Enjoy The Best Whidbey Island, Washington Has To Offer On This 2-Day Road Trip
When was the last time you were able to visit Whidbey Island? Beautiful, mellow, charming, and deceptively large, the island is both a popular tourist destination and an amazing place to live for many Washingtonians. But since travel hasn’t been the same lately, it may have been a while since you’ve been able to cross the Deception Pass Bridge or take the Mukilteo ferry.
You can have a fantastic weekend adventure on Whidbey Island and enjoy it to the fullest, all while keeping current precautions in mind. There’s a lot to explore on Whidbey, but this itinerary is a great way to see some of its highlights in just two days.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Deception Pass State Park is a beloved day trip and camping destination, and the views from the bridge are unparalleled. When you cross, pull over into the parking area and walk out onto the bridge to enjoy them to the fullest.
Next, take a little time to explore historic downtown Oak Harbor.
Oak Harbor is a charming, family-friendly town, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy. The Blue Fox Drive-In Theatre is also here, although it's only open in the warmer months.
Coupeville is a delightful place to end your day and find something delicious for dinner.
Oystercatcher is a cozy fine dining spot with fantastic food and friendly service. If you're visiting with young children, check out Front Street Grill.
Spend night one at the historic Fort Casey Inn -- trust us.
Fort Casey Historical State Park was a military base from the late 1800s until the mid-1940s. Not only is it great to explore this piece of our past, it happens to be located on 10,810 feet of saltwater shoreline on the Puget Sound.
If you imbibe (or if you just like tasty food), check out Blooms Winery in Freeland for lunch or happy hour. This winery and bistro will serve you a delicious meal.
End your day by exploring the always delightful downtown Langley.
Langley is one of the most popular destinations on the island, and for good reason. You'll find shops, galleries, street art, sculptures, beach access, wine and beer tasting, and almost every kind of food imaginable in this one little area.
After your long day, unpack your bag and put up your feet at The Quintessa in Clinton.
The Quintessa is a gorgeous event venue that typically hosts garden weddings and family reunions. But since all the chaos of 2020, they've been renting out their private spaces on Airbnb. Rent The Cottage and enjoy a one-bedroom home with a full kitchen, jetted tub, and peaceful garden views, all for a reasonable rate.
Before you head back to reality, we highly recommend spending a little time at Earth Sanctuary, located near Langley.
This enchanting wooded sculpture garden and nature reserve feels like heaven on Earth. It's only $7 to enter, and it's the perfect place to recharge before leaving the island.
This is a small sample of the many beautiful, enchanting, and delicious things to discover on Whidbey Island. This place will remind you of how lucky we really are to live in Washington.
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
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