants and shops. What I loved even more than Main Street was the calm waters off of Cap Sante Park. We put our kayaks in there and did an early morning paddle (if you want kayaks that are super easy to bring along for a day trip, consider the Oru Kayaks that fold up and fit in our car.)
Mount Erie
This is a must-stop because the views are unbeatable. You can hike to the top using one of the many trails, or you can wind up the narrow road in your car for a quick pit stop. You’ll be able to spot all the surrounding islands and waterways. On clear days, you’ll get views of Vancouver Island, BC, Mount Rainier, and both the Cascade and Olympic Mountain Ranges.
A List of Our Favorite Places on Whidbey Island
Alright, now we are on to the main event, Whidbey Island. These spots are listed from North to South to help you plan your adventure.
Deception Pass State Park
This state park has been ranked the number one Washington State Park on TripAdvisor for multiple years, and once you’ve been there, you’ll understand immediately. There’s a dramatic waterway that splits Fidalgo and Whidbey islands. There are often Orcas and other marine life spotted from the shores. There are multiple campgrounds and hiking trails throughout the park, plus a beautiful lake that sits just a few yards from the Puget Sound.
If you plan to visit more than one Washington State Park, grab an annual pass, and you can cruise in and out of all these parks and save some money.
Historic Coupeville
If you loved the movie Practical Magic, you’ve seen this town featured. Coupeville is a small town on Penn Cove. Front Street has a line of adorable shops and great seafood restaurants. Pop into Madrona Blossom, Meet Market, Kingfisher Bookstore, and Lavender Wind. If you want more history, visit the Island County Historical Museum or check out the exhibits out on the Coupeville Wharf.
Ebey’s Landing
Once you’re ready for an easy but stunning hike, head to Ebey’s Landing and do the Bluff Trail. It goes along the bluff overlooking Puget Sound. Circle around Perego’s Lagoon and then head down to the waterfront for the walk back. It’s a nice loop with beautiful scenery. Some interesting 19th-century buildings are nearby, where you can learn more about the park’s history.
Rhododendron Park
In the middle of the island, you can escape into the trees at Rhododendron Park. This county park has picnic areas, trails to explore, and ball fields. It’s dog-friendly, so you can bring along your pup for some woodland strolls.
Hidden Beach
This beach is perfect if you want to escape crowds. You’ll sometimes spot some whales out in the water. It’s a great spot to bring a picnic and just sit for a while enjoying the breeze and views.
Greenbank Farm
This little farm stop is one of our favorites on the island. There are walkable fields and nice views of the surrounding lands and waters. Pop into the barn and shop local cheeses, jams, wine, craft beer, and Whidbey pies. Grab a table under the pergolas covered in vines and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Rocket Taco
Freeland has a collection of shops and restaurants right off the main highway through the island. If you need to restock on supplies or fill your gas tank, it’s an easy stop. We almost always stop at Rocket Taco for fish tacos. The back patio is dog-friendly and there is a convenient parking lot out front. You’ll find a small building next door that is home to Whidbey Island Ice Cream Co, but the scoop shop is closed. Hopefully something similar will move into that space so you can easily grab dessert at the same time.
Double Bluff Beach
Our dog’s favorite on Whidbey Island is Double Bluff Beach. Dogs can run off-leash here and splash in the water. The beach faces south, so on a clear day, you’ll see Rainier in the distance and possibly even spot some passing whales and marine life. Even if you don’t have a dog, you can enjoy the shallow beach area and spread out with tons of space for a blanket and a nice beach read.
Langley
My favorite town on Whidbey Island is Langley. It has around 1,000 residents and a main street similar to Coupeville. The biggest reason that this town is higher on my list is the trees. Langley seems to have bigger, older trees around the town center than Coupeville. Stop in for fantastic pizza at Village Pizzeria, watch a show at the Clyde Theater, and sample some wines at Ott & Hunter. If you are craving oysters and seafood, stop at Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar. The town is packed with bed & breakfasts and historic inns. Plus, it isn’t too far from the ferry back to the mainland. And if you hear a bell ringing when wandering downtown, it means someone has spotted a whale, and you should quickly make your way to the water.
Spoiled Dog Winery
Tucked away in the woods outside of Langley is Spoiled Dog Winery. It’s one of the prettiest spots to enjoy a glass of wine. The vineyard has covered gazebo areas. Everything is family and dog-friendly and you can bring in outside food to enjoy a picnic lunch while sampling wine.
Whidbey Island Distillery
The final spot on Whidbey Island is Whidbey Island Distillery. If you’re staying on the island, you can stay for a cocktail. We usually grab a bottle or two to bring home. They specialize in fruit liqueurs like blackberry, boysenberry, and raspberry. They are my favorite to add to some sparkling water over ice at home for a summer cocktail. The tasting room is open 11 am to 5 pm daily and you can sample before you purchase. It’s located near the winery and close to the south end of the island near the ferry.
Where to Stay on Whidbey Island
Captain Whidbey
This beautiful hotel is on the north end of the island near Coupeville. Once you arrive, you might not want to leave the property. There’s a stunning restaurant on site, so even if you don’t snag a room, you can stop by and scope it out for next time. Choose between cottages and the main lodge, but either way, you’ll be just steps from the water. Book here to find a good deal.
The Inn at Langley
Stay right on the water and never miss a whale sighting when you hear the bell at the Inn at Langley. It’s tucked on one side of downtown, so everything is walkable. And you cannot beat a 9.8 customer rating. Check rates and book your stay in Langley here.
Airbnb or Vacasa Rentals
The island has all kinds of vacation rentals available if you want to stay for a longer time or want access to a kitchen and more privacy. We’ve had great luck with rentals on the island, but sadly, none of the spots we’ve stayed in are still available, so I don’t have any specific spots to recommend.
Camping in the State Parks
Washington State Park campgrounds are wonderful. If you want to really enjoy the outdoors, consider bringing your tents and camping supplies and booking a spot at Deception Pass or South Whidbey State Park. You can’t really go wrong unless you hate enjoying the fresh air and the affordable price tag of a campsite.
Final Thoughts on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is one of the best day trips or quick getaways from Seattle. In one 30-mile stretch, it encapsulates everything wonderful about the PNW. Whether you want to fish, relax, sample local flavors, or hike, you’ll find a spot that you love on Whidbey Island. Just writing this has me checking availability at Captain Whidbey. Let us know if you have any questions or recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whidbey Island can be explored in a day from Seattle, but it’s best if you spend a weekend so you can take your time and enjoy.
Dogs are welcome in many places on Whidbey Island. Take your pup to Double Bluff Beach, Spoiled Dog Winery, and Greenbank Farm.
On Whidbey Island, I like staying in Langley or Coupeville because the towns are incredibly walkable. Both are close to so many amazing spots.
Highway 20 connects Whidbey Island through Fidalgo Island, so it’s easy to drive there. You can also drive on the ferry.
